SMARTER CAMPUS MAINTENANCE IN EVERY CLIMATE
University campuses are some of the most complex-built environments in operation today, combining historic buildings with modern laboratories, student housing, athletic facilities, and utility networks. Whether located in cold northern climates or warm tropical regions, every campus faces ongoing pressures related to building performance, energy use, safety, and long-term maintenance.
Facilities Influence Student Experience and Enrollment
High-quality facility maintenance does more than support education and research: it plays a critical role in attracting and retaining students. In fact, a 2022 survey* found that 65% of students considered campus facilities a factor in their enrollment decision. Common concerns include inconsistent temperatures between buildings (39%), poor classroom climate control (27%), and the overall condition of academic spaces, which nearly half of respondents rated as being in poor condition.
Meeting these expectations requires more than budget and personnel—it demands the right tools. Flir’s condition monitoring solutions give facility teams the visibility and diagnostic accuracy needed to keep these environments safe, efficient, and resilient year-round.
*Survey conducted by Inside Higher Ed and College Pulse
Thermal Imaging + Assetlink: Climate-Specific Insights for Building & Roof Diagnostics
Thermal imaging is one of the most powerful ways to assess structural health, energy performance, and moisture risk—regardless of climate. The Flir iXX-series makes this process accessible for users of all experience levels, offering intuitive controls, rugged design, and automatic image optimization for consistently clear results. Its versatility allows technicians, facility managers, and general maintenance staff to capture high-quality thermal data with confidence across a wide range of building types.
In Cold Climates
The Flir iXX-series helps teams quickly find:
- Cold streaks caused by missing insulation
- Heat loss through poorly sealed windows and doors
- Warm roof patches signaling moisture trapped beneath snow-covered membranes
Combined with Flir Assetlink, these asset-linked thermal captures then get organized into valuable hierarchies. Through this process, teams can track seasonal degradation, compare images to historical baselines, and document needed repairs as buildings endure winter stress.
In Warm Climates
The same tools reveal:
- Moisture trapped under flat roofs after storms
- Heat pockets caused by insulation breakdown
- Air leaks that weaken cooling efficiency
- UV-driven deterioration that raises surface temperatures
Assetlink then strengthens long-term planning by mapping these findings over time, making it easy to compare storm seasons, dry seasons, and year-over-year performance.
Whether in a warm or cool climate, uncovering potential air leaks through iXX thermal inspections can address inconsistent temperatures and climate control in academic buildings—one of the main concerns in the Inside Higher Ed/College Pulse survey.
Flir C8: Fast, Everyday Inspection for Heating and Cooling Efficiency
The compact Flir C8 supports quick, accurate field checks in both winter and hot-weather conditions. Its affordable price point makes it easy for universities to equip more team members with reliable thermal imaging, enabling faster and more consistent campus-wide inspections.
In Cold Climates
Technicians can rapidly pinpoint:
- Drafts and cold zones
- Underperforming radiators or baseboard heaters
- Air leakage around windows and entry points
These insights make it easier to maintain comfort and reduce heating loads during peak winter months.
In Warm Climates
The same C8 becomes indispensable for evaluating:
- Cooling consistency across classrooms and dorms
- Duct leaks or failing air handlers
- Overheating compressors or motors
- Air infiltration that reduces HVAC efficiency
Flir VS80: Seeing Inside Structures Where Problems Hide
Hidden issues—whether caused by freezing temperatures or tropical humidity—often originate in inaccessible spaces. The Flir VS80 videoscope gives teams the ability to inspect behind walls, above ceilings, and in difficult to access locations without invasive teardown.
In Cold Climates
The VS80 helps find:
- Condensation pathways
- Deteriorated insulation
- Roof underlayment and structural weaknesses
- HVAC duct issues causing heat loss
In Warm Climates
It is equally critical for spotting:
- Moisture pockets behind drywall
- Roof decking deterioration post-storm
- Blocked drainage or mold-prone cavities
- Pest intrusion in warm, humid areas This internal visibility leads to more accurate diagnoses and targeted repairs year-round.
Flir MR277: Moisture Verification Across All Climates
In Cold Climates
The MR277 is invaluable for addressing:
- Snow/rainwater intrusion into walls and roofing structures
- Frozen moisture expanding inside building materials
- Moisture accumulation in masonry and older buildings
In Warm Climates
The tool helps teams stay ahead of:
- Persistent humidity buildup
- Storm-driven leaks
- Moisture migration behind façade systems
- Mold concerns in high-use/old buildings Its ability to pair thermal anomalies with direct moisture readings gives facility teams confidence before opening walls or scheduling repairs.
A Smarter Approach to Campus Maintenance
Whether fighting subzero temperatures, heavy storms, or year-round humidity, universities depend on reliable diagnostic tools to maintain safe, energy-efficient buildings. By combining thermal imaging, moisture analytics, videoscope inspection, and structured asset data, Flir empowers campuses in every climate to make informed, proactive decisions—turning inspection challenges into opportunities for smarter, more resilient operations.
