How Thermal Camera Leak Detection Works

Thermal cameras make invisible temperature differences visible as a colour map. They are very effective for detecting hot-water and heating-line leaks.

How does it work?

The device reads infrared radiation from a surface and converts the temperature distribution into an image. A hot water pipe behind a wall heats the surrounding surface; the camera highlights that area in a different colour.

Where it excels

• Hot water line leaks
• Central heating and underfloor heating systems
• Water heater and boiler leaks
• Hidden leaks under marble or tile surfaces

Step by step

• Initial call: We understand the plumbing type and the symptoms.
• System heating: Hot water or heating is left on to amplify the signal.
• Scan: Suspect surfaces are scanned with the thermal camera.
• Verify: The hot spot is confirmed with acoustic listening or pressure testing.
• Report: The leak spot is marked and a repair plan is presented.

Limitations

On its own, a thermal camera doesn't always give a direct result for cold-water leaks; in those cases acoustic listening and pressure testing come into play. A professional team should pick the right combination of methods.