Thermal Imaging Camera
In 2021 in order to help local residents save money on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint at the same time. REG decided to buy a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC). The idea to take the plunge and invest in this technology came from Addingham Environment Group. We were supported in this by grants from the local parish councils and a generous retrospective grant from Whalley Hydro (the first eco warriors in our area).
Questions we all need to ask are: How well insulated are our homes? Where are the cooler areas in the home?
To help to identify where your home may be losing heat, we can undertake a survey of the inside of your property during the day and if you wish outside, using a TIC. The survey will be carried out by REG members and could last for an hour. The camera will identify the cold spots where heat is being lost. The information that is seen can help you to decide on the steps you can consider to fix the problem and reduce your energy consumption.
For example, even simple low cost solutions such as installing thermal blinds and curtains or draft proofing around doors, windows and letter boxes can make a difference.
We may be able to bring the Home Energy Kit if it is not being loaned out which shows examples of small items that can prevent heat loss and be fitted at little cost.
The best time for taking thermal images is on a cold, dry and dull day when the heating has been on for a few hours. The greater the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the house the better. Rain and sun can give distorted readings so on or at the end of a cold cloudy windy day is ideal.
The cooler areas are easy to spot as they show up as dark blue. The hotter areas are bright orange.
We need to stress that this is not a professional survey. It is intended to start a conversation and identify areas where changes can be made.
If you would like a survey of your property please get in touch with us. Contact us at readstoneinfo@gmail.com or a member of the committee.
All aspects of the survey are free to residents of Read and Simonstone. For people outside our area a small donation would be appreciated which will go towards covering the cost of the camera.
There has never been a more necessary time to save energy efficiently in our homes.