What is thermal imaging and how does it help my plumbing?
Most people have heard of thermal imaging and its many uses but how exactly can it help the plumbing systems around your home or business?
What is thermal imaging?
Thermal imaging is the technique of using the heat given off by an object to produce an image of it or to locate it. In essence, a thermal imaging camera measures variations in heat, or infrared radiation, and represents the heat as different colours in an image.
This style of imaging is used by many industries from medical, law enforcement, to plumbing and electrical. For instance, electricians use thermal imaging to detect hot spots in electrical systems which can indicate dangerous faults.
How and why is it used in plumbing?
95% of the plumbing systems around your home are tucked away neatly within walls, under flooring, or in the ceiling void, this is fantastic for aesthetics but not so ideal if a pipe bursts. Thermal imaging is an indispensable tool for plumbers who utilise it to uncover hidden leaks, pinpoint the exact location for repairs, and survey water damage not easily visible by recording the differences in temperature in an area. A wet area will be a different temperature to surrounding dry areas.
This process can be used to inspect pipes carrying mains water into and around your property, as well as drains carrying wastewater going away from the building.
Why do I need a thermal imaging inspection?
Thermal imaging is very useful for homeowners, property managers and businesses. It can be used in pre-purchase plumbing inspections, for detecting water leaks
- inside walls
- in ceilings
- under floorboards
- within concrete foundations
- as well as behind the splashback tiles in the kitchen
- or under the shower base or bath in the bathroom.
Anywhere water can get into around your home.
Undetected leaks can quickly lead to mould and mildew growth, the rotting of timber structures or supports, as well as the damage of concrete slabs, plasterboard, cabinets, carpet, and floorboards.
Prompt attention to any suspected leak is strongly recommended and will help keep repair costs to a minimum.
Finding hidden pipes, drains, or connections within walls and floors is also made easier with the use of a thermal imaging camera. Thermal imaging avoids needing to remove large areas of walls or tiles to find pipes, this is especially helpful in older buildings that may not have clear plans or homes where DIY plumbing work has been carried out in the past.
Your plumber can utilise thermal imaging to provide a thorough inspection of the plumbing systems in your home or business, potentially uncovering trouble spots you wouldn't know about until the damage was extensive. We recommend a thermal imaging inspection as part of our pre-purchase checks when buying property to ensure the unseen plumbing systems are sound.
Book in your thermal imaging inspection with our Sydney plumbing team on 9191 7374 or complete our service request form today.
