The invention discloses a zero-value insulator detection method based on infrared and ultraviolet imaging methods, for solving the problem of detection of zero-value insulators. The technical scheme is as follows: the method employs the infrared imaging method to detect the temperature of each insulator in an insulator string, at the same time, employs the ultraviolet imaging method to detect the discharge light spot area of each insulator in the insulator string, then, according to the temperature and the discharge light spot area of each insulator, determines whether the zero-value insulators exist in the insulator string, and positions the zero-value insulators. According to the invention, the zero-value insulators in the insulator string are detected in a combined manner by use of both the infrared imaging method with the ultraviolet imaging method, such that polluted and dry insulator strings can be detected, and polluted and wet insulator strings can also be rapidly and accurately detected. The method can provide a reliable basis for maintenance or replacement of polluted insulators and guarantees safe and stable operation of a power system.