Thermal Imaging for Every Toolbox
Twenty years ago, I used a $20,000 infrared camera to
demonstrate cold air technology. Flir
just announced an iPhone infrared accessory for $349. This changes everything.
Infrared visually shows temperature differences. It’s been used for years to identify
insulation programs, help track down roof leaks, and identify electrical
components about to fail (they heat up when approaching failure). At $349, this should be added to every
residential service person’s toolbox. It
will allow service personnel to troubleshoot faster, prevent breakdowns,
provided added credibility by presenting visual proof of issues, and ultimately
boost average tickets.
How Plumbers Can Use Thermal
Imaging
·
Check water heater sediment build up
·
Detect water heater insulation problems
·
Identify potential water heater leaks before
they occur by detecting temperature differences
·
Find slab leaks
·
Identify water pipe locations behind walls
·
Detect stoppage locations in pipes
·
Pinpoint piping and plumbing leaks that may not
be visible to the eye
·
Find water damage that’s not yet visible
·
Detect moisture damage behind tiles
How Electricians Can Use
Thermal Imaging
·
Identify electrical components that are about to
fail and get hotter
·
Detect overheating outlets and light switches
·
Find wiring defects
·
Find electrical shorts
How HVAC Technicians Can Use
Thermal Imaging
·
Find duct leaks
·
Pinpoint coil leaks
·
Identify electrical components nearing failure,
before they fail
·
Check diffuser throw with the help of a screen
held perpendicular to the diffuser
·
Identify points of air infiltration from poorly
sealed doors, windows, and other penetrations of the building envelope
·
Detect when gas insulated windows have lost
their seal
·
Identify insulation problems resulting from water
damage, settling, or simply from new construction mistakes
·
Find cold air drafts
