Our thermal imaging camera hire scheme for this winter is now available.

As part of our ambitions to make homes more environmentally friendly while helping people through the ongoing cost of living crisis, we have four thermal imaging cameras available for use by town and parish councils, or local communities on a free to borrow basis.

Applications to hire one can be made by Town and Parish Councils or organised community groups only and cameras should be used in group settings.

Cameras are available to borrow for up to two weeks. It's expected that applicants will use the cameras with local residents to survey several homes within the hire period.

Click here to access our hire service page.

Why use one?

Carbon emissions and climate change implications:

Thermal images will show up where homes would benefit from improved insulation and draught proofing.

Homes account for 22% of the UK's carbon emissions. There needs to be an urgent application of energy efficiency improvements if we are going to hit the carbon reduction targets necessary to stop runaway climate breakdown.

Our aim is that using the thermal imaging cameras will help stimulate action for homeowners to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Reducing heat loss and energy consumption:

Once you have identified areas of heat loss within your property, there are several ways that could help you reduce energy consumption and heat loss.

These include:

• Improving the insulation of the property, particularly roof or wall insulation
• Reducing air leakage, for example around doors, windows, or letterboxes

What should you do with the results?

We recommend that where the camera identifies issues, a professional retrofit advisor is contacted to ensure the correct work is suggested to remedy problems in your home.

The first point of contact should be South Dartmoor Community Energy

This service is operated by Devon County Council and supported by Devon councils. Their community retrofit advice services is the one stop shop for all things retrofit in Devon. From here you can:

• Create a free home upgrade plan
• Get advice through an advice line
• Apply for home energy grants
• Find reputable installers