Are you used to the fact that technology is transforming all aspects of our lives, yet? We bet even if you’re a tech enthusiast, you’ll probably be amazed at this development: Thermal cameras have started a new chapter in the property industry and even for home owners. They are also used for electrical inspections and leak detection,
We researched how these cameras enable you to look after a property more effectively. Something as simple as idetifinig heat lost due to poor window seals or HVAC duct issues can help minimize damage to homes and save home owners thousands of dollars over the life of their home. Here’s how.
How do You Use a Thermal Camera for a Home Inspection?
The name is fairly self-explanatory: A thermal camera is embedded with technology that identifies certain temperatures. It provides you with an image that shows the temperatures of the area it’s aimed at.
The camera scans the infra-red light emitted by objects in the room. This is turned into a temperature pattern or thermogram, seen as a clear, color coded picture.
The different temperatures are shown as different colors so the user can identify where heat is coming from.
But why is heat so important?
Applications
You’ll be surprised how many risks and potential building problems are associated with heat or the loss of heat:
- Mold growing in a corner will emit heat. You can locate it with one of the best IR (infrared) camera units reviewed below, even if it’s inside the walls.
- Looking at temperatures in a room can tell you about energy waste, such as areas not affected by air conditioning, also called thermal bridges.
- Moisture will take longer to cool down than the surrounding areas of a wall or roof. At night you can look for these warmer spots to identify leaks.
- After a home is built faults in walls or roofs can be located with thermal imaging:
- You can visualize airflow
- Air leaks can be detected
- Check how well a roof is insulated
- You can see overheating circuits, fix the wiring and prevent power surges or potential fires caused by overheated outlets or sockets.
- If you suspect problems in your pipes you can locate them behind walls or panelling without damaging the structure. See where the problem is and only open up the wall or roof in that area.
All this thanks to a compact but very advanced thermal camera. The best infrared camera for home inspections can help prevent health problems, but it’s also important to ensure homes and buildings are structurally sound & safe for use.
Things to look for buying a thermal camera
Are you looking for the best infrared camera for home inspectionsfor your own use? Let’s help you pick.
Important: Low vs High Resolution
Here you need to start with the important question: What will you use it for?
Of course, it’s ideal to have high resolution images. This will give you a much clearer idea of where the problem is. However, this means you’ll pay much more than when you pick a lower resolution thermal camera.
The general consensus is that lower resolution machines are more than adequate for use around your home. If it’s simply part of your general maintenance process, don’t spend too much money.