Electrical Thermal Imaging
Thermal Imaging: BREEAM Compliance, Inspections & FLIR Certification
In the world of smart building management and sustainable construction, electrical thermal imaging has become a vital tool for maintaining the health and efficiency of modern infrastructure. By using infrared technology to visualise heat patterns within electrical systems, this approach allows technicians to detect potential issues early, before they become costly or dangerous.
Beyond its value in maintenance and safety, thermal imaging also plays a key role in helping buildings meet the rigorous standards of BREEAM — the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method. This widely recognized sustainability certification evaluates the environmental performance of buildings, with energy efficiency and safety being central pillars. In this guide, we’ll explore how thermal imaging supports BREEAM compliance, how inspections are conducted, and why FLIR camera certification is crucial for reliable results.
What is Electrical Thermal Imaging?
Electrical thermal imaging is the process of using infrared cameras to detect and visualize heat emitted from electrical components. Every electrical system generates some level of heat during normal operation. However, excess heat, or hot spots, often indicates problems such as:
- Overloaded circuits
- Loose or corroded connections
- Worn-out insulation
- Failing components
Thermal imaging cameras convert these invisible heat signatures into visible images called thermograms. These images display temperature variations using color gradients, allowing technicians to pinpoint abnormal conditions that could lead to equipment failure, fire hazards, or energy waste.
Why Thermal Imaging Matters for BREEAM Compliance
For architects, engineers, and building managers pursuing BREEAM certification, thermal imaging is more than a diagnostic tool — it’s a strategic asset. BREEAM emphasizes energy efficiency, sustainability, and long-term performance. Thermal imaging contributes in the following ways:
- Detecting energy inefficiencies such as heat loss, poor insulation, or air leakage
- Identifying underperforming electrical systems, enabling proactive repairs and upgrades
- Ensuring occupant safety by spotting potential fire risks in electrical infrastructure
By addressing these issues through regular thermal inspections, buildings can align more closely with BREEAM’s benchmarks, improving their chances of earning credits and enhancing overall environmental performance.
Conducting Thermal Imaging Inspections: Step-by-Step
Carrying out an effective electrical thermal inspection involves more than pointing a camera and snapping images. It requires planning, precision, and expertise. Here’s a breakdown of the inspection process:
1. Preparation
Before any inspection begins, a clear scope must be defined. This includes identifying which systems and components will be assessed and ensuring they are operating under normal load conditions. This is critical because electrical systems need to be energized and under load to produce useful thermal patterns.
Additionally, safety measures must be in place. Inspectors should wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow relevant health and safety protocols, especially when working in live environments.
2. Data Collection
Once on-site, technicians use thermal imaging cameras to scan electrical panels, distribution boards, circuit breakers, transformers, and other components. Images are taken from multiple angles and distances to ensure thorough coverage.
The camera settings, including emissivity, reflected temperature, and focus, must be properly adjusted for accurate results. Inconsistent settings can distort readings and lead to incorrect conclusions.
3. Image Analysis and Interpretation
Interpreting thermograms is where skill and experience come into play. Normal temperature variations are expected, but sudden spikes or irregular patterns may signal issues. Key signs to look for include:
- Localized hot spots
- Unusual temperature gradients
- Components significantly hotter than their peers
Each observation must be logged and analyzed in context. For example, a hot breaker might indicate overload, but it could also be the result of ambient temperature or reflective surfaces. Technicians must rule out false positives and identify the root cause.
4. Reporting and Action
A good thermal inspection doesn’t stop with image capture. Inspectors generate a comprehensive report that includes:
- Annotated thermographic images
- Temperature readings
- Identified faults and severity levels
- Recommended corrective actions
When performed in line with BREEAM requirements, these reports also highlight how the inspection supports building sustainability goals, such as reducing energy loss or preventing future system failures.
FLIR Camera Certification: Why It Matters
FLIR Systems is one of the most trusted names in thermal imaging technology. Their cameras are widely used in industries ranging from building diagnostics to electrical engineering. However, simply owning a FLIR camera isn’t enough. Technicians must be properly trained and certified to get the most accurate results.
What is FLIR Certification?
FLIR camera certification is a formal recognition that a technician has completed specific training in the use of infrared cameras. It ensures they can:
- Operate the camera correctly under various conditions
- Adjust settings for different surfaces and materials
- Accurately interpret thermal images
- Identify real faults versus normal temperature variations
Certification Process
To achieve certification, technicians usually undergo training courses (Level 1, Level 2, etc.) that cover both theoretical and practical aspects of thermography. Topics include:
- Principles of heat transfer and infrared science
- Best practices for thermal image capture
- Common faults in electrical systems
- Reporting techniques and compliance requirements
After training, technicians must pass proficiency exams to demonstrate their skills. This process guarantees that inspections are carried out by professionals capable of delivering reliable, actionable data.
Practical Applications of Electrical Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging has evolved beyond just electrical fault detection. Today, it’s used in a wide range of building and energy applications:
Building Diagnostics
Thermal imaging reveals more than electrical issues—it can detect:
- Heat loss through windows and roofs
- Moisture intrusion and leaks
- HVAC inefficiencies
These insights help property managers schedule preventative maintenance and avoid costly repairs.
Energy Audits
Thermal scans are a vital part of energy assessments. By visualizing energy loss and inefficiencies, organizations can prioritize upgrades that reduce carbon footprints and utility costs, an important factor in BREEAM scoring.
Continuous Monitoring
In critical infrastructure and industrial settings, thermal cameras can be installed for ongoing system monitoring. This enables early detection of faults, enhances uptime, and supports predictive maintenance strategies.
Electrical Thermal Imaging
Electrical thermal imaging is a smart, non-invasive way to keep buildings safe, efficient, and sustainable. From identifying hidden electrical faults to supporting compliance with BREEAM standards, it plays a critical role in modern facilities management.
But the value of thermal imaging depends on the people and tools behind it. With FLIR-certified technicians and carefully planned inspections, organizations can confidently diagnose issues, optimize energy use, and uphold the highest standards of building performance.
Whether you’re managing a commercial property, planning a retrofit, or aiming for green building certification, thermal imaging should be an essential part of your strategy.