Checking your water heater exhaust levels with an infrared camera can be a useful technique for identifying potential issues with your water heater and ensuring safety. Here's how it works and why it's important:

1. **Infrared Camera**: An infrared camera, also known as a thermal imaging camera, detects temperature variations in the objects it scans. This technology can help identify hot or cold spots that may indicate problems with your water heater.

2. **Gas Water Heaters**: Gas water heaters use combustion to heat water. The exhaust from this combustion process should be safely vented outside your home. Using an infrared camera, you can visually inspect the exhaust pipe or flue to ensure that it is properly expelling hot gases.

3. **Potential Issues**: Checking the exhaust levels with an infrared camera can help you identify issues such as: 

 **Blockages**: Any blockage or restriction in the exhaust pipe can cause dangerous gases, like carbon monoxide, to back up into your home. The camera can detect temperature irregularities in the exhaust pipe, indicating a potential blockage.

 **Leakage**: If there are any leaks in the exhaust pipe or connections, the camera can reveal temperature variations or hotspots that suggest gas is escaping, which can be a safety hazard.

 **Incomplete Combustion**: An inefficient or malfunctioning water heater may not burn fuel completely, leading to the release of harmful byproducts. An infrared camera can help detect anomalies in the combustion process.

4. **Safety**: Checking the water heater exhaust levels with an infrared camera is a proactive safety measure. It can help you identify problems before they become serious, potentially preventing carbon monoxide leaks and other safety hazards associated with improper ventilation.

5.**Professional Inspection** : While using an infrared camera can provide valuable insights, it's essential to remember that it's not a replacement for professional inspection and maintenance of your water heater. A licensed technician should inspect your water heater regularly to ensure it operates safely and efficiently.

In summary, using an infrared camera to check water heater exhaust levels can be a helpful part of your home maintenance routine. It allows you to visually inspect the exhaust system for potential issues related to blockages, leaks, or incomplete combustion, contributing to the safety and efficiency of your water heater. However, always complement this with professional inspections to ensure the ongoing safe operation of your water heater.