Borescope – HVAC Glossary
A borescope is a flexible or rigid optical inspection tool with a camera and light that allows technicians to visually examine hard-to-reach areas inside HVAC systems, engines, and other equipment without disassembly.
A borescope is a specialized inspection instrument used by HVAC technicians to visually examine internal components of heating and cooling systems without taking them apart. This tool consists of a long, narrow tube equipped with a camera, light source, and viewing screen that allows professionals to see inside tight spaces, pipes, ducts, and equipment chambers that would otherwise be inaccessible.
How Borescopes Work
Modern borescopes come in two main types: rigid and flexible. Rigid borescopes feature a straight tube with fixed optics, ideal for examining straight pathways and chambers. Flexible borescopes use fiber optics or digital cameras mounted on articulating cables that can bend and navigate around corners, making them perfect for inspecting curved ductwork, heat exchangers, and complex mechanical assemblies.
The camera lens captures real-time video or still images, which appear on a display screen or connect to a smartphone or tablet. Built-in LED lights illuminate dark interior spaces, revealing details that would be impossible to see with the naked eye.
Common HVAC Applications
HVAC technicians rely on borescopes for numerous inspection tasks:
- Examining heat exchanger surfaces for cracks, corrosion, or carbon buildup that could indicate safety hazards
- Inspecting inside ductwork for blockages, mold growth, or damage without removing panels
- Checking burner assemblies and combustion chambers for proper operation
- Evaluating condensate drain lines for clogs or biological growth
- Assessing blower wheel condition and cleanliness
- Verifying proper installation of components in tight spaces
Benefits for Homeowners
When your HVAC technician uses a borescope during maintenance visits, you benefit from more accurate diagnostics without invasive procedures. The tool allows professionals to identify problems early, often before they cause system failures. This non-destructive inspection method saves time and money by eliminating unnecessary disassembly and reducing labor costs.
Many technicians can show homeowners the recorded images or video, providing visual proof of conditions inside the system. This transparency helps you make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance priorities.
Professional Inspection Tool
Quality borescopes represent a significant investment for HVAC companies, with professional models ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The technology continues to advance, with newer models offering higher resolution cameras, wireless connectivity, and improved articulation controls that make inspections faster and more thorough.
