Residential

Thermal imaging can be used in a residential setting for many different uses. In new homes a thermal audit should be done after taking possession and close to the one year anniversary, to insure there are no underlying deficiencies.  In purchasing an older home a complete thermal scan should be done to accompany a home inspection.

This information can be used to ensure there are no underling issues that cannot be seen with the naked eye. After the purchase the information can be used to improve the efficiencies of the home.

Insufficient or Improperly Installed Insulation 

Frost on walls and windows is a sign of possible missing or poorly installed insulation

Thermal imaging can detect where insulation has slouched over time, was incorrectly installed, or where insulation was never installed to begin with. This information is critical when trying to reduce your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer.

A thermal imaging survey of a new home will leave the purchaser at ease knowing that all of the insulation was properly installed when their home was built. Once the drywall is in place, it is not possible to see whether or not the insulation is in place. Knowing that the insulation is properly installed is of great value to a home owner, not only as an energy savings tool, but also to ensure that you are getting what you are paying for.

Example of missing insulation in corner 

Missing Insulation Bats in ceiling

Heat Loss in Upper Portion of Wall

Moisture

Thermal imaging can detect where moisture is present and where it has been. By using thermal imaging a homeowner can locate the source of the leak and repair it quickly. Also by being able to show the affected areas it greatly reduces the time and money by not have to remove and repair unaffected areas.

Damaged caused by floor drain backing up and flooding basement. The dark area is water that the drywall absorbed from the flood.

Ceiling with Leaking Roof

Example of water damage from a leaking roof.

Pest and Rodent Intrusion

Rodents like mice, rats and raccoons use insulation to make their nests. Leaving voids in walls causing heat loss. They also make trails in walls and attics compressing the insulation reducing its R-value.  Thermal imaging can pinpoint their location in a wall or ceiling reducing the damage that is created in trying to find and remove their nests.

Example of a pest infestation not visible with the naked eye.

Loose or Damaged Electrical Connections

Thermal imaging can locate loose or damaged connections before they became a hazard. An overheated circuit breaker can be an indication of a poor connection or overload circuit. As the breaker and wires degrade over time, the circuit breaker can start to trip with little apparent load, becoming a potential fire hazard. Utilizing thermal imaging to inspect the household electrical system will allow the homeowner to detect these problems and have the necessary repairs completed.

Circuit Box with elevated temperatures

The thermal camera is able to detect an overheated circuit breaker. For a more in-depth inspection the cover can be removed and each connection can be viewed.