About this service
Electrical thermal imaging uses an infrared camera to identify unusual surface temperatures in energised distribution equipment, connections and components. It can highlight patterns that deserve closer investigation, such as a hot termination, overloaded conductor or imbalanced phase.
A thermal image is not a complete diagnosis. Load at the time, emissivity, reflections, enclosure access and comparison between similar components all affect interpretation. Electrical testing or safe isolation may still be required to confirm the cause.
Common problems we help with
Connection is hotter than comparable phases
Loose termination, contact resistance or load imbalance may be responsible.
Protective device shows abnormal heat
Load, internal wear, connection or equipment condition needs assessment.
Plant cannot be easily shut down for inspection
Online thermal screening can help prioritise where planned isolation is most valuable.
No baseline exists
Trend comparison is difficult when previous load and image conditions were not recorded.
How we carry out the work
Plan the survey under representative load
We identify equipment, safe access, operating conditions and any panels requiring controlled opening.
Capture visual and thermal evidence
Temperatures, load context and component comparisons are recorded.
Classify follow-up
Findings are explained with recommended electrical investigation or maintenance rather than treated as proof alone.
What is normally included?
- Initial discussion about the property, symptoms, priorities and timescale
- Assessment of the relevant circuit, equipment, access and existing protection
- A written scope for the proposed electrical thermal imaging work
- The agreed installation or repair work, with disruption kept to a reasonable minimum
- Inspection, electrical testing and appropriate handover documentation
Before the work starts
- The purpose of the inspection and the person who will rely on the report
- The number, accessibility and labelling of circuits
- Previous certificates, alterations and known defects
- Whether operational areas need phased testing or out-of-hours access
What affects the price?
The price depends on the existing installation and the amount of work required. For electrical thermal imaging, the main factors normally include:
- Circuit count and distribution-board quantity
- Access to accessories, plant and tenanted rooms
- Quality of existing circuit schedules and records
- Extent of follow-up investigation or separately authorised remedial work
Testing, certificates and handover
Once the installation work is complete, we inspect and test it and provide the records that apply to the job.
- An identified inspection or test record
- Recorded results and observations for the agreed inspection
- An explanation of priorities and recommended actions
- A separate quotation where remedial work is requested
Electrical Thermal Imaging questions
Can thermal imaging replace an EICR?
No. It is a complementary condition-monitoring technique and does not replace full inspection and electrical testing.
Does every hot component indicate a fault?
No. Load and component design matter. The pattern and comparison need professional interpretation.
Can it find cables inside walls?
It may show heat patterns in some circumstances, but it is not a reliable cable-locating method.
Booking the work
What happens after you contact us
1. Discuss the job
Tell us about the property, the symptoms or the result you want. Photographs and model numbers are often helpful.
2. Inspect and quote
We check the relevant installation and give you a written quotation showing what is included.
3. Complete and test
We carry out the agreed work, verify it electrically and explain any controls, labels or certificates at handover.