12 Essential Considerations Before Buying a Thermal Camera
Investing in a FLIR Thermal Camera is a game-changer for professionals across various industries. Whether you're in:
✔ HVAC
✔ Electrical maintenance
✔ Energy auditing
✔ Industrial inspections
So, what should you look for when buying a thermal camera?
1. Prioritise Image Quality and Measurement Accuracy
- Get the best infrared camera your budget allows for top image quality and accuracy
When it comes to Thermal Cameras, resolution matters. Higher resolution detectors produce clearer thermal images, allowing for precise analysis. A FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera with a 640 x 480 detector offers significantly better clarity than an 80 x 60 model. Always prioritise a camera with superior resolution within your budget to ensure accurate measurements.
2. Look for a Built-in Visible-Light Camera
- Choose a system with a visible-light camera, illuminator lamp, and laser pointer
A high-quality FLIR Thermal Camera should include a built-in visible-light camera, an illuminator lamp, and a laser pointer. These features improve documentation by taking clear reference images with thermal readings. This makes it easier to share findings with your customers, boss, or team members.
3. Ensure Repeatable and Accurate Temperature Readings
- Ensure your camera delivers precise, repeatable results every time!
Precision is everything in thermal imaging. FLIR Thermal Cameras maintain an industry-standard accuracy of ±2% (or 3.6°F). Additionally, in-camera tools for adjusting emissivity and reflected temperature ensure that temperature measurements remain consistent and reliable across different surfaces and environments.
4. Choose a Camera with Standardised File Formats
- Pick an IR camera that saves files in widely supported formats
Some Infrared Cameras store images in proprietary formats, requiring additional software for analysis. FLIR Thermal Cameras provide radiometric JPEGs, which retain full temperature data while allowing for easy sharing and reporting. This ensures a seamless workflow when analysing thermal images.
5. Leverage Bluetooth-Enabled Meter Integration
- Opt for a camera offering BT connection to Test and Measurement meters. Gather even more electrical and moisture data!
Modern FLIR Thermal Cameras integrate with Bluetooth-enabled test and measurement meters. This feature is especially useful for electrical and moisture diagnostics, as it allows real-time data transfer, helping professionals assess issues like excessive load or water damage more efficiently.
6. Wi-Fi Connectivity for Efficient Image Sharing
- Select a Wi-Fi-enabled camera for seamless image and data sharing via mobile apps
A FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera with Wi-Fi capability allows instant image sharing to mobile devices, making reporting and collaboration much easier. The FLIR Tools Mobile app enables professionals to generate inspection reports and stream live video, enhancing field operations.
7. Ergonomics and Portability Matter
- Go for an ergonomic design that fits your workflow and makes the job easier
Comfort and ease of use should not be overlooked. Lightweight FLIR Thermal Cameras help reduce tiredness during long inspections. Models with rotating optical blocks provide better flexibility for scanning hard-to-reach areas. Touchscreen interfaces and intuitive controls further enhance usability.
8. Consider MSX and Picture-in-Picture (P-i-P) Features
- MSX and P-i-P features help merge thermal and visible images for clearer reports
FLIR's MSX technology enhances thermal images by adding visible spectrum details, such as numbers and labels, without compromising thermal data. P-i-P functionality overlays thermal images onto visible-light photos, improving clarity for reports and client presentations.
9. Evaluate Reporting Software Compatibility
- Test reporting software first - quality varies, so find what works best for you (here at Acutest we can demo Software - Just ask!)
A thermal imaging solution is only as good as its reporting capabilities. FLIR Thermal Cameras come with FLIR Thermal Studio Pro, a powerful software tool for batch processing and advanced analysis. Ensure your chosen camera is compatible with software that meets your reporting needs.
10. Opt for a Wide Temperature Range
- A wide temperature range lets you capture ambient and high-heat spots in one shot
If your work involves diverse temperature conditions, select a FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera with a broad temperature range. Cameras that work from -20°C to 1500°C help you see both normal temperature changes and high-heat sources in one scan.
11. Choose a Camera with a Strong Warranty Program
- Choose a camera with an extended warranty to safeguard your investment
Your investment should be protected. FLIR Thermal Cameras come with extended warranty options, covering material defects and calibration services. Look for warranties that include battery replacements and access to priority repairs to maximise your camera’s lifespan.
12. Invest in Ongoing Training and Support
- Buy from a manufacturer that offers ongoing support and training. This is our mantra - we are here to help you make the most of your purchase
Maximising the potential of your FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera requires proper training. FLIR offers certification courses through the Infrared Training Center (ITC), covering Level I, II, and III thermography. Certification enhances credibility and ensures optimal use of your Infrared Camera.
Key Takeaway + What to Consider!
Purchasing a FLIR Thermal Camera is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. By evaluating these 12 factors, you can make an informed decision and select the best FLIR Thermal Imaging Camera for your specific needs.
So What Should I Look for in a Thermal Camera?
A high-resolution thermal camera is a smart choice for safety, efficiency, and reliability. However, not all cameras are the same. Beyond resolution, consider:
🔹 Smart imaging features for enhanced detail and analysis
🔹 Powerful software solutions for data tracking and reporting
🔹 Extended warranties and expert support for long-term value
Need expert advice? Contact Acutest's expert team and tap into the 35 years of industry knowledge - let us help you find the perfect Thermal Camera for your application.
SPEAK TO THE THERMAL CAMERA
EXPERTS AT ACUTEST
📢 NEWS: CHECK OUT - Smart AutoCal Optics with Interchangeable Lenses!
The FLEXVIEW offers interchangeable, auto-calibrating lenses - from telephoto to wide-angle - allowing safe inspection of electrical hot spots, mechanical issues, and building envelopes with confidence and speed.
 |
 |
| DFOV toggled to 42° |
DFOV toggled to 24° |
CHECK OUT THE FLIR THERMAL CAMERA RANGE
↓ CHECK OUT A FULL BREAKDOWN OF HOW TO USE FLIR THERMAL AND OTHER FLIR TOOLS IN INDUSTRY ↓
Further Reading:
How Thermal Imaging is used in industry...
...See More, Prevent More!
Success in manufacturing is not just about making products. It is also about being precise and efficient. You need to stay ahead of problems before they occur. The right tools don’t just enhance maintenance - they transform it.
Your team can find hidden problems. You can use advanced technologies like thermal and acoustic imaging. You can also use smart test tools and inspection software. This helps reduce downtime and keeps your operations running smoothly.
Stay Competitive - See What Others Miss!
To compete on a global scale, manufacturers must operate 24/7 with zero unplanned disruptions. Predictive maintenance is the key - but it's only as effective as the tools that drive it. Give your maintenance teams top thermal imaging, smart sensors, and impressive software. This will contribute to the efficient and reliable operation of your facility.
No More Guesswork - Just Clear, Actionable Insights!
Hidden problems don't have to mean unseen problems. Take electrical cabinets, for example - faults can lurk behind closed doors, invisible to the naked eye. With the right technology, like infrared (IR) windows, your team can safely check live electrical systems. This means you can avoid opening panels, which reduces risk and increases efficiency.
CHECK OUT FLIR IR WINDOWS FEATURED IN THE ABOVE
See the Problem - Solve It Faster!
Some of the worst equipment failures begin with small, hidden warning signs. This can be a motor that runs a bit hotter than others, a slight change in vibration, or a loose electrical connection.
With thermal and acoustic imaging, your team can literally see failure before it happens:
✔ Spot overheating wires and failing components before they cause breakdowns
✔ Identify abnormal vibrations that signal impending mechanical issues
✔ Pinpoint minor faults before they escalate into costly failures
By acting early, you can increase site safety, reduce downtime, and protect your bottom line.
CHECK OUT THE FLIR T-SERIES FEATURED IN THE ABOVE
Thermal Condition Monitoring = A Strategic Necessity!
A single equipment failure can have devastating consequences - endangering workers, causing costly damage, and halting production. The risk is very high. The NFPA 70B code requires annual electrical inspections. Thermal cameras are the safest and most effective tool for this job.
In the UK, there isn't a direct equivalent to the US's NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), but relevant UK legislation and guidance include the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, BS 7671 (in some respects), and BS EN 50110.
Traditional temperature checks with infrared thermometers or sensors give only one reading. They do not show the complete picture. If you don't measure the exact failure point, you might miss important warning signs. This can lead to unplanned shutdowns and loss of revenue.
FLIR thermal cameras - whether handheld or fixed-mounted - are essential for:
🔹 Monitoring high-voltage systems, motors, and pumps
🔹 Detecting power imbalances, loose connections, and overheating components
🔹 Scanning large areas quickly with wide field-of-view imaging
And they don't just capture a moment in time. With historical temperature data from regular inspections, you can track trends and predict failures before they occur.
Continuous Monitoring = Maximum Reliability!
Predictive maintenance isn't just about routine checks - it’s about continuous insight into your equipment's health.
Industrial pumps, fans, gearboxes, and motors need around-the-clock monitoring, alongside routine thermal and acoustic inspections. Test and measurement tools, like vibration sensors and videoscopes, give a clear view of asset condition. They help teams find problems before they get worse.
By installing a FLIR SV88-Kit vibration monitoring system, you can keep an eye on machine health. You will get alerts if vibration or temperature goes above safe levels.
CHECK OUT THE FLIR VS80 VIDEOSCOPE IN THE ABOVE
Random machine checks without a solid predictive maintenance plan can miss early signs of failure, like:
❌ Scuffing, micro-pitting, and gear wear
❌ Subtle vibration changes that indicate imbalance
❌ Temperature shifts from component stress
So, consider whether you need real-time monitoring or a tool for predictive maintenance -Chat with the friendly team here at Acutest and we can help you decide!
Safety-First Inspection Solutions
Some assets are difficult - or dangerous - to inspect manually. High-voltage cabinets pose arc flash risks, while hidden or hard-to-reach components slow down troubleshooting.
Make Inspections Safer and Faster
🔹 Infrared windows create a protective barrier for safe live electrical inspections
🔹 Thermal videoscopes allow you to see inside tight spaces without disassembly
🔹 Handheld thermal cameras make it easy to scan hard-to-access areas
These tools cut inspection times by up to 87%, freeing up technicians to focus on other cost-saving initiatives.
The Software - Get More Out of Your Thermal Cameras
FLIR's advanced software, such as FLIR Ignite Pro and Thermal Studio Pro, takes this even further by providing:
✔ Guided inspection routes for consistent, repeatable imaging
✔ On-camera reference images to streamline reporting
✔ Seamless integration with predictive maintenance workflows
Thermal cameras also uncover hidden inefficiencies, from insulation voids and air leaks to moisture build-up behind factory walls.
And with the latest fixed cameras featuring on-device analytics and wireless connectivity, integration with existing monitoring systems has never been easier.
Empower Your Team with Smarter Solutions + In the Meantime Powerful Recourses...
By combining thermal, acoustic imaging (check out the NEW FLIR Si1-LD), and Test and Measurement technology with smart analysis software, manufacturers can change their maintenance strategies. This will increase efficiency, improve safety, and reduce downtime.
With FLIR's industry-leading solutions, you're not just detecting faults - you're staying ahead of them.
Get those extra recourses that will help you stay ahead of the game below...
COMPARE FLIR THERMAL CAMERAS
READ MORE ABOUT HOW TO PICK
THE BEST THERMAL CAMERA FOR YOU!
READ MORE ABOUT COMPARING SENSITIVITIES!
CONDITION MONITORING BROCHURE!
👉 Watch the webinar to see how top manufacturers are using thermal imaging to optimise operations.
But remember, nothing is better than talking to experts. An on-site demonstration with Test Equipment can help you solve everyday challenges. It will also help you work smarter! Get in touch to talk to an expert or book a free demonstration.
SPEAK TO THE THERMAL CAMERA
EXPERTS OR BOOK A DEMO
