This time of the year, in many parts of the country, homeowners and property managers are often considering the state of the insulation and heating systems in buildings.  As heating costs rise in response to the bitter temperatures, people are hit with the realization that more could be done to insulate the space and to improve the efficiency of the heating system, thereby reducing the load placed on it during the winter.

With this thought in mind, we read an article that had several recommendations for those trying to maximize insulation and efficiency in their homes and offices.  One of the major concerns addressed was the problem of cold floors.  Not only do cold floors steal heat from the room, they also make a person feel less comfortable, and can ultimately make the space feel cooler than it really is.

There are laser temperature sensors available through SRP controls, which can allow a property owner to find the cold spots and air gaps that might require additional insulation.  That might include some insulation in crawl spaces of basements to improve the temperature of the floor.  However, it is also important to consider the operation of the heating system when trying to address overall comfort.  Regular inspections can result in serious cost savings throughout the year.  Make sure filters are clean, and valves are stroking properly. One easy, and very quick method of assessing your system is to monitor temperatures of the heating water or hot air.

The Optris Lasersight infrared handheld meter is a great tool for those who want to quickly asses and inspect a home heating system. Pipes can be scanned to ensure that flow rates are correct.  Heat exchangers can be inspected by measuring return air temperatures and, in turn, to determine the delta T between those and the supply air temperatures. This delta will give a good picture of the quality of combustion occurring in the system and can be used to determine if the heat exchangers need cleaning.