infrared thermal imaging: Recirculation - 03/02/11 12:38 AM
One of the biggest complaints I hear from homeowners is regarding the lack of comfort in their homes, specifically with heating and cold drafts. I receive several calls a week regarding these issues. The reason people contact me is not because I'm a Connecticut home inspector, but because I'm a certified energy auditor and infrared thermographer. Often homeowners have been suffering with these problems for years without resolution in spite of having numerous professionals examine the house.
Some of these calls come from owners of newer homes. Now it might be hard to believe that a home only a few years … (18 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Crazy Depends Which Side Of The Fence You're On - 10/21/10 11:48 PM
I have found in my business of inspecting homes that the more people complain or continue to complain  the more likely they are to be perceived as some what eccentric. The person or persons who are the recipients of these complaints usually begin to feel this way after, without exaggeration, years of listening to this person gripe about the same problem.
The scenario is usually like this; the person or company in charge of rectifying the problem has not been able to do so. They are frustrated by their inability to correct the issue resulting in continued complaints. This is where … (14 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Infrared Cameras and Other Home Inspection Gadgets - 11/12/08 06:46 AM
Home inspectors are known for using all manner of tools and nifty gadgets.  I myself have a few.  Tools are a great addition to your main arsenal of tools, your five senses.  Most everyone is blessed with these basic senses and they are fantastic for doing most anything we need to accomplish. But sometimes we need to supplement or aid our natural gifts. That's where tools and gadgets come in. They can enhance our ability to perform a job but with one stipulation; they must be understood and used correctly.
As a home inspector I see the results of poor tool … (20 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Stratification is Not About Flying - 10/11/08 05:21 AM
When flying we'll usually hear the Captain speak about the stratosphere. It's a layer of the atmosphere above the troposphere. What is happening in our atmosphere is stratification, the layering of varying temperatures and densities of air. This same physical principle is applicable to our homes, except it is undesirable when it occurs.
Through the lens of an infrared camera these air layers can be observed. In my experience this will happen almost exclusively with forced air heating and cooling systems. But it also is common in high ceiling rooms, regardless of heating / cooling system variety.
In the first infrared … (14 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Think You're in The Pink? This May Make You Blue - 09/17/08 06:52 AM
Most everyone is familiar with the pink fiberglass insulation found in many, many homes. Everyone knows the pink feline character that shows us how this stuff will keep our homes warm and our energy bills reasonable. If only he had an infrared camera, the things he'd see!
There has been controversy surrounding the effectiveness of fiberglass insulation for years mostly between the manufactures and building science experts. The facts are strong that fiberglass is poor insulation that rarely performs as stated.
In the infrared image at right (this was taken in the summer) this insulated ceiling doesn't look to be insulated … (8 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Energy Audits, Why You Can't Do It Yourself - 12/17/07 08:13 AM
As utility cost rise everyone is looking for was to save on their energy bills. The internet, the daily paper and magazines all have tips for reducing your energy usage and expenses. These little bits of energy saving insight are great advice, but are no substitute for a professional energy audit.
A full scale energy audit evaluates the entire home for inefficiency. The audit report provides valuable information on estimated costs to upgrade individual components and their expected payoff through energy savings realized. In addition the auditor uses specialized tools such as an infrared camera and or a blower door fan, … (1 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Energy Audits, Why You Can't Do It Yourself - 12/17/07 08:07 AM
As utility cost rise everyone is looking for was to save on their energy bills. The internet, the daily paper and magazines all have tips for reducing your energy usage and expenses. These little bits of energy saving insight are great advice, but are no substitute for a professional energy audit.
A full scale energy audit evaluates the entire home for inefficiency. The audit report provides valuable information on estimated costs to upgrade individual components and their expected payoff through energy savings realized. In addition the auditor uses specialized tools such as an infrared camera and or a blower door fan, … (6 comments)

infrared thermal imaging: Energy Audits, a Small Investment for Big Savings - 08/02/07 03:56 AM
The Home Energy Tune-uP
There is a little known, nationally available energy efficiency inspection program that my company, JRV Home Inspection Services, provides called the Home Energy Tune-uP. This particular energy inspection is specifically designed for older homes. Unlike a HERS audit, which is best for new construction, a rating number is not assigned to the home. Older homes always score low and the number has no actual relevance to rectifying the energy deficiencies.
The Tune-uP provides a comprehensive report that details the areas of the home that are energy deficient. What are the most cost effective upgrades including estimates on each improvement … (1 comments)

 
James Quarello, Connecticut Home Inspector (JRV Home Inspection Services, LLC)

James Quarello

Connecticut Home Inspector

Wallingford, CT

More about me…

JRV Home Inspection Services, LLC

Address: Wallingford, CT, 06492

Office: (203) 887-4782



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