A thermal or infrared imaging camera can be invaluable for detecting leaks. Water-damaged or water-logged material conducts heat differently to surrounding areas. As such, leaks, water ingress, or moisture problems that are invisible to the naked eye can appear as a clear temperature difference in a thermal image.
Building moisture problems can originate from many sources, including humidity, condensation, pipe leaks, rain, flooding, and breathing (people and pets). Thermal cameras and moisture meters can help you hone in on key problem areas and validate the success of remedial work.
The Infrared 'Signature' of Water Leaks
The following images demonstrate some typical moisture patterns you may encounter when using a thermal camera for leak detection.
Water leaks in walls may show a top-down triangular shape as water spreads downwards, for example, below a poorly sealed window.
Ceiling water leaks may follow a less structured shape, spreading out from the source. Note that water leaks will appear darker (cooler) in most thermal images.
In cases of flooding or poor drainage, water is likely to 'wick' up the walls, as pictured above.
Thermal cameras can also find hot water pipes in the wall or locate leaks in hydronic heating systems or other in-slab water pipes. Thermal imagers do not see 'through' materials, so the deeper a pipe or leak is into a building element, the harder it will be to detect.
Which Thermal Camera is Best For Leak Detection?
Generally, you want a thermal camera with a high thermal resolution and accurate temperature sensitivity for leak detection and plumbing work. Here's why:
- Thermal Resolution - a higher resolution provides clearer and more detailed thermal images, making it easier to find the source of a leak. We recommend a camera with 240x180 thermal sensor or larger.
- Thermal Sensitivity - a higher thermal sensitivity (ie. a lower number in °C) means it can detect smaller temperature differences. Moisture issues often exhibit only tiny difference in temperature between building elements. We recommend a sensitivity of 0.05°C or lower.
For Homeowners & DIYers:
We know that high-end FLIR cameras are not a realistic choice for everyone. For moisture problems, you can still get decent utility from a FLIR ONE or an InfiRay P2 Pro. These are entry-level cameras; we do not recommend them for professional or high-accuracy work.
For Professionals:
FLIR recommends a FLIR E6 Pro or higher for leak detection. You can see our full range of professional cameras by following the links below:
- FLIR Ex Series - including the E5 Pro, E6 Pro, and E8 Pro. These are our most popular choices for electricians, plumbers and other trades.
- FLIR Exx Series - including the E54, E76, E86 and E96. These are top-end cameras often used by professional building inspectors and others.
- Moisture Meters - including the MR277, which combines thermal imaging and moisture detection into one device.
While thermal imaging is a powerful tool, it's not foolproof. Always use it in conjunction with other methods and your existing expertise to accurately identify and address leaks.
