Heat Loss Study 

A heat loss study, also known as a heat load calculation, is an analysis used to determine how much heat a home loses and how much heating is required to keep it comfortable. Instead of guessing or relying on outdated rules of thumb, this study evaluates factors such as insulation levels, air leakage, window performance, home size, and local climate conditions to calculate the exact amount of heat your home needs on the coldest days.

In Western Washington’s damp, marine climate, homes often lose heat in ways that aren’t obvious, leading to cold rooms, high energy bills, and inefficient heating systems. A heat loss study takes the guesswork out of the equation and gives you clear, data-driven answers.

For homeowners, a heat loss study provides several important benefits. It ensures that heating systems are properly sized preventing the common problems of oversized systems that waste energy or undersized systems that struggle to keep up. It can also reveal hidden inefficiencies, such as poor insulation or air leaks, that may be driving up energy bills and reducing comfort. By identifying where heat is being lost, homeowners can make targeted improvements that lead to more consistent indoor temperatures, lower utility costs, and a more comfortable living environment. Ultimately, a heat loss study takes the guesswork out of home heating and helps you make smarter, more cost-effective decisions about your home’s performance.

Most homeowners don’t care about “heat load calculations.” They care about:

Thermal imaging display showing temperature readings with a crosshair at the center, featuring a color scale from blue to red indicating temperature variations, with specific temperatures of 60.3°F and 55.6°F marked.
Infrared thermal image showing temperature readings, with a temperature of 71.4°F in the center, and a color scale on the right indicating temperature variations from 68.2°F to 73.8°F.
Thermal image showing a small animal, possibly a dog, with temperature reading of 71.2°F, lying on a surface with various colors indicating different temperatures.
Thermal image of a walkway or patio showing temperature variations in red, yellow, and green colors, with a measurement of 68.6 degrees.

“Why are my energy bills so high?

“Why does one room never heat properly?”

“Why is my new system not working like it should?”

“Why is my house always cold?”

Northwest Infrared specializes in identifying missing or damaged insulation in walls and ceilings using advanced thermal imaging inspections. If your home feels cold or uncomfortable, the issue may not be an outdated heating system—it could be hidden insulation gaps or air leaks allowing heat to escape. Our technology allows us to see what’s happening behind the walls, helping pinpoint problem areas so they can be corrected efficiently, improving comfort, energy efficiency, and overall home performance.

The Northwest Infrared Difference

WA Energy Code Air Leakage testing Blower Door Testing by Northwest Infrared

While other companies rely solely on software estimates. Northwest Infrared combines calculation and diagnostics to give you a complete picture of your homes heat.

✔ Building science–driven approach

✔ Integration with blower door testing & infrared inspections

✔ Clear, easy-to-understand recommendations

✔ Focus on real solutions—not just numbers

We help you create a more comfortable, energy efficient home while lowering your energy costs

Why It Matters for Builders & Contractors

For builders, a heat loss study ensures your project meets performance expectations from the start. It provides the data needed to properly size HVAC systems, avoid callbacks, and deliver homes that meet energy code requirements and homeowner expectations.

When paired with blower door testing and air sealing strategies, it helps you build tighter, more efficient homes that stand out in today’s market.

  • "My house has never felt so comfortable. I should have called you a long time ago"

    Cindy Martinson

  • "As a Builder, I know how important it is to work with a professional who delivers on his promises."

    Mark DeAndrea

  • "Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others."

    Anthony Mandt

  • I was so worried, but they helped me pass my blower door test and get occupancy on my house, just in time to move in and celebrate Christmas with my family. Thanks Northwest Infrared!

    Gayle Klassen

Let’s Work Together

If you're interested in working with us, complete the form with a few details about your project. We'll review your message and get back to you within 24 hours.

Two construction workers, a woman and a man wearing a yellow hard hat, are inspecting construction plans at a building site.