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CNET
5 days ago
- Health
- CNET
I Use This Smart Device to Find Air Leaks and Keep My Summer AC Bill From Soaring
Air conditioning is one of the biggest energy draws during summer, but there are ways to keep that electric bill from skyrocketing during warmer months. Keeping the thermostat set to a consistent temperature is one, but making sure that precious cool air isn't escaping your home is another. I've struggled to maintain comfortable temperatures during extreme weather. I implemented a DIY ventilation system that brings in cool air at night and I schedule smart blinds to block direct sunlight as much as possible. Plus, I have lots and lots of fans. Although these strategies have helped, I recently found a new tool to find efficiency opportunities: a thermal camera. I got my hands on the HSFTools Finder S2 thermal camera and conducted a DIY home energy audit to look for air leaks that might affect how I cool my home. These same leaks cause heat to escape during winter, so the strategy has year-round applications for lowering energy costs. A rundown of the HSFTools Finder S2 The Finder S2 thermal camera's USB-C connection means it doesn't need a bulky battery pack, instead relying on your phone for power. John Carlsen/CNET I'll hold off on an in-depth review of the HSFTools Finder S2, as I have limited experience with thermal cameras, but I'll mention a few features that helped with my energy audit. First, this thermal imager connects to the USB-C port on Android smartphones but doesn't support iPhones. (Apple users should consider checking out the Topdon TC002C instead.) I love the option to launch the app automatically when plugging in the camera. However, the Finder S2 requires a lot of power -- draining my phone's battery by about 4% after 10 minutes. While this won't affect short inspections of smaller homes, you'll need to recharge your phone after extended use. (For better battery life, I suggest getting a standalone handheld model if you use a thermal camera often.) I played around with the Finder S2 to get comfortable with its features, mostly taking pictures of my cat. John Carlsen/CNET Even if you turn on the Finder S2's Super Resolution mode, the overall resolution maxes out at 512x384 pixels, which is lower than standard 480p quality. It's more than enough to see temperature differences around windows during an energy audit but you may need to play around with the settings if you plan to use it for creative work. Enabling the Digital Camera setting shows a view from your phone's camera on the screen with the option to save images -- but not videos -- from both cameras simultaneously. As for videos, I couldn't get the Finder S2 to work unless I rotated the image 90 degrees in the app. You can adjust the Finder S2's colors, measurement tools and sensitivity in the HSFTools app. John Carlsen/CNET I appreciate the wide selection of color palettes in the HSFTools app. My favorite color setting is "white hot" because of the high contrast image compared to other modes. The app's outstanding measurement tools tell you the temperature of the hottest and coldest objects on the screen or of a specific point you select. I love taking the guesswork out of home improvement. You can get the Finder S2 for about $250 -- although it's often available for $170 -- which is typical among smartphone thermal camera accessories like the Flir One Gen 3 and Seek Thermal Compact. While the price is good for a midrange infrared camera, remember that you might only use it a handful of times -- it's often better to pay for a professional home energy audit. (Don't forget to check if your area has a free energy audit program.) Still, the HSFTools Finder S2 was more than adequate for my DIY home energy audit. How I used a thermal camera in my home energy audit My energy audit uncovered an uninsulated ceiling corner that might explain why my home gets so hot in the summer -- time to tell the landlord. John Carlsen/CNET After familiarizing myself with the thermal imager, I took a structured approach to finding problem areas. I followed this thermal imaging inspection guide from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Read more: Stop Installing Your Thermostat Here. It's Costing You Money I started by turning off my HVAC system before shutting my windows and front door. InterNACHI's guide recommends testing on a day where the outdoor temperature difference is 15 to 20 F warmer (or cooler) than inside so I chose a rainy spring day for my audit. I was happy to see my window seals were in good condition. However, I discovered a small, drafty gap under my front door that I filled with foam backer rod from the hardware store. Fixing the air leak under my front door probably won't save much on my energy bills but it was an effortless DIY project. John Carlsen/CNET The actionable part of my home energy audit ends at doors and windows for now but there's plenty more for homeowners to look at. The Department of Energy suggests checking wherever you suspect air leaks or poor insulation, particularly fixtures, along the edges of rooms and between different building materials. While recaulking seals and replacing weatherstripping around windows are simple DIY projects, you'll need more money and time to upgrade insulation inside walls. You can check out Energy Star's Home Improvement Savings tool to see incentives, rebates and tax credits in your area. If you're a renter, consider telling your landlord about these resources.
Associated Press
04-03-2025
- Associated Press
HSFTOOLS Launches Finder S2 to Empower Professionals and Consumers Alike
Binh Duong, Vietnam, March 4, 2025 -- HSFTOOLS has launched the Finder S2, a smartphone-compatible thermal imaging camera made for professionals and consumers seeking portable, cost-effective thermal diagnostics. The device, designed for both industrial and consumer usage, integrates Live Super Resolution Technology to enhance image clarity and temperature detection in real-time. Photo Courtesy of: HSF Tools The device is easy to attach to Android phones and tablets. It can provide high-resolution thermal imaging for a wide range of applications, from home inspections to industrial maintenance. By combining affordability with advanced technology, HSFTOOLS empowers users from all walks of life to identify and address potential issues with greater ease and precision. Enhanced Resolution and Functionality The HSFTOOLS Finder S2 expands access to thermal imaging technology at a time when demand for affordable, portable solutions is increasing across industries. As more sectors recognize the practical applications of thermal imaging, companies are developing devices that provide greater accuracy at a lower cost. With HSTOOLS Finder S2's Live Super Resolution Technology—which uses neural network-driven image processing—identifying anomalies, electrical faults, and insulation gaps becomes all the more easier. The Finder S2 builds on the previously released Finder S1, incorporating improved image clarity and enhanced functionality. Homeowners can use it to identify heat loss around windows and doors, while electricians can detect overheating components in electrical panels—tasks that were once difficult and costly with traditional thermal cameras. While the Finder S1 gained notability for its affordability and ease of use, the Finder S2 introduced a higher-resolution IR camera and advanced image processing algorithms. These improvements allow users to capture more detailed thermal images and identify even subtle temperature variations with greater accuracy. Applications in Professional and Home Settings The HSFTOOLS Finder S2 is designed for a variety of applications across industries and residential use. Home inspectors can use it to identify insulation deficiencies, air leaks, and moisture intrusion, helping homeowners improve energy efficiency and reduce maintenance costs. Electricians can quickly pinpoint overloaded circuits and faulty wiring, potentially preventing electrical hazards. HVAC technicians can diagnose system inefficiencies and performance issues, allowing for more effective heating and cooling maintenance. In construction, contractors can use thermal imaging to detect thermal bridging in walls, a common cause of energy loss and mold development. Beyond professional use, the Finder S2 offers practical benefits for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. It can help detect drafts, locate plumbing leaks, and assess appliance performance, making it a useful tool for home maintenance and energy conservation. However, the device's performance may vary based on a smartphone's processing power, with older or lower-end devices potentially limiting its capabilities. A Finder S2 for Everyone The HSFTOOLS Finder S2 expands access to thermal imaging technology as demand for affordable, portable solutions continues to rise, according to industry analysts. The increasing awareness of thermal imaging's benefits in fields such as home inspection, electrical diagnostics, and industrial maintenance has contributed to growing interest in compact, smartphone-compatible devices. With a user-friendly design and advanced imaging capabilities, the Finder S2 is enabling more individuals to mitigate any problems they encounter while at work or even at home. The Finder S2 is now available, joining a market of mobile-integrated thermal imaging solutions. Analysts expect further advancements in imaging technology to improve efficiency and expand applications across new industries and consumer markets. Contact Info: Name: Jule Yue Email: Send Email Organization: HSFTOOLS Release ID: 89153939
Associated Press
27-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
HSFTOOLS Unveils Finder S2: High-Resolution Thermal Imaging in the Palm of Your Hand
Photo Courtesy of: HSF Tools BINH DUONG, Vietnam, Feb. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HSFTOOLS, an emerging leader in thermal imaging technology, has launched the Finder S2, a high-resolution, smartphone-compatible thermal camera designed for a new era of professional and consumer applications. The release marks a strategic expansion as the company leverages a growing demand for compact, high-performance thermal imaging solutions across various industries. The global thermal imaging market is on a strong upward trajectory, projected to grow at a CAGR of over 4.2% from 2024 to 2034, driven by HVAC, electrical diagnostics, home safety, and predictive maintenance industries. By aligning its product innovation with these expanding sectors, HSFTOOLS is positioning itself as a key competitor in a space traditionally dominated by larger, legacy brands. Revolutionizing Thermal Imaging with Portability and Power The HSFTOOLS Finder S2 distinguishes itself by offering a professional-level thermal imaging solution in a remarkably small package. Unlike traditional handheld thermal cameras, the Finder S2 is a battery-free device powered directly by your phone, ensuring it's always ready for use without the need for charging. Its compact size allows it to fit into tight spaces where larger cameras can't maneuver. This combination of portability and power is set to redefine how thermal imaging is used in both professional and personal settings. ' Our goal with the Finder series was to break down the barriers to thermal imaging, making it accessible to everyone,' says Jule Yue, marketing director for HSFTOOLS. " The Finder S2 is a testament to that vision, offering unparalleled resolution and accuracy in a device that fits in your pocket.' The Finder S2 boasts a thermal resolution of 256x192, a significant leap from its predecessor, the Finder S1. While this may seem modest compared to megapixel digital cameras, it's a notable achievement in thermal imaging technology. To further enhance image quality, HSFTOOLS employs its 'Super Resolution' enhancement algorithm, which upscales images to 960x720, delivering sharp, detailed visuals. This technology ensures that users can accurately identify and analyze temperature variations with ease. The Technical Edge: How Finder S2 Stands Out At the heart of the Finder S2 's capabilities lies its advanced thermal sensor, which delivers exceptional sensitivity and accuracy. With a NETD thermal sensitivity of 40 mK, the Finder S2 can detect minute temperature differences, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from detecting energy inefficiencies in homes to diagnosing electrical faults. . The device's sensitivity allows users to pinpoint even subtle temperature inconsistencies, ensuring accurate diagnoses and efficient problem-solving. The device's temperature range spans from -4°F to 752°F (-20°C to 400°C), accommodating diverse thermal measurement needs. The HSFTOOLS app, which serves as the user interface for the Finder S2, offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance the imaging experience. Users can easily capture photos and videos, customize temperature displays, and measure temperatures at specific points or areas within the image. The app also allows for the adjustment of emissivity settings to ensure accurate temperature readings on various surfaces. With 15 preset color palettes and the option to create custom palettes, users can tailor the visualization to their specific needs. This level of customization ensures that users can optimize the thermal imaging experience for their specific applications. 'We've put a lot of effort into making the Finder S2 not only powerful but also incredibly user-friendly,' explains Yue. 'The app is designed to be intuitive, providing users with the tools they need to get the most out of their thermal imaging experience.' The Tiny but Mighty Tool for All Industries The Finder S2 's design also reflects a commitment to durability and practicality. While compact and lightweight, it's built to withstand the rigors of daily use. Its compatibility with Android devices ensures broad accessibility, making it a versatile tool for professionals and DIYers alike. However, some users may find the reliance on a smartphone for power and processing to be a limitation, especially in situations where battery life is a concern. The device's battery-free operation, powered directly by the connected phone, eliminates the need for external power sources, enhancing its portability and convenience. The device's lightweight design, weighing only 0.92 ounces (26 grams), and extended operational capability of 6-8 hours on smartphones and tablets, further enhance its appeal for extended field use. The inclusion of a storage bag, USB-C extension adapter, and comprehensive warranties—1 year for the device and 10 years for the sensor—along with lifetime firmware updates and technical support, underscore HSFTOOLS' commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. What does this entail? It means enhanced mobility for security and surveillance, improved efficiency in industrial inspections, increased field accessibility for outdoor and remote operations, and cost-effective solutions for small businesses. A Vision for Smarter Thermal Imaging The thermal imaging camera market is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating a rise from approximately $3.91 billion in 2024 to around $7.70 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% during this period. This expansion is driven by advancements in infrared technology and increasing demand across sectors such as security, surveillance, industrial applications, and healthcare. HSFTOOLS' Finder S2 enters this expanding market with features designed to meet both professional and consumer needs. The company sees a future where thermal technology is as standard as digital cameras in inspection work, with integration into smart home applications, IoT (Internet of Things) devices, and AI-powered diagnostics. With Finder S2 now available, HSFTOOLS is accelerating its market penetration strategy, focusing on business growth, industry partnerships, and ongoing R&D (research and development). As demand for smart, accessible thermal imaging solutions increases, the company is set to challenge industry norms and drive innovation in a swiftly growing market. Company: HSFTOOLS
