Are you confused about electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and its potential effects on you, your home, and your family?
Or do you want to buy an EMF meter but don’t understand the technical specifications and uses?
Yes? Great, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we will cover:
- What are EMFs?
- The health risks and symptoms associated with them
- EMF meters you can use to detect levels of EMFs in your environment
- Ways to protect from those EMFs
First things first
Like many, you probably already know that EMFs are not harmless. And with the World Bank estimating that over 90% of the global population is exposed to electricity, even if you do not live in a crowded city, they are likely an issue in your everyday life.
We should also note that over 80% of the countries surveyed by the World Health Organization set limits on EMF exposure, so the concerns are well-known.
However, the myths and misinformation surrounding EMF exposure make it difficult to separate what is false from the reliable information and valid concerns.
EMF Protection is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information so you can protect yourself and your loved ones from EMFs and live well in the electromagnetic world in which we now live.
Understanding EMFs
EMF refers to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields. These fields create transmission wavelengths that carry radiant energy, so they are a source of radiation. These transmission waves include radio waves, light waves, gamma rays, and X-rays.
Your home’s electrical wires and your wireless devices produce EMFs all around you. In addition, the power lines and cell phone towers in your neighborhood constantly emit EMF energy. All this exposes you to a certain type of EMF radiation.
EMF Radiation Types
There are two types of radiation: non-ionizing and ionizing.
Non-ionizing is low to mid-frequency and the more prevalent type. EMF meters mostly measure EMF from non-ionized radiation sources.
These sources can be:
- Power lines
- Radar and satellite
- Cell phones and cell phone towers
- Computers and televisions
- WiFi networks and devices
- Bluetooth devices
- House electricity wiring
- Home smart meters
- Airport scanners
- Microwave ovens
- Motion detectors
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) devices
- LED, incandescent, and compact fluorescent light bulbs
- UV from blacklights, sun lamps, and tanning beds
Increasingly, we encounter non-ionized EMF radiation routinely from multiple sources, more so than even 50 years ago. (Because of this, it is critical that scientists and health officials continuously research potential health effects as our non-ionized EMF exposure steadily increases.)
Ionized EMF radiation is less prevalent but more intense. This EMF radiation is in the mid-high frequency range, and its sources include:
- UV from sunlight
- X-rays in hospitals and airports
- Radiotherapy
- CT scanners
- Certain gamma rays, like nuclear energy
Aside from sunlight or particular careers that heighten your exposure, your contact with ionized EMF radiation should be lower and more controlled.
Because ionized EMF radiation exposure intensity is higher and over a shorter time period than non-ionized, it has already been conclusively linked to adverse health effects.
The Health Risks of EMF Radiation
Ionized EMF exposure health risks are well known. Ionizing radiation has many adverse reactions, including acute radiation sickness, cancer, and birth defects.
However, similar to the history of tobacco and asbestos, the current debate about non-ionized EMF radiation exposure and its effects on our health is based on competing interests.
While scientific research suggests links between non-ionized EMF exposure and adverse health effects, these are difficult to research conclusively for many important reasons, including:
- Our current level of EMF exposure is relatively new.
- The EMF radiation is low intensity, and the radiation exposure is over a long period of time.
- Exact EMF exposure is difficult to monitor.
- A sufficient control group not exposed to EMF radiation is difficult to find.
- The research conditions and outcomes are difficult to replicate.
- Too many other correlating factors can also cause similar health risks, including chemical and bacterial exposure.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) lists EMF radio-frequency radiation as a possible carcinogen. (Carcinogens are any substances that can cause cancer.)
Other studies have found possible links between non-ionized EMF radiation and adverse neurological, psychological, cognitive, and nervous system effects.
While not conclusive yet, they indicate EMF exposure concerns should be researched further and not completely dismissed.
EMF Protection has a wide range of tried and tested EMF solutions to help you Detect, Protect and Sleep in the increasingly wireless world in which we now live.
And with our guarantee, you can have FULL confidence.
Your health is too valuable to settle for gimmicks & placebos.
5G Networks
There are also scientific concerns regarding 5G networks.
Several factors mean that 5G increases environmental EMF exposure:
- 5G uses new and previously unused radio frequencies.
- It uses more direct signals of greater strength.
- Although 5G utilizes smaller towers, it requires more per area to boost signals.
- The networks are adding antennas and ports to existing towers.
While many conspiracy theories exist about 5G – including that they transmit COVID (they don’t) or that China and Bill Gates are using 5G signals to manipulate or spy on people (probably not) – these wild theories should not detract from legitimate health concerns.
Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS or EMS)
Debates around EMS continue due to the lack of diagnostic testing. However, the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has determined that EMS is “biologically plausible.”
People across multiple countries have independently reported symptoms of EMS, including headaches, tingling, and dizziness. More severe symptoms include fatigue, lowered concentration, nausea, heart and digestive irregularities, sleep and mood disorders, and musculoskeletal pain.
Although research has not yet conclusively proven EMS exists, neither has it conclusively debunked it.
Interestingly, the rise in EMS reporting correlates with the increasing prevalence of wireless networks and devices and heightened EMF exposure.
If you are concerned about adverse health effects or have EMS symptoms and want to limit your EMF exposure, purchasing an EMF meter is your first step.
Shopping for the best EMF meter to suit your needs can be overwhelming, with many different choices in models and specifications. Understanding these meters and what they do will make your selection process easier.
Understanding EMF Meters
A standard EMF meter is a scientific device for measuring or detecting radio frequencies and electric/magnetic fields for research or personal home use.
Most EMF meters read alternating current (AC) electricity, the standard current in homes and devices that is more common than direct current (DC).
Different EMF meters will also measure certain fields and hertz frequencies (the unit of measurement for wavelengths). The hertz frequency range is a significant factor when considering which EMF meter to buy.
For personal use, an EMF meter can help you identify the type, severity, and source of your EMF exposure so you can choose the appropriate EMF protection.
For example, you may discover that you do not need 5G protection, you are dealing with severe exposure to dirty electricity, or your WiFi network and cell phone are affecting your sleep.
When you understand what a model measures, how it displays the data, and where it can be used, you’ll have greater clarity when selecting your EMF meter(s).
Evaluating an EMF Meter
An EMF meter is available in two types: a single-axis or tri-axis. A single-axis EMF meter is usually cheaper but takes longer to make measurements. A tri-axis is more expensive but measures all three EMF axes at once.
Other factors include detection and data displays. Regarding these, there is no right or wrong, so you can choose what works best for you.
Detection
An EMF meter can detect radio frequencies, magnetic fields, electric fields, or a combination of the three. (Some measure all three simultaneously.)
A radiofrequency EMF meter reads the EMF generated by wireless networks and devices. There are now a number of EMF meters that can also detect current 5G frequencies.
Electric and magnetic EMF meters measure EMF from electrical wiring, lines, and devices, as well as solar panels and EMF-emitting lights.
There are also specialty EMF meters for measuring dirty electricity, the electrical pollution caused by interruptions to electrical flow.
Frequency Range
The range of the EMF meter is important because different sources use different frequencies.
Radio frequencies are between 3 kHz and 300 GHz (according to the WHO), although different devices are restricted to certain frequencies.
Home WiFi networks use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (not to be confused with 5G). LTE cell phones use the 800 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2600 MHz radio frequencies.
5G networks use higher frequencies compared to other networks. A low-level EMF meter will not detect 5G radiation.
The average power grid frequency in North America is 60 Hz, while most other countries use 50 Hz.
An EMF meter that reads below 20 Hz isn’t generally necessary for home use.
Accuracy and Sensitivity
The accuracy and sensitivity levels can make the EMF meter difference for people with EMS. Some EMF meters focus more on sensitivity and/or accuracy than others, which may prioritize being more versatile and providing powerful readouts.
People with EMS will benefit from at least one EMF meter with a low margin of error and high sensitivity. Weighted measurements, which account for the EMF levels in human bodies, can also show a clearer picture of EMF exposure.
Data Display
Some EMF meter data displays use generalized ranges with lights and color codes so the EMF type and exposure severity are instantly recognizable. Others use exact numbers and multiple readings for greater accuracy.
A few EMF meters also have audible cues for determining different frequencies or sources. These may use different tones, volumes, or sounds.
Warranty
The cost of an EMF meter is variable, ranging from $20 for low-end basic models to around $200-$500 for the more accurate scientific models.
A reliable and accurate EMF meter with valid results is worth the investment. Reputable EMF meter companies will offer a warranty, which will help protect your investment.
Finding Reputable EMF Meters
You can buy a super cheap EMF meter from Walmart or Amazon, but putting your health in the hands of those models is risky. They generally detect fewer EMF sources with lower accuracy.
EMF Protection currently offers six reputable and highly-reviewed models that can fulfill different specifications and needs.
1. FM5 Path 5G Monitor
This is the world’s first sensitive hand-held and affordable 5G millimetre wave monitor and it comes with a second antenna slot upgradeable for future mm wave technology.
Use to detect Cell towers, including mm wave 5G Cell phones, cordless phones, smart meters, Wifi, IOT, etc. Click to watch video: How to Use the FM5 5G Monitor
- Quick response time – measurements taken thousands of times per second.
- Peak and maximum signal strength shown on LED screen.
- Directional antenna enables highly accurate HF screening.
- Audio speakers allow signal identity and direction tracing.
- Low frequency module frequency range 1 MHz to 10 Ghz
- Low freq. sensitivity 1uW/m2 to >100k uW/m2
- High frequency range 24 GHz to 32 Ghz.
- High freq. sensitivity 30uW/m2 to >100k uW/m2.
- Audio range 40Hz to 16kHz.
2. TriField TF2 EMF Meter
Measures: Radio Frequency, Magnetic Fields, Electric Fields Range: RF 20 MHz-6 GHz, M 40 Hz-100 kHz, E 40 Hz-100 KHz Accuracy: RF ±20%, M ±4% @ 50/60 Hz, E ±5% @ 50/60 Hz Sensitivity: RF 0.001 mW/m^2, M 0.1 milligauss, E 1 V/m
The TF2 is a high-performance, tri-axis EMF meter that can use standard or weighted measurements for determining more precise EMF levels. It can also detect some 5G installations.
Along with weighted measurements, the EMF meter’s LCD display features large-size precise numbers of peak readings and current readings for additional accuracy.
3. Acoustimeter AM11 EMF RF Detector
Measures: Radio Frequency Range: 200 MHz-8 GHz Accuracy: ±3 dB Sensitivity: 0.02 V/m
The Acoustimeter is a fast, sensitive, and powerful EMF meter. It can detect 5G networks and both WiFi and WiMax frequencies. Because of its high sensitivity, it is useful for dealing with EMS.
Its dual EMF meter display includes an LCD screen and LED lights. It uses audio signals to help you discover the EMF source.
4. EMFields PF5 Pocket Power Frequency Meter
Measures: Magnetic Fields, Electric Fields Range: E 20 Hz-50,000 Hz, M 50 Hz-2,000 Hz Accuracy: Magnetic 50 to 2000 Hz ±10%, Electric 20 to 50000 Hz ±3 dB Sensitivity: 0.2 milligauss
The PF5 Pocket Power EMF meter is small enough for your pocket. It measures low-level and high-level EMF energy from electric and magnetic fields, including home wiring and CFL / LED lights.
The EMF meter display features an easy-to-read and color-coded scale. You can quickly determine if EMF levels are too high without comparing numbers.
5. Dirty Electricity Line EMI Meter / Monitor
Measures: Dirty electricity, Range: 10 KHz-10 MHz, Accuracy: Voltage +/- 1 VAC, Line Noise +/- 8% @ 20 KHz TO 2 MHz Sensitivity: 0.1 mVp-p
This EMF meter measures the electrical pollution in your home by testing AC currents. It plugs into an electrical socket to determine the signal interference.
The display of this EMF meter features both number readouts and a large front speaker for emitting sounds that correlate with intensity. The higher the intensity goes up, the louder the sounds from the speaker. Watch demonstration video here.
6. Dirty Electricity Noise Analyzer
Measures: Dirty electricity, Frequency range: 10 KHz-10 MHz, Input Voltage: AC 85Vac – 250Vac 50/60Hz (Accuracy +/- 1 VAC), Noise range: 1mV – 1999mV, Measurement accuracy: +/- 5% @ 1MHZ; +5% to -50% @ 10 KHz TO 10MHz
Checking the level of dirty electricity has never been easier. Simply plug in and follow the simple instructions. Click to watch short video demonstration.
It can be applied to 85-250V voltage.
Using EMF Meters for EMF Protection
You can use the appropriate EMF meter to determine which EMF protection you’ll need, whether it’s for your sleeping area or along your commuter route.
The CDC’s guide on radiation exposure recommends the ALARA strategy, which means “as low as reasonably achievable.” This three-point strategy focuses on minimizing the time and distance between you and the radiation source, or using protective shielding.
Minimizing time and distance isn’t always practical for sources like cell phones and power lines, so EMF shielding is the best way to limit your EMF exposure. EMF shielding comes in everything from paint to beanies to tents.
EMF Bed Canopy / Faraday Cage Bed
EMF bed canopies are very effective at blocking EMF. They surround your entire sleeping area, leaving minimal room for EMF exposure. To purchase an EMF bed canopy, look for size, shape, and fabric.
EMF bed canopy size corresponds with mattress size, from twin to California King. The shape comes in a dome, box, or four-poster frame.
Different fabrics also block different EMF frequency ranges, with most fabrics offering WiFi shielding.
EMF Shielding Tent
Like an EMF bed canopy, an EMF shielding tent offers area protection with even tighter coverings than a canopy.
An EMF shielding tent is portable and easy to assemble. It offers EMF protection when you are on the go at motels, Airbnbs, using an RV, or staying with friends and family.
If you are traveling around, you can use a portable EMF meter, like the EMFields PF5 or FM5, to let you know when to pop out your tent.
EMF Shielding Clothing
When you’re awake and moving around outside your home, EMF shielding clothing offers the best protection. For people worried about their head exposure, WiFi shielding hoodies and beanies are available.
Other EMF shielding clothing includes shirts, leggings, and shorts. There are even WiFi shielding bands to protect pregnant abdomens.
EMF Shielding Paint
EMF shielding paint is highly effective at WiFi shielding and 5G shielding. You can use multiple layers of paint for higher protection.
Although it is usually black, you can paint a layer of regular paint over it with a topcoat color of your choice – this will not interfere with the WiFi shielding.
EMF shielding paint also blocks electric fields, so EMF meters that can measure all three fields, like the Trifield T2, will give you the best accuracy on where to paint and how many layers of paint you need.
EMF Shielding Fabrics
EMF shielding fabrics are the most versatile form of protection and can be for a variety of uses. They come in many materials including cotton, mesh, and polyester.
You can block EMF from windows using curtains and screens made from EMF shield fabrics. You can also fashion device coverings, room dividers, and wraps.
Using a high-frequency EMF meter, like the FM5 Path 5G Monitor, will tell you which EMF shielding fabric you need and where it will work best.
5G EMF Protection
Because 5G network installation is newer, not every EMF protection product has the capability for 5G shielding. Certain brands offer specific 5G shielding products.
BlocWave® offers a 5G-shielding sleeping bag and BlocSilver® has bed canopies and a faraday tent. YSHIELD® has a selection of 5G shielding paints.
You can also buy 5G shielding fabric to make your own custom protection shields for areas and devices. If you or someone you know has sewing skills, you can make 5G shielding clothes like scarves.
An EMF meter like the FM5 Path 5G Monitor will let you know if you need additional 5G protection.
EMF Radiation Reduction for a Healthier Life
The best EMF meter for your situation will give you valuable peace of mind about your EMF radiation exposure. Check out our range of EMF Meters that we trust.
Safeguarding yourself and your family against EMF exposure doesn’t do any harm and has the potential to do a lot of good.
If you have further questions, contact us. We are a family-run business with extensive experience in this field. We are committed to providing excellent service and support – check out our ‘Great’ TrustPilot rating.
For more EMF protection products, browse our selection of anti-radiation cell phone pouches and router protection.