Thermal Imaging
What is thermal imaging?
Thermal imaging is a non-contact inspection method that uses infrared cameras to detect heat patterns in electrical systems. It works by capturing infrared radiation emitted by energised electrical components and converting it into thermal images.
At Mance Electrical, our certified thermographers use calibrated infrared cameras to scan live switchboards, distribution boards, cabling, motors, and other high-load electrical infrastructure. We detect heat anomalies, called “hot spots”, that may indicate dangerous faults such as loose terminals, overloaded phases, or corroded connectors.
Avoid costly electrical breakdowns
Reduce fire risk from unnoticed faults
Comply with insurer and WHS requirements
Improve system reliability and uptime
Diagnose faults without shutting down power
Thermal imaging reveals electrical faults by highlighting areas where excess heat accumulates due to abnormal resistance, current imbalance, or component degradation.
Overheated connections, imbalanced loads, and overloaded components emit more infrared radiation. These anomalies appear as colour-highlighted areas on thermal images, typically showing a temperature delta (?T) of 10–20°C above baseline.
How does thermal imaging detect electrical faults?
What electrical problems can thermal imaging find?
Thermal imaging is capable of detecting a wide range of electrical faults that are not visible through routine visual inspections or standard test equipment.
Among the most common issues identified are loose connections, phase imbalances, overloaded circuits, deteriorating insulation, and failing electrical components. These faults typically manifest as hot spots that emit more infrared energy than surrounding components. Over time, they can lead to equipment failure, unplanned shutdowns, or fire hazards.
How do technicians perform a thermal inspection?
A thermal inspection is a live, non-invasive process carried out by certified thermographers following strict safety protocols. We comply with relevant safety standards including AS/NZS 3019 and PPE protocols, ensuring inspections are accurate and incident-free.
Preparation
Ensure loads are active and panels are accessible
Scanning
With power on, the technician scans all relevant components
Image capture
Infrared readings are recorded and logged
Analysis
Temperature data is assessed for anomalies
Reporting
A detailed PDF report is issued, with annotated thermal images and temperature readings
Which industry standards apply to thermal inspections?
Thermal inspections may form part of electrical maintenance under AS/NZS 3019 or other insurance-directed protocols.
AS/NZS 3019
Guidelines for periodic verification of electrical installations
Insurer policies
Some insurers mandate or incentivise thermal scans
Training standards
Our thermographers hold IR Level I/II certifications to meet industry compliance
What to expect in your thermal inspection report
Our post-inspection report gives you actionable insights and visual evidence of your electrical system’s condition.
This report supports your WHS documentation, insurance requirements, and preventive maintenance plan.
Annotated thermal images
Measured ?T values per component
Severity levels (normal / caution / critical)
Recommendations for corrective action
Certification of inspection for audit use
Powering events, creating memories.
We provide services around Invermay, Newstead, South Launceston, Kings Meadows, Trevallyn, Prospect, Ravenswood, Norwood, Youngtown, Mowbray, West Launceston and the wider Tamar Valley/Northern Tasmania.
A long history
Our team has worked in Launceston homes for decades. We know how different houses are put together, from older builds to modern renovations, and how to carry out the work without turning your week upside down. That experience shows in the planning, the detail, and the finish.
Fully licensed
Your job is carried out by licensed electricians who keep up with current Australian Standards. Test instruments are calibrated, paperwork is supplied and you can reach us if you have a question later. It is electrical work done right, with clear accountability.
Trusted by locals
Most of our work comes from people telling friends and family. We keep things simple, turn up when we say, and clean up before we leave. If something needs a tweak after the fact, we come back and sort it.
Other services
To help meet workplace safety obligations, we also provide routine test and tag services for commercial equipment.
Construction projects and events can be supported through compliant temporary power connections where short-term supply is required.
Hidden faults and overheating issues can be identified early using professional thermal imaging inspections.
If something goes wrong unexpectedly, our emergency electrical services are available to assist with urgent residential electrical issues.
Frequently asked questions about thermographic inspections
Is thermal imaging safe for switchboards?
Yes, thermal imaging is a non-contact inspection. The infrared camera does not inject electricity or energy. Technicians follow strict safety protocols (PPE, safe distance) per standards like NFPA 70E. When done by trained personnel, it poses no harm to the equipment or people.
How often should I get a thermal imaging inspection?
Typically at least once a year. Standards like NFPA 70B and AS/NZS?3019 recommend annual electrical surveys. High-risk or critical equipment may require more frequent checks (e.g. quarterly or semi-annually). For homes or small businesses, annual or bi-annual is common unless codes in your area specify otherwise.
Do I need to shut off power during the inspection?
No. One advantage of thermal scans is they are done on live systems under load. This shows real operating temperatures. Only in exceptional cases (e.g. to check for colour markings) might brief de-energising occur, but generally no shutdown is needed.
Will thermal imaging find all electrical problems?
Thermal imaging catches issues that cause temperature changes (hot or cold spots). It won’t detect purely non-thermal issues (e.g. software faults, ambient humidity). Also, it may miss a problem if the equipment isn’t under sufficient load (need ?40% load for reliable results). It’s used alongside regular inspections, not as a sole test.
How should I prepare for an inspection?
Ensure the electrical system is powered and at its typical operating load. Clear access to panels is important (panels must be opened). Lockout/tagout procedures may be paused for scanning. Inform staff that a hot (energised) inspection is occurring and ensure safety protocols are in place.
What is a 'hot spot' and why is it bad?
A hot spot is a localised area much hotter than adjacent parts. It usually means excessive resistance or load at that point (e.g. a loose screw or corroded terminal). If ignored, a hot spot can lead to fire, equipment damage, or failure of that circuit.
What does Delta T (?T) mean?
Delta T is the temperature difference between two points. For example, one phase of a circuit may be 10°C hotter than others, that ?T flags an imbalance or fault. Inspectors use ?T thresholds (often around 5–10°C) to mark anomalies.
Is a certified thermographer needed?
Yes. Proper training (e.g. ITC Level 1/2/3 or NDT thermal imaging courses) ensures accurate scanning and analysis. Certification also means compliance with standards and that reports are reliable.
How long does a thermal inspection take?
It depends on system size. A small home panel might take 30–60 minutes. A large commercial/industrial facility could take several hours to survey multiple switchboards. Follow-up analysis and report writing takes additional time after the on-site visit.
Can thermal imaging reduce my insurance premium?
It can. Many insurers in Australia/NZ view regular thermal surveys as evidence of good maintenance. If no serious issues are found, companies may offer reduced fire insurance rates. Always check with your insurer about their requirements.