Thermal Cameras

  1. Revised Library Hours Starting Monday, January 10

    Starting Monday, January 10, the library will change its hours due to staffing issues and COVID-19 concerns. The new hours will be in place through February 2022 and then re-evaluated. Learn more...

    In-Person Programs and Conference Room Use Suspended; Group Study Rooms Restricted to 3 or Less;  Masks Required in Library

    Due to concerns about the recent increase in COVID-19 transmissions in the DC area, all in-person library programs and use of library conference rooms are suspended through January 31, 2022. Group study rooms may still be reserved, but are limited to groups of 3 or less. All visitors age 2 and over, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask in the library (and other City of Falls Church government buildings). Learn more...

Borrow a Thermal Camera from the Library!


The library now loans thermal cameras, which can be used to see hot and cold spots in your home where air is escaping or where insulation is insufficient. The camera attaches to your smartphone or tablet and runs off a free downloadable app. 
Thermal Camera

Borrowing and Placing Holds


  • The cameras can be requested at the Circulation Desk.
  • There are four cameras: 
    • Two for iOS (iPhone and iPad devices)
    • One for Android devices using USB-C
    • One for Android devices using Micro-USB
  • Cameras may be borrowed for 7 days and may be renewed if there are no holds on them.
  • Cameras may be placed on hold if they are not currently available.
  • Overdue fines accrue at $1/day. Lost or damaged cameras are billed at the replacement cost.
To reserve a camera, please visit our online catalog (search for "thermal cameras"). 

What's In the Box?


Each thermal camera comes with carrying bag, protective case, charging cord, instruction booklet, an explanation booklet for analyzing your findings, and a comment card.
 

Returning Camera When Finished


Cameras should be returned directly to the Circulation Desk and should be fully charged. Please DO NOT return cameras through the library's book drops.

Let us know what you think!  Please fill out the included comment card when you return the device.
  

Additional Information


Ways to Save


Before you spend, make sure you look for ways to save.  There may be federal and state tax credits and deductions available for home energy improvements (search the web for "energy efficiency incentives" in your state). Your home energy providers (utility companies such as Dominion Virginia Power or Washington Gas) may also offer rebates and even cash payments, as well as energy saving ideas.
   

Funding for Cameras


The thermal cameras have been generously donated by the Village Preservation and Improvement Society. Additional thanks to Dominion Camera and the Energy Transition Subcommittee of the Environmental Sustainability Council of Falls Church.
 

Questions?


Submit question to the City's Environmental Programs Coordinator at environment@fallschurchva.gov, or check fallschurchva.gov/ThermalCameras.