Leak Detection

In Property Maintenance are leading experts in leak detection services. Our engineers use state-of-the-art Thermal Imaging Technology to detect leaks quickly and efficiently.
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thermal imaging leak detection

What is Thermal Imaging?

Thermal Imaging is an efficient, popular leak detection method.

Thermal Imaging Cameras, also known as Infrared or Thermographic Cameras, have transformed the leak detection industry. Our experienced engineers now offer thermal checks when they visit your home.

They will be equipped with a handheld thermal imaging camera. This intelligent device detects heat energy and displays a visual on the display screen for the user. The main element of the device is the heat sensor which is attached to the bespoke camera lens.

Thermal imaging technologies help our engineers identify significant increases or drops in temperature. They can easily see any components that are overheating, detect any sources of wasted heat energy, and determine any gaps in the building’s insulation.

This infrared camera device allows our skilled engineers to view parts of the electromagnetic system that are usually invisible to the naked eye. Of course, visible light only forms a significantly small part of the spectrum; however, the sensor on the thermal imaging device allows the user to view a wide range of the otherwise invisible infrared spectrum.

The device displays the varied scales of the spectrum in colour, with warmer regions showing up in shades of red, orange and yellow. Whereas blue and purple tones indicate cooler areas. Green tends to show if the site is at ambient temperature. However, they work exceptionally well in dark conditions, which is excellent news as pipework is usually in a covered environment.

How does Thermal Imaging work?

A thermal imaging camera works by measuring the infrared radiation emerging from the objects in the room, including door and window fittings. The device can do this due to the lens allowing IR frequencies to pass through onto a unique sensory array.

The sensor array consists of a grid of pixels, which converts the infrared wavelengths into electronic signals. Finally, these signals are processed and transformed into a colour map presenting the varying temperature values.

Our thermal imaging devices are capable of accurate temperature measurement. If there is a noticeable difference between the temperature of the room compared to just below the windows and along the bottom of the wall framing, this strongly suggests that there is a leak within that area.

To help our engineers identify the precise location of the leak, they can take an ordinary photograph of the affected area with a regular camera. Then, they can capture a screenshot of the infrared thermal display on their device. Finally, they can make a quick comparison between the two pictures.

What are the benefits?

1. Thermal imaging is the quickest and most efficient method of leak detection.
2. Our efficient methods mean that you’ll spend less on plumbing costs while receiving the best plumbing service possible.
3. Infrared IR cameras are classified as non-invasive technology – thermal imaging allows us to detect leaks without causing structural damage safely. Therefore you can avoid any knock-on damage or costly repair work.

What is the purpose of leak detection?

Leak detection in both residential and commercial settings is essential. If you suspect a leak at any point, we advise you to get in touch with In Property Maintenance as soon as possible.

Investigating and identifying a leak in your heating or water system early on can save you from expensive repair bills. In addition, it prevents unnecessary extreme water loss and severe flooding within the home. Vigilant leak detection can also help you avoid claiming on your insurance which stops your premium from increasing.

How to recognise a leak

Before you call us out to offer a helping hand, it is helpful to know the key factors that indicate a leak in your household or business premises.

Here are some points to look out for:

Monitor the water bill - if this is abnormally high compared to previous months, this could suggest a water leak.

Watch the water meter - if your meter readings stay the same after turning off the water, there may be a leak.

Wall discolouration - this may indicate that water is leaking from behind the wall and is soaking through.

Bubbling paint or bulging wallpaper - this suggests that the wallboard is wet.

A musty smell - after some time, persistent leaks creates the perfect environment for mould to grow, which may begin to smell.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do thermal cameras find water leaks?

The detector found inside the lens can see a variety of frequencies usually invisible to the human eye. The camera presents these tiny changes in temperature in the form of a colour chart. The changes in heat indicate the leak’s location; for example, if the temperature lowers dramatically below the window fittings and along the bottom of the wall framing, this can suggest a leak.

Additionally, water pipes will generally show up as straight lines, whereas escaping water will display in a plume shape.

Do thermal cameras work through glass?

Generally, thermal cameras cannot work through the glass as it often reflects the infrared wavelengths, so they cannot convert them into electrical signals. Therefore you will not receive accurate readings.

What is meant by leak detection?

Leak detection is the method by which the existence of a leak within a hot water, central or underfloor heating system is discovered through a reliable process, e.g. thermal imaging.

Why is leak detection important?

Leak detection is vital to help prevent a disaster before it occurs. However, no matter how small you feel the leak may be, it could cause flooding and other material damage to your property that is extremely expensive to fix if left untreated.