Flir Thermal Camera | FAQ

Q: What software do I need to download and view the images?
A: Just download images from the FLIR E6-XT thermal camera like you would on a standard digital camera. 

Q: Are operating instructions included in the kit?
A: Yes. The manufacturer's operating instructions will be included in the carrying case. 

Q: What is included in the thermal camera rental kit?
A: The FLIR E6XT camera; A robust carry case; Power charger; Rechargeable lithium battery; USB data transfer and charging cable. 

Q: Can thermal cameras see through walls?
A: When you point a thermal camera at a wall it detects heat from the wall. Walls, particularly insulated ones, are usually thick enough to block any infrared radiation from the other side. You may need to use the thermal camera on both sides of the wall independent of one another. 

Q: What do thermal camera’s see?
A: A thermal imaging camera detects the surface temperature of the first object in its line of sight. When you point the camera at any solid surface it will register the heat being radiated outward by that surface. 

Q: How do I read and interpret the colours on a thermal camera?
A: The thermal imaging camera uses different colours to show the relative temperature of objects and solid surfaces. Cold is purple, moderate is red, and hot is yellow. The Thermal Imaging Camera will show you hot and cold spots throughout your house. This will indicate where insulation is missing or has deteriorated and you will be able to identify where air is leaking in and out of your home. 

Q: What do the colours mean on a thermal camera?
A: The Thermal imaging camera will show three different colours and will range from light to dark tones for each colour. 

  • In wintertime:
    • Purple identifies cold spots so you will know where there is either a lack of insulation or air is leaking through cracks.
    • Red is moderate; you can feel reassured that the red part is ok.  
  • In summertime:
    • Yellow indicates hot – and will indicate where there is either a lack of insulation or air is leaking through cracks.

The purple and yellow will indicate hot and cold spots depending on the season you are inspecting (e.g. winter, summer etc.) and you will know there is a problem in these areas. 

Q: What is thermal imaging used for?
A: Thermal imaging is used for scanning walls, windows, doors, and other surfaces in a home to detect air leaks that may not be detectable with other methods. For instance, thermography can detect cracks around windows or gaps in insulation that are imperceptible to the naked eye. You can also identify areas of moisture infiltration or pooling in walls that could lead to water damage over time.  

Q: I’m not really sure how or where to start? 
A: That is no problem at all. ecoMaster has a series of ecoMasterClasses on just about every topic of energy efficiency. All the information is totally free. Click here to check it out.