What can infrared do for you?

Infrared home inspection technology is quickly taking hold in the world of home inspections. This technology is not only used for pre-purchase home inspections, but can also be used as a tool to find energy leaks that can be fixed to make your home more energy efficient. Hidden problems can be “seen” by using this technology.

According the U.S. Department of Energy, “Thermography (infrared scanning) measures surface temperatures by using infrared video and still cameras. These tools see light that is in the heat spectrum. Images on the video or film record the temperature variations of the building's skin, ranging from white for warm regions to black for cooler areas. The resulting images help the auditor determine whether insulation is needed. They also serve as a quality control tool, to ensure that insulation has been installed correctly.”

Working in conjunction with a standard home inspection, infrared scanning can save a homeowner time and money by discovering problems that may be undetectable to the human eye and finding minor problems before they become major ones. Problems that can be found include faulty wiring that could lead to a house fire; the sources of mold; hidden leaks and water damage; and more.

When choosing an infrared home inspector, it is important to look at their credentials and make sure that they are properly trained and are legally qualified to do your inspection. Be sure to check to if your inspector has his SIRI (Specialist-Infrared Residential Inspector) Certification.

You can learn more about infrared inspections at www.homesafesouthflorida.com or http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/energy_audits/index.cfm/mytopic=11200