4 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Using Thermal Camera for Home Inspection

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Thermal cameras have revolutionized the way homeowners and professionals alike conduct home inspections. These cameras use infrared radiation to detect temperature differences in a given space, allowing users to identify issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. However, using a thermal camera for home inspections is not as simple as just pointing and shooting. There are a few common mistakes that homeowners should avoid when using a thermal camera for the home inspection. In this article, we will discuss these mistakes in detail and provide tips on how to avoid them. Expanded reading: Thermographic Camera in HVAC of Buildings 

 

Mistake 1: Not understanding how thermal cameras work


The first mistake homeowners often make when using a thermal camera is not understanding how it works. Thermal cameras detect infrared radiation, which is emitted by all objects with a temperature above absolute zero. It translates infrared radiation into an image that shows the temperature variations in a scene. It's important to note that thermal cameras do not see through walls or windows; they can only see through the materials that can transmit heat.

 

When using a thermal camera, it's important to keep in mind that the camera is only measuring surface temperature. Therefore, it's important to use the camera in conjunction with other inspection methods to get a complete picture of the situation. Find how infrared detectors work.


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8μm Uncooled Infrared Detector with a Large Array of 1920×1080 was Launched by InfiRay®

 

Mistake 2: Not using the right settings


The second mistake homeowners often make when using a thermal camera is not using the right settings. Using the right settings is crucial when using a thermal camera. If the settings are not set correctly, the camera may not be able to detect the issues that you are looking for.

 

One of the most important settings to get right is emissivity. Emissivity is a measure of how much radiation a surface emits compared to a perfect emitter. Different materials have different emissivity values, and it's important to set the camera's emissivity setting to match the material you are inspecting. If the emissivity setting is set incorrectly, the thermal camera may not be able to accurately measure the temperature of the object you are inspecting.

 

Another important setting to get right is the temperature range. If it is set too high or too low, it may not be able to detect the temperature differences that are important for identifying issues. It's important to choose the right temperature range for the situation.


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InfiRay thermal camera detects a 104.6°C pot

 

Mistake 3: Not interpreting the results correctly


The third mistake homeowners often make when using a thermal camera is not interpreting the results correctly. Interpreting the results of a thermal camera can be tricky. The thermal camera will highlight temperature variations, but it's up to the user to determine whether those variations are significant.

 

For example, a hot spot on a wall may be caused by a leaky pipe, or it may just be a result of the sun shining on that area of the wall. It's important to use the camera in conjunction with other inspection methods to verify the cause of any temperature variations. For example, if you see a hot spot on a wall, you may want to use a moisture meter to see if there is any moisture present in that area. This can help you determine whether the hot spot is a result of a leak or just a result of the sun shining on the wall.


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Detecting water seepage walls with a thermal camera

 

Mistake 4: Not using the camera in the right conditions


The fourth mistake homeowners often make when using a thermal camera is not using the camera in the right conditions. Thermal cameras are best used in certain conditions. For example, they work best when there is a significant temperature difference between the inside and outside of a building. If the temperature difference is too small, the thermal camera may not be able to detect any issues.

 

Similarly, thermal cameras work best in dry conditions. If it's raining or snowing outside, the camera may not be able to accurately detect temperature differences. Additionally, thermal cameras may not be able to detect issues in areas that are obstructed by heavy foliage or other objects.

 

It's important to use the camera in the right conditions to get accurate results. If the conditions are not optimal, it's better to wait for better weather or clear away obstructions before using the camera. Discovery: How to easily identify targets or detect objects on a foggy day? 


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InfiRay Thermal Imaging Cameras Working in Rain and Snow

 

Conclusion


In conclusion, using a thermal camera for home inspections can be a valuable tool, but it's important to use it correctly. Homeowners should avoid common mistakes such as not understanding how thermal cameras work, not using the right settings, not interpreting the results correctly, and not using the camera in the right conditions. By avoiding these mistakes and using the camera in conjunction with other inspection methods, homeowners can get a complete picture of the situation and identify issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.