Thermal Imaging Cameras
Temperature is an excellent indicator for how HVAC systems are performing, as excessive heat is often a primary sign of trouble. Thermal imagers capture and display thermal radiation, or heat, as colorful electronic images, making hot and cold spots easily identifiable. Thermal imaging is an invaluable tool for diagnosing and solving HVAC issues.
Thermal imagers (also called thermal cameras or infrared cameras) allow technicians to easily spot leaks in ductwork, diffusers and connections, reveal high temperatures on furnaces and boilers, and identify condensate issues. It’s also effective in identifying areas of poor insulation, air infiltration through doors and windows, plumbing leaks, overheating motors and electrical connections, and various equipment issues. Not only is thermal imaging a strong visual means of pinpointing and documenting where attention is needed, it shows customers when their problems have been fixed.
Thermal camera prices have come down considerably over the past few years, putting the technology within reach of most HVAC companies. About a dozen manufacturers currently produce thermal imagers for the U.S. market, with Fluke and Flir leading the pack. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on features. A few manufacturers offer professional-grade thermal imaging attachments for iPhone and Android.
Return on investment (ROI) for thermal cameras depends on how they are used, but they have been proven to increase productivity by quickly identifying temperature extremes, and providing potential customers with thermal imagery is a highly effective sales tool, as seeing is believing. Many HVAC contractors use thermal imaging as part of a separate home energy auditing service.
About E.P. Homiek
E.P. Homiek Sheet Metal Fabrication & HVAC Supply, with two convenient locations in Lakewood, NJ and Union, NJ, provides one- to two-day turnaround on all residential and light commercial ductwork, as well as one- to two-hour emergency fabrication service, rapid delivery, and competitive prices. HVAC parts, supplies, and equipment lines include Goodman, Honeywell, Bryant, Bradford White, Crown Boiler, Daikin, Weil-McLain, Sea Breeze, Generac, Fantech, ZM, A.O. Smith, Hart & Cooley, Malco, Mueller, and many more.
