What is a thermal imaging camera and what is it used for?
Thermal imaging cameras use sensors to convert infrared radiation into a visible light picture. As long wavelength infrared radiation passes effortlessly through even the densest smoke and darkness, converting this into a visible picture enables vision where this is not normally possible. The camera does not need visible light to operate so the pictures you get are the same whether in light or total darkness.

What can't you do with a thermal imaging camera?
Thermal cameras cannot see through any materials that absorb long wavelength radiation, such as water or glass. It is this principle that operates in a greenhouse - short wavelength radiation from the sun passes through the glass, but the long wavelength radiation emitted from the objects inside cannot get out. This results in the inside of the greenhouse heating up quickly, even when the sun is not very strong.

How does a thermal imaging camera work?
All thermal imaging cameras require a sensor to detect infrared radiation and convert that radiation into an electrical signal that can be processed and displayed in some format. Sensors integrated into the camera process the electrical signals and display them on either CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) displays.

Does it have to be really cold or really hot to do an inspection?
All that is required is a delta-T of 18 degrees, a temperature difference of 18 degrees between the inside of the building and the outside, winter or summer. 

What should I do to prepare my house for a Thermal home energy audit?

Open all interior doors to conditioned areas

Bring the house to the desired temperature at least two hours before the inspection

In floor heating systems should be circulating at least one hour before and during the inspection

Turn off recessed lights one hour before thermal imaging

Run exhaust fans (bath, kitchen) during thermal inspection (optional)

How much will it cost to have my home thermally inspected?

Double click on "Inspections" for pricing