The Way Infrared Water Leak Technology Works
Infrared cameras can be useful tools in water leak detection because they can detect temperature differences on surfaces caused by the presence of moisture. Here’s how infrared cameras work:
Step 1: Infrared cameras don’t actually “see” water leaks directly. Instead, they can detect temperature differences in building materials and convert it into thermal images that represent surface temperature patterns.
Step 2: Water has a higher heat capacity than most building materials like drywall, wood, or concrete. When water leaks are detected in these materials, it creates a localized temperature difference compared to the surrounding dry areas.
Step 3: As water evaporates from the leak source, it creates an evaporative cooling effect. This cooler area shows up as a cooler spot or pattern in the thermal image.
Step 4: From these temperature patterns, potential leak sources or moisture intrusion areas can be interpreted. Cooler areas on the thermal images generally indicate wet areas.
Step 5: The main advantage of infrared cameras is that they can detect moisture issues without having to open up or damage walls, floors, or ceilings. This makes them useful for finding hidden leaks behind surfaces.
Infrared cameras are best suited for finding active leaks or recently occurring moisture infestations. They may not be able to pick up the subtle moisture that has penetrated well-dried building materials or completely dry leaks. Good training and experience are essential to understand the interpretation of the thermal images and to distinguish between the thermal patterns of leaks from other heat sources or air patterns.
Advantages in Mitigating Mold Growth
A water leak is one of the stealthiest contributors to the general deterioration of homes and buildings if left unattended. Its most common consequence is mold growth, which poses not only health hazards but also structural damages. In this quest for solutions in leak detection, one that poses the greatest threat is infrared technology. This article explores the benefits of infrared water leak detection in respect to preventive measures against and dealing with mold growth.
Pinpointing Hidden Water Leaks
Water leaks are the thieves of the dwelling, slipping into walls or floors without raising a commotion.
The advantage that accrues from the early detection of a water leak in averting significant damage and expensive repairs for extended periods.
Common sources of leaks include plumbing issues, roof damage, and faulty appliances.
The significance of early detection to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs.
Mold Growth: A Silent Aggressor
Mold thrives in damp environments, which makes water leaks an ideal breeding ground. Health risks that come with mold exposure include respiratory problems and skin irritation, among others. The effect on building structures, where water leaks allow mold to start growing and cause wood rot and damage to structural integrity.
Health risks associated with mold exposure, ranging from respiratory issues to skin irritation.
The impact of mold on building structures, including wood rot and compromised structural integrity.
Cost-Efficiency in Repairs
The financial implications of delayed leak detection on repair costs include structural damage as well as health risks for occupants and contamination of occupant contents with expensive cleaning, tenant relocation, etc., etc., etc. The last thing you want is the involvement of a tenant’s attorney.
Professional infrared water leak detection can show where the water has impacted the building materials. Construction professionals can accurately bid repairs from looking at photos and reading our complete reports. However, mold remediation and asbestos/lead/VOC abatement is not a general contractor type of repair. You will need a contractor with specific licenses, equipment training, skills and insurances to successfully perform environmental cleanup. The only way to confirm your job was completed successfully is through clearance/validation testing.
Infrared technology as a cost-effective solution by minimizing damage and subsequent repairs and maximizing long-term savings and return on investment for property owners.
Preservation of Indoor Air Quality
There is a proven link between water leaks and indoor air quality.
Infrared detection is a proactive measure to preserve healthy indoor environments and prevent costly consequences.
Protect occupants, their health and contents as well as preserving the structural integrity of your building.
Landlords and property managers: limit your liability with clearance/validation testing after all environmental jobs.
Links
Toxic Mold Testing
Infrared Thermography for Building Diagnostics – This study highlights the use of thermal IR imaging as a valuable tool for inspecting and performing non-destructive testing of building elements. It emphasizes detecting energy leaks, understanding HVAC operations, and identifying electrical and mechanical installation issues through IR inspections, which can indirectly help in identifying potential mold and structural defects due to moisture intrusion
Reliability of Infrared Thermography in Detecting Leaks in Buried Water Reticulation Pipes – This research assesses IR thermography’s feasibility for detecting leaks in small diameter buried pipes, demonstrating a passive leak detection methodology. The study’s outcomes show IR thermography’s potential in identifying leaks, which could lead to mold and structural issues if left unaddressed (Bach & Kodikara, 2017).