FLIR thermal imaging cameras are able to measure heat, so the infrared technology can be used to measure temperature differences in the home or office and to cut power bills.
FLIR Systems managing director Roger Christiansz said measuring heat is the easiest and quickest non-destructive method of detecting energy waste, moisture intrusion and electrical issues in buildings as well as pinpointing other problems.
“Once the issues are identified such as faulty insulation or ill-fitting windows – which add enormously to household power bills by allowing heat to escape – most can be quickly remedied and consumers will immediately see the benefit with reduced power bills,” he said.
During the past three years, electricity prices have risen by an average of 35 per cent across Australia and Christiansz said prices are expected to jump a further 37 per cent by 2014.
“Numerous factors are at work pushing power prices up including a raft of new green costs, including the new carbon tax, a lack of investment in electricity infrastructure in past decades, inefficient power networks and rising fossil fuel prices,” he said.
FLIR infrared cameras go to work both on the inside and outside of a building and can highlight differences in surface temperature warranting further investigation.
Blair Freeman, a certified building science thermographer and managing director of Energy Leaks, uses the cameras to detect missing ceiling insulation and gaps throughout the building envelope.
“Even a five per cent gap in your ceiling insulation equates to an overall loss of 40 per cent in your total R values,” he said.
A thermography report on a building can highlight where improvements can be made, leading to greater efficiencies and power savings.
More information available at www.flir.com
