Published 2025-10-15
Temperature in buildings – spot the problems before the complaints come
When the cold weather comes, buildings are put to the test. Uneven heating in apartments, cold radiators and draughts from leaky windows are common problems that both affect comfort and drive up energy costs. With the right temperature measurement in your buildings, you can quickly pinpoint causes and take action – for efficient energy optimization and a comfortable indoor climate all year round.
IR thermometers and thermal imaging cameras are reliable tools for operations and building technicians who want to optimize heating, reduce energy losses and prevent indoor temperature complaints from tenants.
Accurate temperature measurement – the basis for effective troubleshooting
Identifying the causes of temperature problems in a building and taking appropriate action requires accurate measurements in several locations. The air temperature should be measured within the residence zone – the area where people normally stay. This zone is defined by two horizontal planes, 0.1 meters and 2.0 meters above the floor, and by vertical planes located 0.6 meters inside the external walls. In front of windows and external doors, the distance is 1.0 meter.
Read more about measuring points in the residence zone
A simple measurement on the heating elements provides valuable information on the status of the hydronic heating system and whether temperature problems can be traced to it. It is also important to measure the floor temperature, which according to the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning’s building regulations should never be below 16°C.
Domestic water should also be checked to ensure that both cold and hot water are at the correct temperature according to current legal requirements. Water temperatures that are too low can pose health risks, such as the growth of legionella bacteria. According to the Public Health Agency of Sweden, the temperature of domestic hot water should not fall below 50°C in the pipes.
Accurate temperature measurements and documented anomalies not only provide answers when troubleshooting or when tenants experience problems with the indoor climate – they are also an effective tool for identifying opportunities for energy optimization and cost savings in the building.
Fast and reliable temperature measurements with IR thermometer
With an IR thermometer, you can quickly and easily measure the temperature of surfaces such as radiators, floors, walls and windows using infrared radiation. Testo’s IR thermometers have an adjustable emission factor, allowing you to customize the instrument for different materials and get more accurate measurement results. Connect a sensor to also measure temperature in air and water. The wide range of applications makes the Testos IR thermometers a very useful instrument that fits in every building technician’s toolbox.
Read more about IR measurement and the emission factor
Detect heat leaks with a thermal imaging camera
A thermal imaging camera is an invaluable tool for both energy optimization and troubleshooting in offices, business premises and apartments with uneven or low heat. With detailed thermal images, you can quickly detect thermal bridges and leaks in the building envelope, for example around windows and doors where cold air can leak in.
A thermal imaging camera from Testo gives you insight into the energy performance of your property – and the right conditions for creating a comfortable indoor climate. With the compact testo 860i, you get professional thermal images directly on your mobile – quickly, easily and simply.
Energy losses caused by leaks in the building envelope are often easy to fix, but can be very costly if ignored, especially during the coldest months. By documenting heat leaks and anomalies, you will have a clear basis for planning energy measures. Identify problem areas early and plan interventions such as window replacement or additional insulation to reduce energy costs and avoid tenant complaints. With Testo thermal imaging cameras, you can easily save thermal images and analyze the results in the associated IRSoft software – for even smoother energy optimization.
Thermography course and special offer
When you buy a thermal imaging camera from Nordtec, our basic thermography course is included to help you get the most out of your instrument. Learn how to understand the functions of the thermal imaging camera, interpret thermal images and act on the results. Right now, the course (value 3,450 SEK) is also included with the purchase of the new model for mobile use –
Read more about thermal imaging cameras
The right instrument for the right purpose
For quick spot measurements: testo 830 T2/T4 – measuring set for IR and air
The testo 830 T2 and T4 make it easy to check temperatures on walls, windows, floors, radiators and more – quickly and reliably. The included mini air sensor also makes it possible to measure the air temperature in just a few seconds, for efficient troubleshooting, energy optimization and a better indoor climate. testo 830 T4 enables accurate IR temperature measurements even at longer distances thanks to its 30:1 optics. testo 830 T2 has a 12:1 optics – perfect when you can measure at shorter distances.
Complete temperature measurement for operational technicians: testo 830 T2/T4 building kit
With this measurement kit, you can perform all kinds of non-contact IR temperature measurements, such as on walls, windows, radiators and floors. By connecting the included air and liquid sensor, you can quickly measure temperatures in rooms, water or other liquids, while the mini surface sensor provides accurate and fast measurements of pipe temperatures. A complete temperature measurement kit. Choose between the 830 T2 with 12:1 optics and the 830 T4 with 30:1 optics for longer distance measurements.
Professional thermography in a handy format: testo 860i – now with promotion!
A pocket-sized thermal imaging camera for operational and building technicians who need to make quick and reliable checks. Together with your mobile phone, it becomes an effective tool for detecting deficiencies and working preventively on indoor climate maintenance. Right now: get a thermography course (value 3 450 SEK) for free!
Methods and instruments for measuring indoor climate
What exactly is a good indoor climate? On the one hand, people may have different perceptions of what is acceptable in terms of temperature and draughts.
How to assess the indoor climate in homes and offices
“It’s too cold”, “The air is really bad”, “It’s drafty” … Sound familiar? The nature and experience of the climate in different indoor environments depends on factors such as air and surface temperatures, leaks and air movement.
Practical measurement training
Sign up for our popular full-day courses on thermography, ventilation or airtightness. The courses, which combine theory and practice, are led by experienced experts.
Temperature measurement in buildings
Application: Heat leakage and energy loss in homes and offices
Measurement solution: Air and surface temperature instruments and thermal imaging with thermal imaging camera
Contact persons
CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES
Mats Landin
Area of responsibility: Construction, Ventilation, Climate control
mats.landin@nordtec.se
031-704 10 85
031-704 10 70
