What is Thermal Imaging?

Infrared cameras do not look at objects. They capture the energy (heat) transferred from an object to produce a real time image in different color scheme. In other words, it allows us to see temperatures that are not visible to the naked eye.

Proper training is essential in being able to properly obtain and interpret thermal images. We are proud to be infrared certified!

Here is a partial list of services we can perform with thermal imaging for homeowners, contractors, plumbers and electricians:

Thermal Imaging Services:

Thermal imaging water intrusion

Water Intrusion

The blue areas we see in this roof structure is water intrusion from roof leaks around a chimney due to damaged flashing. While this was not visible to the naked eye, a quick thermal imaging scan can reveal problems that can become major headaches down the road!

Thermal imaging Cold Air Infiltration

Cold Air Infiltration

The use of thermal imaging allows us to ‘see’ where doors and windows do not properly seal. This image shows us where cold air is entering the home around the windows through the wall cavity. If you are looking for ways to save money on your heating and cooling bills, thermal imaging is fantastic tool to help you understand where heat loss is occurring.

Thermal imaging Insulation Efficiency

Insulation Efficiency

This image shows us areas of fallen or settled insulation. This is in an old farm house where blown-in insulation had been added to the exterior walls as an improvement years ago. Especially if you live in an older home, thermal imaging can help determine the location of your major areas of heat loss in your home.

Thermal imaging Electrical Systems

Electrical Systems

Thermal Imaging is an effective way to check for some electrical problems. Sometimes improper wiring will cause a switch or outlet receptacle to be abnormally warm. Thermal imaging is a great high-tech way to see if heated toilet seats work!

Thermal imaging Radiant Heating

Radiant Heating

Many rooms have radiant heating installed. How can your inspector tell if the radiant heating is operating properly? Thermal imaging is the best answer! Our thermal camera can ‘see’ where the radiant heat is located and verify that it is working properly. Thermal imaging is also a great tool to help contractors find broken or leaking heating loops.

Thermal imaging HVAC Ducts & Insulation

HVAC Ducts & Insulation

Our thermal imaging camera shows us if there are any leaks present, which not only could lead to $$$$ being wasted to heat or cool the attic space, but heat loss in an attic can lead to major problems, such as ice dams.

Thermal imaging pipe location

Pipes and/or Leak Location

This home had a finished basement, and no one knew where the water supply pipes were located. A properly trained inspector knows to run either hot or cold water (it depends on the situation) and within minutes the camera was able to show the pipes location. The pipes were nowhere near where anyone expected, and we saved the contractor and homeowner a TON of unnecessary time and money prior to starting this remodel project.

Consultations – Although Infrared Thermal Imaging is a far better diagnostic tool than the naked eye, it does not guarantee 100% accuracy, unless removal or destruction of components can be achieved to validate findings. When possible, other tools are used to verify Thermal Images, but even with these considerations we do not claim to have x-ray vision. Conditions may change and cause the apparent temperature readings revealed in Thermal Images to be different at any given time.