Detecting Leaks Using Thermal Imaging Technology

Thanks to thermal imaging leak detection technology, homeowners can sigh relief knowing that leaks around their homes can be detected early.

Generally, areas of energy loss and leaks in underground pipes, building insulation, or electrical systems go unnoticed until they are visible.

Unfortunately, by the time the leak became visible, it had already caused significant damage. With leaks, time is of the essence and every second matters. This property blog post explores the benefits of using thermal imaging for leak detection for homeowners and property managers.

Thermal Imaging Technology

Thermal imaging leak detection specialists are trained in the use of thermographic cameras. Your everyday tradies, like plumbers, will not likely be trained in thermography.

How thermal imaging works for leak detection

Thermal imaging is a non-invasive leak detection method that can quickly and reliably identify the source of any leak.

The process of leak detection using thermal imaging is relatively straightforward. When a leak occurs in the water system, the water’s escaping temperature changes slightly.

A thermal imaging camera can detect temperature variations caused by leaks, which appear as distinctive patterns on the thermal image. This helps the operator identify the exact location of the leak with confidence and precision.

Leak detection is better left to the experts.

When water is gushing through the wall, finding the source of the leak is usually straightforward. However, some leaks can go unnoticed for months, if not longer, mainly when the leak is small but persistent.

You’d be forgiven for thinking your plumber can always detect leaks; however, that’s not the case. For example, thermal imaging cameras detect leaks in heating systems. While a plumber will undoubtedly fix the leak, detecting the source is now a job for thermographic imaging experts.

Various methods, such as tracer gas systems and thermographic cameras, can detect leaks. However, this equipment requires a significant investment, which may not be feasible for plumbers.

Additionally, using a tracer gas methodology to identify the source of any leak requires extensive training and specific health and safety procedures, which may not be economically viable for a plumbing company that uses the technology only a couple of times a year.

When to use leak detection experts

Homebuyers should use leak detection experts during property inspections to help identify leaks.

Buying a property is a significant investment, and undetected leaks are one of the main discoveries for new homeowners. Leaks cause the most distress for new homeowners, and the most common are leaky toilets and pipes.

A general property inspection won’t give you the peace of mind you can get with a detailed leak detection report provided by a leak detection specialist using thermographic cameras.

Landlords and property managers

Landlords managing their own properties and property managers can also benefit from having a leak detection specialist company on their contact list.  Time is money, and rental property owners want to ensure their homes are fit for use 52 weeks of the year.

Minimizing damage and possible loss of rental income from a leak is one of the advantages of property managers and landlords to use specialists for leak detection. Other benefits for homeowners include the following.

• Technology that can scan large areas without physical contact and detect leaks that may go unnoticed
• Experts trained in leak detection in roofs, insulation, HVACs, and other heating systems and plumbing.
• Reports and documentation suitable for insurance claims, repairs and replacement
• Regular inspections for Landlord health and safety compliance

Landlords must adhere to health and safety rules, and a core component is ensuring their rental properties meet the standards of the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). This means no mould or dampness. One source of both mould and high moisture levels in the air is leaks.

However, early leak detection is possible with regular inspections using leak detection technology. Landlords should consider inspections an investment because they are tax deductible and can be a form of insurance.

Summing Up

Early detection of leaks saves money on costly repairs.  Homebuyers can get a leak detection inspection before purchasing a property for peace of mind.

Landlords and property managers can also benefit from regular inspections to ensure their assets are fit for purpose and comply with the health and safety compliance requirements.