January 26, 2026
Why Infrared Electrical System Surveys Are Essential for Facility Safety and Reliability
When it comes to electrical maintenance and facility safety, most electrical failures don’t happen overnight. Whether you manage a commercial building, operate a data center, or oversee industrial facilities, catching early warning signs is critical. Miss them, and you risk equipment downtime, costly electrical repairs, or even dangerous hazards like arc flash and electrical fires.
Routine inspections are a must, but not every issue is visible. That’s where infrared electrical inspections—also known as thermal imaging surveys or infrared thermography—deliver real value. These advanced electrical testing services use non-invasive technology to detect hidden problems before they become emergencies.
What Is an Infrared Electrical Inspection?
An infrared electrical system survey uses thermal imaging cameras to scan your electrical infrastructure for abnormal heat signatures, or “hot spots.” These hot spots can indicate problems such as loose electrical connections, overloaded circuits, or aging electrical components.
All electrical equipment generates heat, but when temperatures rise outside the normal range, it signals trouble. Infrared thermography makes these invisible issues visible—helping you prevent failures, reduce risk, and maintain NFPA 70B compliance.
Best of all, these inspections are non-contact and non-destructive. There’s no need to power down your facility or take apart panels. Certified technicians scan, analyze, and document—all while your operations continue uninterrupted.
What Electrical Equipment Should Be Inspected?
Infrared surveys are essential for any environment where electrical system reliability is a top priority—think NYC commercial buildings, data centers, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and more.
Common systems inspected include:
- Main switchboards and distribution panels
- Lighting and receptacle panels
- Transformers and capacitor banks
- Generator controls and transfer switches
- UPS systems and battery banks
- Motor control centers
- Service disconnects for motors and critical loads

Benefits of Infrared Electrical Testing
Investing in infrared electrical inspections offers major advantages:
- Prevent unplanned downtime: Early detection of electrical faults allows you to schedule repairs and avoid sudden outages.
- No service interruptions: Inspections are performed while systems are energized—no need to shut down.
- Lower repair costs: Identifying issues like loose terminals or overloaded circuits before they escalate saves money.
- Enhance electrical safety: Reduce the risk of arc flash, electrical fires, and injury by finding hazards early.
- Support insurance and regulatory compliance: Many insurers and codes (including NFPA 70B) recognize thermal imaging as a best practice.
- Boost facility performance: Well-maintained electrical systems mean smoother operations and greater reliability.
- Meet NYC electrical safety standards: Stay ahead of local laws and compliance requirements (Local Law 88, 97, 128).
Common Issues Detected by Infrared Thermography
Even if everything seems fine, hidden issues can cause trouble. Infrared electrical surveys commonly detect:
- Loose or corroded electrical connections
- Overloaded circuits or phases
- Faulty or deteriorating breakers, fuses, and insulators
- Poor wire crimps or terminations
- Signs of moisture intrusion or environmental stress
Clear Reporting, AI-Powered Insights, and Dedicated Client Support
A professional infrared inspection service should do more than just identify issues—it should empower you with actionable, easy-to-understand results. At ArcPoint Electric Solutions, we leverage our unique, AI-powered reporting software to deliver clear, real-time inspection data and maintenance recommendations right to your fingertips.
Our proprietary platform streamlines documentation, making it simple to access detailed thermal images, findings, and compliance notes whenever you need them. You’ll receive organized reports that support insurance claims, regulatory compliance, and ongoing maintenance planning—all designed to help you make informed decisions fast.
Plus, every client gets access to our dedicated help desk, where our team is ready to answer questions, provide technical support, and guide you through next steps. Whether you need clarification on a report or advice on prioritizing repairs, we’re here for you—making electrical maintenance easier and more transparent than ever.
How Often Should You Schedule Infrared Electrical Inspections?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70B) recommends annual infrared inspections for commercial and industrial facilities. For high-load or critical operations, twice-yearly inspections—ideally in summer and winter—are best. This approach captures seasonal variations and ensures year-round reliability.
Choose ArcPoint Electric Solutions for Infrared Electrical Testing in NYC and Beyond
If you’re searching for a trusted provider of infrared electrical inspections in the NYC metro area, Westchester, Northern New Jersey, or Southern Connecticut, ArcPoint Electric Solutions delivers. Our team combines technical expertise with a client-first approach, ensuring your facility is safe, compliant, and efficient.
We offer a comprehensive suite of services:
- Infrared thermography
- Ultrasonic testing
- Preventive electrical maintenance
- Asset management
- Emergency response and troubleshooting