Using Infrared for Residential Energy Surveys

This paper will discuss the advantage infrared thermography provides in audits and energy surveys that assess the energy efficiency of the normal residential structure and HVAC (heating, ventilating, and air conditioning) installation. In making these assessments, care must be given not only to insulation and infiltration issues, but to the interactional relationships between the building envelope and the mechanical air distribution parts of the HVAC system as well. If these interactions are not balanced and in harmony, energy efficiency suffers as well as the indoor air quality of the dwelling, causing excessive energy usage and potentially aggravating some health issues. Infrared scanning makes finding these problem areas much easier. Combined with digital photography, it can greatly enhance the consumer's understanding of just what the problem is and how to go about having it repaired. It also enhances the consumer's ability to deal with the contractors that may be performing the repair work.