You have no items in your shopping cart.
RSS

Blog posts tagged with 'buyers guide'

Essential Tools For Efficient Home Inspection: A Comprehensive Guide
Essential Tools For Efficient Home Inspection: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on home inspection tools! At Hitechniques, we understand that a thorough home inspection is crucial, whether you're a professional inspector, a homeowner checking for maintenance needs, or a potential buyer evaluating a property. The key to a successful inspection lies not just in the skills and knowledge of the inspector but also in the quality and reliability of the tools used.

In this guide, we're excited to delve into the top tools that are indispensable for any home inspection. These tools are not just gadgets; they are your partners in uncovering the true details about a property. From detecting hidden moisture that could indicate mould growth to ensuring electrical safety, these tools help you paint a complete and accurate picture of a home's condition.

Our years of experience in the field have shown us that the right tools can make all the difference. They not only make the inspection process more efficient but also provide peace of mind to homeowners and buyers by revealing the unseen and helping to prevent future problems.

In the following sections, we will explore each of the essential tools in detail. We'll share insights on how to use them effectively, what features to look for, and how they can save you time and money in the long run. Whether you're a seasoned inspector or a DIY enthusiast, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need for thorough and effective home inspections.

 

1. Moisture Meters: Uncovering Hidden Dampness

In the realm of home inspections, one of the most critical challenges is detecting hidden moisture, a potential precursor to a host of issues including mould growth, structural damage, and poor air quality. This is where moisture metres come into play, serving as an indispensable tool in the home inspector's arsenal.

 

Understanding Moisture Metres

Moisture metres are sophisticated devices designed to measure the moisture content in various building materials, including wood, plaster, concrete, and drywall. They come in two primary types: pin-type and pinless. Pin-type metres use two small electrodes to penetrate the material, measuring the electrical resistance between these points, which changes with moisture content. Pinless metres, on the other hand, use electromagnetic signals to detect moisture without causing any damage to the surfaces.

 

Effective Usage of Moisture Metres

To get the most accurate readings, it's essential to understand the settings and capabilities of your moisture metre. Most metres come with settings tailored for different materials, such as softwood, hardwood, drywall, and masonry. Selecting the correct setting is crucial for reliable measurements.

When using a pin-type metre, ensure the pins are inserted fully and perpendicular to the surface for the best contact. For pinless metres, ensure full surface contact without any gaps or air pockets. It's important to note that metal components within walls can affect readings, so be aware of potential false positives.

 

Interpreting the Readings

Moisture metres typically provide readings as a percentage of moisture content. As a rule of thumb, a reading below 10% in most building materials is considered safe, whereas readings above 20% indicate significant moisture and potential for damage or mould growth. However, these thresholds can vary depending on the material and environmental conditions.

 

Common Applications

Moisture metres are invaluable in identifying hidden leaks, whether from plumbing, roofs, or windows. They can also help in assessing flood damage, tracking the drying process, and pinpointing areas at risk of mould growth. For homebuyers, these tools can reveal problems that might not be visible to the naked eye, potentially saving thousands in future repair costs.

 

At Hitechniques, we believe that a moisture metre is a must-have tool for any thorough home inspection. It empowers inspectors and homeowners alike to detect and address moisture issues before they escalate into more significant problems.

 

2. Non-Contact Voltage Testers: Ensuring Electrical Safety

Electrical safety is a paramount concern during any home inspection. Identifying live wires and potential electrical hazards is not just a matter of thoroughness but of ensuring safety. This is where non-contact voltage testers become an essential tool in the home inspector's kit.

 

The Role of Non-Contact Voltage Testers

Non-contact voltage testers are designed to detect electrical voltage in cables, cords, circuit breakers, lighting fixtures, switches, outlets, and wires. A significant advantage of these testers is their ability to detect voltage without needing direct contact with the conductor, hence the name 'non-contact'. This feature makes them an invaluable tool for quickly checking if a wire is live without the risk of direct electrical contact.

 

How to Use Non-Contact Voltage Testers

Using a non-contact voltage tester is straightforward. Simply bring the tester close to the object or wire you wish to test. If the tester lights up or beeps, it indicates the presence of electrical voltage. It's a quick, non-invasive way to ascertain whether electrical circuits are live, which is crucial before any repair work or further inspection.

 

Safety First

While non-contact voltage testers are incredibly useful, they should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to electrical safety. Always ensure that the tester is functioning correctly by testing it on a known live source before use. Remember, these testers are an aid to safety, not a replacement for proper electrical knowledge and precautions.

 

Practical Applications in Home Inspections

In home inspections, non-contact voltage testers are used for a variety of tasks:

  • Checking for live wires before handling or inspecting electrical components.
  • Identifying potentially unsafe wiring, especially in older homes.
  • Verifying power supply to outlets and fixtures.
  • Detecting opened spliced wiring or older wiring that may no longer be active.

At Hitechniques, we consider the non-contact voltage tester an essential tool for any home inspector or DIY enthusiast working on home maintenance. It offers a quick, safe, and non-invasive way to check for live electrical components, contributing significantly to the overall safety of the inspection process.

 

3. Thermometers and Infrared Cameras: Precision Temperature Measurement

In the intricate process of home inspection, assessing temperature variations plays a crucial role, especially in evaluating HVAC systems, insulation efficiency, and potential moisture areas. This is where thermometers and infrared (IR) cameras become indispensable tools, offering precision and depth in temperature measurement and analysis.

 

Thermometers in Home Inspection

Thermometers used in home inspections range from simple probe types to sophisticated digital readout models. They serve various purposes:

  • HVAC Efficiency: By measuring air temperature at supply and return vents, thermometers help assess the efficiency of heating and cooling systems.
  • Water Temperature Checks: They are used to verify domestic hot water temperatures, ensuring they are within safe and efficient ranges.
  • Spot Checks: Simple probe thermometers can quickly check surface temperatures around windows and doors to identify insulation issues.

 

Infrared Cameras: A Deeper Look

Infrared cameras take temperature assessment to the next level. These cameras don't just measure temperature; they visualise it, providing a thermal image that reveals variations in heat across surfaces. This capability is invaluable in several scenarios:

  • Insulation Checks: IR cameras can detect areas in walls or ceilings where insulation may be missing or inadequate, a task nearly impossible with traditional inspection methods.
  • Moisture Detection: By identifying cooler areas on surfaces, IR cameras can pinpoint potential moisture locations, which are often cooler than their surroundings.
  • Electrical Inspections: Overheating electrical components can be easily spotted with an IR camera, highlighting potential fire hazards.

 

Using IR Cameras Effectively

To get the most out of an IR camera, it's important to understand its capabilities and limitations. For instance, reflective surfaces can give misleading readings, and temperature differences need to be interpreted in the context of the surrounding environment. A thorough understanding of thermal imaging principles is essential for accurate interpretation of IR camera data.

At Hitechniques, we believe that thermometers and infrared cameras are vital for a modern, thorough home inspection. They provide not just data, but insights into the hidden aspects of a property, from insulation quality to unseen moisture.

 

4. Video Inspection Sets: Navigating Pipes and Hidden Spaces

One of the most challenging aspects of home inspections is examining areas that are out of sight, such as inside pipes, behind walls, or under floors. This is where video inspection sets become invaluable. At Hitechniques, we recognise the importance of these advanced tools in providing a comprehensive view of a property's hidden aspects.

 

Exploring the Unseen with Video Inspection Sets

Video inspection sets typically consist of a small camera mounted on a flexible cable, which transmits live images to a monitor. This setup allows inspectors to navigate through narrow and winding spaces, offering a clear view of internal conditions without the need for invasive and potentially damaging exploration.

 

Applications in Home Inspections

The versatility of video inspection sets makes them essential for a variety of inspection tasks:

  • Plumbing Inspections: They are ideal for examining the interior of pipes, helping to identify blockages, leaks, corrosion, or damage in plumbing systems.
  • Checking for Structural Issues: Video inspection sets can be used to look inside walls or under floors, aiding in the detection of structural problems, pest infestations, or hidden water damage.
  • HVAC System Checks: These tools can also be used to inspect ductwork and other components of HVAC systems, ensuring they are clear and functioning properly.

 

Best Practices for Using Video Inspection Sets

To maximise the effectiveness of video inspection sets, it's important to:

  • Navigate Carefully: Manoeuvre the camera slowly and steadily to get clear and stable images.
  • Pay Attention to Details: Look for signs of damage, wear, or other issues that might not be immediately obvious.
  • Document Findings: Capture images or videos of critical findings for reference and to include in inspection reports.

Video inspection sets are a game-changer in the field of home inspection, allowing us to see beyond the surface and identify potential problems before they become major issues. They epitomise our commitment at Hitechniques to thorough, non-invasive inspections.

 

5: Additional Essential Tools: Enhancing Inspection Efficiency

While moisture metres, non-contact voltage testers, thermometers, infrared cameras, and video inspection sets are key players in our home inspection toolkit, there are additional tools that play a vital role in ensuring a thorough and efficient inspection process. At Hitechniques, we advocate for a well-rounded toolkit that addresses a wide range of inspection needs.

 

Laser Distance Metres

Laser distance metres are indispensable for quick and accurate measurements of room sizes, window heights, and other spatial dimensions. They are far more efficient than traditional tape measures, providing instant readings with a high degree of accuracy. These measurements are crucial for verifying floor plans, calculating square footage, and assessing room proportions.

 

Digital Levels and Angle Finders

Ensuring that surfaces are level and angles are correct is a fundamental aspect of home inspection. Digital levels and angle finders offer precision in assessing the alignment of walls, floors, and other structural elements. They are particularly useful in older homes where settling may have caused misalignments.

 

Thermal Leak Detectors

Thermal leak detectors are a simpler alternative to infrared cameras for identifying areas of heat loss around windows, doors, and other potential leak points. They are instrumental in pinpointing areas where insulation may be inadequate or compromised, contributing to energy inefficiency.

 

Gas Leak Detectors

For inspections involving gas lines, a gas leak detector is a critical safety tool. It helps in identifying leaks in gas pipes, fittings, and appliances, ensuring the safety of the occupants and preventing potential hazards.

 

Sound Level Metres

In certain inspection scenarios, measuring sound levels can be important, especially in areas where noise pollution is a concern. Sound level metres help assess the effectiveness of soundproofing and the impact of external noise sources on the living environment.

These additional tools complement our primary inspection instruments, together forming a comprehensive toolkit that addresses the diverse aspects of home inspection. At Hitechniques, we believe in equipping our inspectors with the best tools available, ensuring that every inspection is thorough, accurate, and efficient.

 

Practical Tips for Home Inspectors and DIY Enthusiasts

At Hitechniques, we understand that having the right tools is just the first step in conducting effective home inspections. How these tools are used is equally important. Whether you're a professional home inspector or a DIY enthusiast, here are some practical tips to maximise the effectiveness of your home inspection toolkit.

 

Familiarise Yourself with Your Tools

Before heading out for an inspection, make sure you are well-acquainted with each tool in your kit. Understand their functions, limitations, and the correct way to operate them. This knowledge not only improves the accuracy of your inspections but also ensures your safety and the safety of the property.

 

Regular Calibration and Maintenance

To ensure your tools provide accurate readings, regularly calibrate them and perform routine maintenance checks. This is especially important for digital devices like moisture metres, IR cameras, and laser distance metres. Keeping your tools in top condition is crucial for reliable inspections.

 

Document Your Findings Thoroughly

During an inspection, document your findings meticulously. Use the video and photographic capabilities of your tools to capture evidence of any issues you uncover. These records are invaluable for creating detailed inspection reports and can be crucial for future reference or legal documentation.

 

Combine Tools for Comprehensive Assessments

Often, the best insights come from using multiple tools in conjunction. For example, use a moisture metre to detect dampness and then an IR camera to further investigate the extent and source of the moisture. This layered approach leads to more thorough and accurate inspections.

 

Stay Informed on Latest Trends and Technologies

The field of home inspection is continually evolving, with new tools and technologies emerging regularly. Stay updated on the latest trends and consider incorporating new tools into your kit as they become available. Continuous learning is key to being an effective inspector.

 

Practice Safety First

Always prioritise safety, both for yourself and the property you're inspecting. Understand the safety protocols for each tool, especially when dealing with electricity, heights, or potentially hazardous materials. Your well-being is paramount during any inspection.

Effective home inspection is a blend of the right tools, knowledge, and practical application. By following these tips, both professional inspectors and DIY enthusiasts can conduct thorough, accurate, and safe home inspections. At Hitechniques, we are committed to providing not just the tools, but also the knowledge and support you need to excel in your inspection endeavours.

 

Conclusion: Empowering Inspections with the Right Tools

As we reach the end of our guide, it's crucial to underscore the significant role that the right tools play in enhancing home inspections. At Hitechniques, our commitment extends beyond just supplying these tools; we focus on empowering our clients with the knowledge and skills necessary for their optimal use.

Throughout this guide, we've explored a variety of essential tools that are indispensable in the field of home inspection. From moisture metres that detect hidden dampness to non-contact voltage testers ensuring electrical safety, each tool serves a specific and vital purpose. Thermometers and infrared cameras offer precision in temperature measurement, revealing issues not visible to the naked eye. Video inspection sets allow inspectors to navigate otherwise inaccessible areas, and additional tools like laser distance metres and gas leak detectors further augment the inspector's ability to conduct thorough evaluations.

Our dedication at Hitechniques is twofold: providing high-quality, reliable tools and ensuring our clients are well-equipped with the necessary training and support. We recognise that the effectiveness of these tools is maximised when used correctly.

The home inspection industry is dynamic, with continuous advancements in technology and methodology. Hitechniques is committed to staying updated with these developments, offering the latest tools and information to our clients. We encourage a mindset of ongoing learning and adaptation, which is essential for achieving excellence in home inspections. Remember, thorough home inspections are key to not only understanding a property's condition but also ensuring its safety and longevity.

---

For any further advice, training, or inquiries about our products, please feel free to contact us. We are here to support you in all your home inspection needs.

How to Choose the Perfect Surveying Tripod: A Buyer's Guide
How to Choose the Perfect Surveying Tripod: A Buyer's Guide

Tripods are essential pieces of equipment for any surveyor. Designed to support laser levels, theodolites, and other surveying instruments, they ensure accurate measuring and levelling. Even the best, state-of-the-art surveying instruments cannot work optimally without the support a good surveying tripod offers.

With the various tripod brands, styles, and features available on the market it’s hard to choose the right one for you. To help you out we’ve rounded up a list of the things you need to consider before buying a tripod. Keep reading to see what they are.

 

5 things to consider when buying surveying tripod

1. Durability

 

You need equipment durable enough to handle whatever field conditions you might encounter, especially in Ireland. When considering durability, material of which the tripod is made should be your main focus.

Fiberglass tripods are strong, long-lasting, and resistant to the elements, which makes them ideal for prolonged use outdoors. The downside is the price, which is usually quite high.

Wood is a very popular and affordable option. It offers good stability and isn't affected by temperature changes - wood will neither contract nor expand when exposed to extreme temperature changes. Keep in mind though that wooden surveying tripods are usually heavy, so they’re not the best choice if you move your instrument around a lot.

Aluminium is lightweight and inexpensive, making it a great choice for jobs that require changing setups. They are also unaffected by humidity. As for the cons - aluminium surveying tripods are not completely temperature-resistant so they may slightly expand or shrink in extreme temperatures. Still they are great for setups that last a short period and in milder weather conditions.

 

2. Stability

While durability may be the most important factor when considering land survey tripods, stability is also critical. Land surveyors encounter all kinds of terrain and it isn't always flat or level. This makes stability another important factor to consider in a tripod. Stability is particularly important when working indoors on concrete or other hard surfaces to prevent the legs from spreading apart. Wooden tripods are known for their stability but it’s not just the material that determines how stable the tripod is. You need to look at parts like the tripod's feet, hinge pins, lock or steel points before you decide. All these will contribute to the stability of your tripod.

Heavy duty wooden tripod from NEDO Surveying is made out of hardwood protected with high-tech plastic coating which is more moisture-resistant than lacquer. These tripods feature brass pins, which secure the tripod’s hinges, and aluminium feet with replaceable steel points for extra stability.

 

3. Portability and weight

Most land surveying jobs require multiple setups and site changes. As such, it is important to consider the weight of the tripod because you will be carrying it around all day. When you’re looking for a lightweight surveyor’s tripod, aluminium is your best bet. High-quality aluminum tripods are both lightweight and sturdy enough for outdoor use.

Weight isn’t the only factor you should consider, though. It’s important to check the tripod’s size, folded length and the ease of use. There’s nothing more annoying (and time consuming) than a tripod's legs that take forever to fold or the clamps that won’t hold the legs properly when extended.

Also, it’s always a bonus when the carrying bag and/or strap is well made and comfortable. Makes all the difference during a long day in the field.

 

4. Height

Most standard tripods have telescopic legs and extend to optimal heights and work great for most common surveying and levelling tasks. But there will be times when you simply need a little more length. For instance, if you’re working with heavy construction equipment, you may have to elevate your machine control laser to an extra high level. In that case you might want to consider getting a tripod with an elevating column like the Crank Tripod P300 from Laserliner.

Remember! Telescoping legs are great for added height, but you still want to make sure the tripod is sturdy without being too heavy. Having dual clamps on each leg helps ensure stability while also enabling you to adjust the tripod as needed. You may also need to consider added safety features when using an extended-length surveying tripod.

 

5. Price

As with all purchasing decisions, you have to take into account what budget you have when choosing a tripod for surveying. It may not be as important as portability and durability but it is something not many can just ignore. Fortunately there are plenty of options now when it comes to surveying accessories. You don’t have to break the bank to get all the essential features. It all comes down to what you really need.

Browse our range to find a tripod that fits both your needs and budget.

 

---

Need help choosing the right tripod for your instrument? Give us a call at 01 257 2323 or email info@hitechniques.ie

Choosing the Right Thermal Imaging Camera for Your Business: A Buyer's Guide
Choosing the Right Thermal Imaging Camera for Your Business: A Buyer's Guide

Infrared thermography is one of the best methods to determine areas of energy loss from buildings, which makes it a necessary tool for many construction businesses. Thermal imaging cameras allow engineers to quickly identify regions of excessive temperature or sources of heat loss, such as thermal insulation gaps.

In 2009 Irish government introduced a legislation that requires any dwelling that is for sale or to let to have a Building Energy Rating (BER) specified. Since using infrared thermography is one of the best methods to determine areas of energy loss from buildings, thermal cameras became practically indispensable.

The best thermal-imaging cameras allow you to see and measure temperature differences accurately and from a safe distance. They are great not only for determining the building's BER but also roof inspections, assessing water damage and many other structural investigations (including tunnels, concrete bridge decking, restoration work as well as the mechanical and electrical systems).

 

How does a thermal camera work?

In the most basic of terms, thermal imaging allows you to see an object’s heat radiating off itself. Thermal cameras more or less record the temperature of various objects in the frame, and then assign each temperature a shade of a color, which lets you see how much heat its radiating compared to objects around it.

Thermal cameras detect temperature by recognizing and capturing different levels of infrared light and converting infrared radiation into a two dimensional picture. Many models have a sensitivity that will indicate a 0.2 degrees differential. This allows a perfect representation of the energy performance of the structure under known conditions by skilled operators. By using the information intelligently, building owners can assess if and when they require repair or maintenance or if new constructions reach the performance criteria. 

 

How to choose the right infrared camera for you?

With an enormous selection of thermal imaging cameras available on the market today. To find the right thermal imaging camera, you should consider these 5 features of the camera in comparison with the needs of your unique application.

 

1.Temperature Range: The temperature range of a thermal imaging camera may be one of the most important considerations. Before you make a purchase, you need to ask yourself: At what likely temperature will you be capturing images? Will there be a wide disparity in temperatures? 

 

2. Resolution: Most thermal imaging cameras have lower pixel counts than visible-light cameras, so assessing detector resolution is also an important part of decision making. The size of your imaging area and target will dictate the resolution needed. For example a small object detection will require high-resolution thermal imaging cameras.

 

3. Accuracy: Often a thermal imaging camera isn’t just used to detect differences in temperature, but also to measure the differences in temperature. In this sense, accuracy and repeatability are key considerations. Most high-quality thermal imaging cameras achieve a ±2% accuracy or better.

 

4. Image fusion: In certain applications, thermal images must be compared to visible light images to clearly present findings in temperature differences. Some thermal imaging cameras come with the ability to clearly highlight the difference between thermal and visible images, which makes image capture in these applications much easier.

 

5. Durability: the durability of a thermal imaging camera is important, especially for applications like high-end surveillance, security, and monitoring of critical infrastructure. If thermal imaging cameras must sit outdoors for long periods of time, or be moved around a rugged industrial environment, durability will be an important consideration.

 

There are many different models of thermal imaging cameras out there and choosing the right one may seem difficult at times. Assessing the 5 camera qualities listed above will point you in the right direction.

There’s no single thermal imaging camera for all applications, but there are models that will be great for a range of tasks. In order to invest your money wisely you need to take your time and really consider what features you do and don't need.

---

Need some help choosing the right tool? Talk to our advisor today - call 01 257 2323

Manual vs Robotic Total Station: Is switching to robotic worth it?
Manual vs Robotic Total Station: Is switching to robotic worth it?

Using total stations for surveying enabled contractors to measure angles and distances extremely accurately. Latest models are well designed and easy to operate with minimal training required and are a far cry from measuring tape and wooden stakes. They save time, minimise errors, and make jobs much easier and more efficient.

Upgrading your equipment usually brings a learning curve and requires time needed to get up to speed with the new tool. It also requires a big investment. So why would you want a robotic total station when you already have the manual one and a good system in place?

Read more about the fear of upgrading in our article >>

 

Differences between Manual and Robotic Total Station

There are two types of total stations on the market - manual and robotic. The biggest difference between them is that robotic models have a motor so they can be controlled remotely instead of manually.

Manual total station is a 2-man operation. The instrument must be manually turned, and the prism sighted each time. The EDM (Electronic Distance Measurement) also must be triggered mechanically each time. Robotic total station only needs 1 person to work. It pairs with a tablet and automatically follows the prism and is continuously measuring with the EDM.

With a robotic total station, you can record an average of 600 to even 1500 points in a day (depending on the terrain and other variables). With a 2-man system it's around 250-400 points per day.

A mechanical total station requires more focus on manual tasks, which limits ability to catch mistakes. With the robotic instrument, operator has more freedom and can focus on the site more, quality checking the layout. There is more time available to do these checks with the robot as there is a larger out points and more time to remeasure. This significantly increases overall productivity.

 

Taking a punt on the investment

If you're in a mid- to large-sized construction company, you no doubt feel the pressure, knowing that the slightest advantage could make-or-break winning the next big contract. In today's world of rapid development using digital layout solutions is a must just to keep up with the competition.

When we talk about investment it is the act of giving time, resources, or effort to a particular task to make it successful.In this case its investing in equipment to survey or set out with a reduction in time and resources being the objective.

At the beginning of all projects, the developer sits down to discuss the time and resources needed to complete the project. Project programmes are usually scrutinised to reduce the project span and hence reducing the labour and resources required (manpower, preliminaries, plant, etc.). There is always emphasis on eliminating errors (Quality Standards) and reducing man hours and fundamentally the labour costs.

With these objectives in mind, we compared the price of setting out points with a 2-man and Robotic Total station.

This table illustrates the reduction in total cost per layout point. It shows that investing in a robotic instrument will bring savings in the long run.

Once you have your new equipment and your team is trained, you will start saving time and ultimately money thanks to increased accuracy and productivity. You can take on bigger/more complex projects, getting a great return on your initial investment.

---

If you need some advice choosing you next instrument or would like to schedule a Free Demo, give us a call at 01 257 2323.

Choosing the Right Cable Avoidance Tools (CATs): A Buyer's Guide
Choosing the Right Cable Avoidance Tools (CATs): A Buyer's Guide

If you are working within or with the underground utilities sector or are, at any point, breaking ground, you must ensure that adequate precautions are taken to avoid risk to persons at work arising from possible underground dangers such as underground cables. Using the right cable avoidance tools (CATs) will ensure the safety of your team and help you avoid costly damage and delays.

 

So how do you pick the right cable avoidance tools?

With so many different brands offering range of products, it’s hard to decide which is the best for you and your budget. Before you make a purchase there are a few questions you need to ask yourself. 


1. What kind of accuracy do you need?

You need to consider your application and think of distances over which you would ideally like to trace. Wat about the depth of the services? Do you need to be able to measure that as well?

Average cable locator will provide you with the lateral position of any services detected and used with a signal generator can operate using the two industry-standard detection frequencies of 8khz and 33khz.

But if you need something more advanced, there are models that can emit two additional frequencies and detect signals over longer distances. They are also able to provide a depth reading.

 

2. Will you be using the CAT in isolation or with a signal generator?

Best practice requires you to always use a cable avoidance tool in contact with a signal generator. It doesn’t mean you have to but using a Genny will help you find about 50% buried services, since CAT can only detect a cable if it has current flowing through it.

Note: It is very important that you always use the correct signal generator and cable avoidance tool combination.

 

3. Are you just marking-up services on the ground or do you need to store that data for later analysis?

Any basic tool will do if you’re just marking the ground for a surveyor who will do the mapping or to avoid cutting a wire. But if you need to be able to record data yourself, you may want to look at more advance models, like the ones with the GNSS technology and software included.

 

4. How experienced are you/your employees in using these tools?

You don’t need to be an expert to use cable detection tools, however having a basic understanding of how they work is necessary for you to use a utility locator correctly. If you don’t have much experience, it’s often best to start with a simple tool and get familiar with it, before upgrading to more advanced one. No point spending money on something you won’t be able to use.

 

Conclusions and recomendations

As industry standards get more and more regulated, it makes sense to buy the best and most recent cable and pipe location technology. Still, it’s important to take under consideration all the above factors. You need to make sure to pick the tool that ensures safety but also fits your needs and budget.

---

At Hitechniques we offer a range of detection tools for every job and budget. If you need help picking the right ones for you, get in touch with us at 01 257 2323 or info@hitechniques.ie