How Thermal Imaging Finds Hidden Water Leaks: Technology Explained

The Science of Seeing the Invisible

Thermal imaging is one of the most powerful tools in modern leak detection. This technology allows us to "see" temperature differences that are invisible to the naked eye, revealing hidden water leaks without cutting into walls or floors.

How Thermal Imaging Works

The Basic Principle

Everything emits infrared radiation based on its temperature. Thermal imaging cameras detect this radiation and convert it into a visible image where different temperatures appear as different colours.

In leak detection:

• Water evaporating creates cooler areas
• Hot water pipes appear as warm lines
• Moisture in walls shows as temperature variations
• Leak locations become visible patterns

What the Camera Sees

A typical thermal image shows:

• Blue/purple: Cooler areas (often wet)
• Green/yellow: Normal temperatures
• Orange/red: Warmer areas (hot pipes or sun-heated surfaces)

Advantages of Thermal Imaging

1. Non-Invasive Detection

Traditional leak finding might involve:

• Cutting holes in walls
• Breaking up floors
• Excavating gardens

Thermal imaging requires none of this. We simply point the camera at surfaces and see what's happening inside.

2. Speed and Efficiency

A thermal survey can cover large areas quickly:

• Entire rooms in minutes
• Full properties in hours
• Immediate results on-screen

3. Documentation

Thermal images provide:

• Visual proof of leak locations
• Before and after comparison
• Evidence for insurance claims
• Records for contractors

4. Finding Multiple Issues

During a thermal survey, we often discover:

• Additional smaller leaks
• Insulation deficiencies
• Electrical hot spots
• Air infiltration points

Limitations of Thermal Imaging

It's Not X-Ray Vision

Thermal cameras see temperature differences on surfaces, not through them. We need:

• Temperature differences to exist
• Adequate time for heat transfer
• Suitable environmental conditions

Best Conditions

Thermal imaging works best:

• When heating/cooling systems are running
• With temperature difference between inside and outside
• When surfaces have had time to stabilize
• Without direct sunlight interference

Real-World Applications in Lanzarote

Hot Water Pipe Leaks

Hot water pipes running through walls or under floors are easily detected:

• Hot water pipes show clearly as warm lines on the thermal image
• Leaks appear as wet cool spots where water is escaping
• Entire areas can be scanned quickly without disruption

Swimming Pool Leaks

For pool leak detection:

• Thermal cameras can identify underground pipe routes
• Leaks show as cool spots where water surfaces
• Pool shells can be scanned for temperature anomalies

Flat Roof Leaks

Many Lanzarote properties have flat roofs:

• Trapped moisture shows as temperature differences
• Entry points can be identified before rain
• Large areas surveyed efficiently

Our Thermal Imaging Equipment

At Canary Detect, we use professional-grade thermal imaging cameras with:

• High resolution: Detailed images showing precise locations
• Temperature accuracy: ±2% readings for reliable analysis
• Wide temperature range: Suitable for all conditions
• Digital recording: Full documentation capability

Thermal Imaging in Our Detection Process

Thermal imaging is often the first step in our comprehensive approach:

1. Thermal survey: Identify areas of concern
2. Moisture mapping: Confirm wet areas electronically
3. Acoustic detection: Listen for active leaks
4. Tracer gas: Pinpoint exact leak locations

This multi-technology approach ensures we find leaks accurately and efficiently.

Case Study: Villa in Playa Blanca

The problem: Homeowner noticed increasing water bills but no visible leaks.

Thermal imaging revealed: A clear thermal signature showing the path of a hot water pipe with a distinct cool spot where water was escaping.

The result: Leak located precisely, repair completed with minimal floor damage, water bill returned to normal.

Book a Thermal Imaging Survey

If you suspect hidden leaks in your Lanzarote property, thermal imaging can reveal the truth without any damage.

Contact Canary Detect – our No Find, No Fee guarantee ensures you only pay when we find your leak.

Schedule your survey →