Turn your phone into a thermal camera

The new FLIR ONE Pro infrared camera is perfect for contractors, home inspectors and serious DIYers to help locate air and water leaks around windows, doors, ducts, ceiling openings and rim joists. The infrared camera can also “see” through walls to locate missing insulation and detect some plumbing and electrical issues. The FLIR ONE Pro connects to Apple and Android phones and smartwatches using either a Lightning or Micro USB connector. The connector is designed to extend up to 4 mm so you don’t have to remove your phone case to connect the camera. Plus, the unit has an internal battery, so it won’t drain your phone battery like other add-on infrared devices. The FLIR ONE Pro has an optical and thermal camera that automatically “embosses” the thermal image on your screen with the optical image. So you get sharp edge detail right on the thermal image, giving you almost a 3D view of the situation. The FLIR ONE Pro has three spot meters so you can capture up to three temp regions in a single image. The meter measures temps from minus 4 degrees F to 752 degrees F. The FLIR ONE Pro sells for $400. Or, choose the less expensive FLIR ONE ($200) if you don’t need three temperature readings. The FLIR ONE has a single spot meter and a range of minus 4 degrees F to 248 degrees F. For more information, go to flir.com/flirone/pro.

Tthe triangular button near the tip that allows you to release and install blades, tool free. Speaking of blades, the XLR system has special blades for special tasks, insulation blades that cut more efficiently, standard blades with snap-off tips to maintain a sharp edge, and “tanto blades” with spearlike tips for making drywall cutouts. I like that it can be used in the extended (shown) or folded position. It feels great in the hand, slides easily into the pocket and even has a clip if you want to secure it to your belt. Available at online retailers or directly from praziusa.com for about $30.