Thermal Imaging


Three Key Reasons You Should Consider Thermal Imaging
Earlier this week, we discussed the problem of water stains and identifying the cause of the problem.
One method to identify potential causes of water leaks and moisture intrusion is to have a professional conduct a thermal imaging inspection.
Thermal Imaging, also known as Infrared Thermagrophy, are visual displays of the amount of infrared energy emitted, transmitted, and reflected by an object. Thermal imaging involves the use of high tech cameras that create pictures of heat rather than light. When used in a situation where there is suspected water intrusion, these cameras help find areas that are not clearly visible to the naked eye.
According to our founder, James C. Watson, thermal imaging is important for three specific reasons:
DETECTING INSUFFICIENT OR IMPROPERLY INSTALLED INSULATION
Thermal imaging can detect hot/cold spots in the wall 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.
In addition, Watson points out that new home buyers should invest in a thermal imaging audit to determine if the insulation has been installed properly. The reason is simple: once the drywall is in place, it is not possible to see whether or not the insulation is properly installed.
MOISTURE INTRUSION / MOLD GROWTH
Thermal imaging will not detect mold, but will detect temperature variations behind a wall to assist in finding cold spots that may indicate a potential moisture or water intrusion issue. Once an area of potential concern is found, moisture meters can then be used to confirm if there is in fact moisture behind a wall. If a moisture problem is detected, then it is important to act quickly to fix the problem to prevent mold!
Detecting where moisture has entered your home will allow for quick repairs in order to stop mold from growing and causing health hazards. Thermal imaging can detect moist areas, allowing the home owner to repair certain areas instead of removing all materials and doing a major overhaul. This will reduce the cost of the repair significantly.
Identifying and removing moisture also stops your structural materials from rotting, which will maintain your home’s structural integrity, keeping your home safe for those who live in it.
LOOSE OR DAMAGED ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
Loose, damaged, or dirty connections can result in heating. As the connection degrades over time, the circuit breaker can start to trip under little apparent load, circuit breakers can fail, or worst of all, a fire can occur. Utilizing thermal imaging to inspect the various electrical connections in your home will allow you to detect these problems and remedy the fault before any damage has occurred.
In summary, thermal imaging is essential if you are considering buying a home and is well worth investing in for your existing home because thermographic imaging cameras are able to detect serious problems the naked eye can’t see, such as: plumbing leaks; air duct; leaks; moisture intrusion; inadequate or non-existent insulation; heating and cooling losses; abnormal heat from an appliance or electrical system; unwanted animals; and poor construction. All of these problems can cause extensive damage to your home, visit https://www.airnowhvac.com/duct-services and get the help you need.