Thermography can be performed for new or old properties. A thermal imaging survey can help identify areas of concern such as heat loss, missing insulation and moisture. The results of the survey can help a homeowner decide on how to prioritize repairs or upgrades to and reduce their energy bills. But how does thermal imaging work? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about a thermal imaging survey.

Q: What is thermal imaging (thermography)?
A: A technology for acquiring and analyzing thermal information using non-contact thermal imaging devices. It is a completely passive technique capable of imaging under both daytime and night-time conditions. Thermal imaging detects wavelengths longer than the visible light portion of the light spectrum in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Q: Can any property have a thermal imaging survey performed?
A: Yes. Any property can and should have a thermal imaging survey. Whether you suspect moisture intrusion or want to save money on your energy bills, our inspectors can survey any property. With the cost of heating and cooling on the rise, it is wise to locate problem areas within your home with the use of a thermal imaging camera. 

Q: Is the use of Infrared (IR) thermal cameras harmful?
A: No. Infrared thermal camera does not emit infrared rays. A thermal camera receives the infrared thermal radiation emitted by objects. IR Thermal cameras are naturally harmless to the human body and property.

Q: How to infrared cameras work?
A: All objects emit infrared energy, known as a heat signature. An infrared camera (also known as a thermal imager) detects and measures the infrared energy of objects. The camera converts that infrared data into an electronic image called a thermogram. The thermogram shows the apparent surface temperature of the object being measured.

Q: What equipment do you use?
A: A lot of research and product trials went into choosing the best equipment. Because competitors try to copy our work, we don’t publicly share too many specifics. But we can tell you our equipment has 21 times greater thermal detector sensor resolution than many thermal inspectors’ equipment, on-board AI software for image processing, laser-aided focus and laser distance measurement, nearly 20 selectable thermal spot identifiers, a temperature range of more than 2000 degrees F, on-board high resolution camera for picture in picture captures, on-board GPS, and multiple lenses which are chipped and calibrated specifically to each of our cameras.

Q: What can I expect from a thermal imaging survey?
A: Our thermal inspectors are professionally trained CREIA and ASHI certified SacPro home inspectors. Each thermal inspector is experienced in identifying deficiencies within a home’s eleven (11) major systems and understands how each of these systems may contribute to thermography results. Each thermal inspector is equipped with the latest high resolution thermal imaging technology to survey your property. The inspector will capture images and videos of the interior and exterior of your property to provide you with a detailed report and the imagery to summarize your property. You can expect your report typically within 48 hours of your survey. We will clearly explain our findings and will take the time to discuss with you the efficiency of your property and the next steps, if required.

Q: How much does a thermal imaging/heat loss survey cost?
A: Our thermal imaging surveys start at $375 for a single story residence which is under 1,500 square feet and on a slab foundation.