- HEP Plumbing
- Thermal Imaging

Thermal Imaging
Thermal Imaging | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Cowan
Feeling a cold spot on the wall or a spike in your water bill? HEP’s cutting-edge thermal imaging pinpoints hidden leaks and corrosion before they snowball into costly emergencies. Our Cowan technicians glide an infrared camera along walls, floors and ceilings, instantly revealing temperature anomalies that betray moisture, blockages or failing joints—no guesswork, no torn-up drywall, just crystal-clear answers.
Once the problem areas glow on screen, we seamlessly transition to tailored pipe upgrades that boost flow, pressure and peace of mind. Whether we’re swapping brittle galvanized lines for long-life PEX or rerouting supply lines to accommodate a remodel, you’ll enjoy less heat loss, lower utility costs and a plumbing system built to serve your home for decades. Call HEP today and see what’s lurking behind those pipes—then watch us make it better than new.
FAQs
What is thermal imaging plumbing and how does it benefit pipe upgrades in Cowan?
Thermal imaging plumbing uses an infrared camera to read temperature variations within walls, floors and ceilings. Cold spots often indicate water leaks while hot spots can show hot–water line issues. Because it is completely non-invasive, we can pinpoint hidden failures without cutting into surfaces. For Cowan homes—many of which still have original copper or galvanised pipes—this means we only replace the sections that really need attention, saving you time, mess and money.
Which pipe materials can you upgrade after a thermal imaging inspection?
Once we have mapped the problem areas, we can replace or reroute almost any pipe type, including ageing copper, corroded galvanised steel, failed polybutylene and even brittle PVC storm-water lines. Our most common upgrade options for Cowan properties are PEX-A flexible piping for internal water lines (ideal for local temperature swings) and HDPE or uPVC for underground or external runs that need extra durability against root intrusion from nearby bushland.
Will the thermal imaging process damage my walls, tiles or landscaping?
No. The infrared camera reads surface temperatures from a distance, so we do not need to drill, cut or remove finishes during the diagnostic stage. If the scan shows a leak behind a wall, we mark the exact spot and open only a small access point during the actual pipe replacement. This targeted approach is far less disruptive than traditional exploratory demolition methods.
How long does a typical inspection and pipe upgrade take in Cowan?
A standard thermal imaging scan of a three-bedroom home takes about 60–90 minutes. If upgrades are required, most internal pipe replacements are completed within one to two days, depending on accessibility and the extent of corrosion. External or mains lines can add another day. We schedule work around school runs and quieter traffic periods on the Pacific Highway to keep interruptions minimal for Cowan residents.
Is thermal imaging leak detection more expensive than conventional methods?
The upfront cost of an infrared survey is slightly higher than basic pressure testing, but it almost always pays for itself. Because we locate faults precisely, we avoid unnecessary wall removal and reduce labour hours on the pipe upgrade. Clients in Cowan typically save 15–25 percent on total project costs compared with conventional ‘search-and-destroy’ leak detection.
Do I need a thermal imaging assessment if my pipes show no visible leaks?
Even if you do not see water stains or hear dripping, hidden leaks can still exist—especially in older Cowan dwellings where pipe joints have gradually loosened. Early infrared scans can reveal moisture before it causes structural damage or mould. Scheduling a preventive assessment every five years is a smart way to safeguard water efficiency, maintain property value and avoid emergency call-outs.