THERMAL LEAK & IMAGING SCAN TESTING |
THERMAL LEAK TESTING As part of every inspection, I test several critical areas within a house that may be suspect to air leaks that could be allowing conditioned air [cooled/heated interior air] to escape to the exterior - or is allowing unconditioned air [hot or cold exterior air] to enter the house. In either case, energy is being wasted. I utilize a professional thermal leak detector that incorporates infrared sensors to measure surface temperatures and various differentials. If I detect any area(s) of concern that the client may wish to remedy, it will be so noted in my report with accompanying photo highlighting the specific area. Heating and cooling accounts for about 50 percent of your energy usage, but the average house has enough leaks and drafts to equal a 1 sq. ft. hole. Finding thermal leaks can cut down on wasteful spending. My infrared sensor can find potential leaks from wall receptacles, weatherstripping deficiencies, wall/floor plumbing protrusions under sinks & vanities and more. It provides quick, intuitive feedback, showing clients where to caulk, seal, etc. Reducing leaks can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs. |
THERMAL IMAGING SCAN TEST - STRUCTURE A thermal scan of known, potentially problematic areas within a house for extensive heat loss, is also available. Simple thermal leak testing as noted above can uncover leaks in those areas tested, but a comprehensive thermal scan of walls, ceilings, electrical components, etc., can uncover significant issues. A Thermal Image Scan utilizing a thermal imaging camera is available as an optional home inspection service to be performed at the time of the inspection. For an additional fee of only $125, a Thermal Image Scan Test can be added. I can provide this optional service for a minimal fee - because I'm already there to perform an inspection - no separate travel or other coordination is necessary, so I pass the savings on to my clients. This low cost "add-on" scan is requested regularly as part of my standard inspection. As previously stated, heating & cooling accounts for over 50% of your energy usage. A thermal image scan of the exterior walls from inside the house, ceilings, floors in many cases - can reveal significant insulation deficiencies. In some instances, it can even help find signs of invisible moisture/leaks - exactly where the issue is located. This can be of great value on houses with very high, unreachable ceilings and high walls. Another benefit of thermal imaging relates to possible electrical issues. Overly hot breakers in an electrical panel and overloaded wall dimmer switches [especially for recessed lighting] usually indicates a serious electrical problem/issue that could cause personal injury, or be a potential fire concern. Issues uncovered, if any, are included in the inspection report. Sample images below. |
In the cooler months, heat the house - not the neighborhood. During summer - keep cool, conditioned air in your house. Nothing spots energy drafts and missing insulation faster than a Thermal Imaging Scan Test. I use a Seek Reveal camera with advanced thermal sensors that allows me to look for potential energy losses throughout your prospective home. To save valuable energy and reduce electrical bills, this optional service could pay for itself almost immediately. Only areas that show issues as uncovered with the thermal image scan are itemized within the inspection report as a thermal picture with applicable comments/actions. You'll be able to see exactly where any issue is so it can be remedied by appropriate trade professionals. Spending a mere $55 could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars in energy costs! So when you're requesting a home inspection - consider a Thermal Imaging Scan Test. PLEASE NOTE: This test is not a "Whole House" Thermal Test service that on average, costs in excess of $1,000+. This low cost optional testing is a test of areas in a house known to be problematic - such as exterior walls, ceilings below attics, breaker panels, and dimmer switches. It is offered only at the time of an inspection. My thermal imaging camera may detect issues, if any, that are not invisible to the naked eye. |