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Infrared Equipment – New or Used?

Purchasing a pre-owned thermal imager can result in significant savings over the cost of a new unit. Prices for new thermal imagers can range from under $1000 to tens of thousands depending upon features and capabilities.

With the recent introduction of several new models of thermal imagers, there are several used pieces of equipment available from private sellers and manufacturers who have taken used equipment as trade-ins. Buying an imager from a private seller can be risky as no warranty is offered and you may not know how the equipment has been handled.

Purchasers of used equipment should be aware that there are no third party repair facilities for any infrared test equipment. Consequently, all equipment must be serviced by the company that manufactured the subject equipment. Furthermore, some thermal imagers are no longer being supported or serviced by the companies who manufactured them. Purchasing used equipment from a manufacturer is generally less risky as many manufacturers do offer limited warranties and service for used equipment that they sell. Significant savings can often be realized by purchasing sales demo units that usually become available once a manufacturer introduces a new model imager.

In order to avoid a costly error, buyers should complete a formal thermography training course BEFORE they buy any equipment. Doing so will enable one to better acquaint himself with the different types of cameras available, the applications and limitations of same, and how to accurately use this equipment in the field. Lastly, the greatest limiting factor in an infrared inspection is the equipment operator. Relying on data obtained by untrained persons can have disastrous consequences. To this end, a trained and certified operator of infrared equipment is of paramount importance for accurate data collection and interpretation.

Imager selection and operation are two of the many topics covered in all Infraspection Level I training courses. For more information on our Distance Learning Program or our open enrollment classes visit us online at infraspection.com or call us at 609-239-4788.