Black & Decker Thermal Leak Detector [Finds Drafts, Cuts Heating/Cooling Bills]

It's been a while since we featured any gadgets here on TFTS that come
under the banner of being '�green' but this Thermal Leak Detector from
Black & Decker certainly fits the bill in allowing you to scan for
drafts that, once dealt with, could see you saving on the amount of
energy required to heat your home.

The Black & Decker Thermal Leak Detector works by detecting changes in
ambient temperature of between 1, 5 or 10 degrees Fahrenheit depending
on the settings you opt for with the device warning you when it detects
wither cold or hot spots with a blue and red warning light respectively
and, according to Black & Decker's official product page, could lead to
you saving up to 20% of your current heating (and, for that matter,
cooling) costs should you deal with the detected cold/hot spots effectively.

Black & Decker’s Thermal Leak Detector helps reduce energy costs
by finding energy leaks in your home. You’ll instantly identify
problem areas around drafty windows and doors, and uncover hidden leaks
and insulation “soft spots” around electrical outlets,
recessed lights, and along floor molding. Shine the light on the wall
and set the reference temperature. Reference temperature shows surface
deviation from reference temp. Move the light around your house. When
the temp changes by 1, 5 or 10 degrees F (user adjustable), the light
will change to red or blue to indicate a hot or cold spot.

Energy Star states that plugging the leaks and drafts in your home can
save up to 20% off your heating and cooling energy costs. Applications
Use for seasonal home inspections Find hidden leaks around doors,
floors, walls, pipes, ducts, windows and more Use to check temperatures
of surfaces you can’t touch Check to make sure your HVAC is
working properly Diagnose engine misfires Check ceiling insulation
around recessed lights Check for drafts around the fireplace Confirm
that your fridge and freeze settings are correct And many more applications.

Great for scanning your homes windows and doors whilst shouting the
almost obligatory '�set phasers to stun' the Black & Decker Thermal Leak
Detector is set for release sometime in 2009 (though at the time of
writing no specific date of release has been provided) and will retail
for around $40.