Are you confused about electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and its potential effects on you, your home, and your family? Do you want to buy an EMF meter, but don’t understand its technical specifications and uses?
EMF isn’t harmless. Over 80% of the countries surveyed by the World Health Organization set limits on EMF exposure.
It’s also a concern in your everyday life, even if you don’t live in a crowded city. The World Bank estimates over 90% of the world’s population is exposed to electricity.
The myths and misinformation surrounding EMF exposure make it difficult to separate what’s false from the real information and valid concerns.
This guide goes over the facts about EMF radiation and EMF health risks so you can make informed, fact-based choices about EMF meters. It also shows you how to use EMF meters to choose the right EMF protection.
Understanding EMF
EMF refers to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields. These fields create transmission wavelengths that carry radiant energy, so they’re 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 EMF all around you. The power lines and cell phones towers in your neighborhood constantly emit EMF energy. 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
Humans routinely encounter non-ionized EMF radiation from multiple sources, more so than even just 50 years ago.
Scientists and health officials must 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 are:
- UV from sunlight
- X-Rays in hospitals and airports
- Radiotherapy
- CT scanners
- Certain gamma rays like nuclear energy
Aside from sunlight or certain 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.
Like 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.
Current scientific research suggests links between non-ionized EMF exposure and adverse health effects. The health effects of non-ionized radiation are difficult to research conclusively, however, for many important reasons:
- 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 radiofrequency 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.
5G Networks
There’s also scientific concern over 5G networks, which generate more EMF radiation by using new, previously unused radio frequencies. It also uses stronger and more direct signals.
5G utilizes smaller towers but needs more towers per area to boost signals, putting humans in closer proximity to more EMF sources. They also add antennas and ports to existing towers, increasing environmental EMF exposure.
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)
EMS is still debated due to the lack of diagnostic testing. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) determined EMS to be “biologically plausible.” Its symptoms have been independently reported by people across multiple countries.
EMS symptoms can include headaches, tingling, and dizziness. More severe symptoms include fatigue, lowered concentration, nausea, heart and digestive irregularities, sleep and mood disorders, and musculoskeletal pain.
While current research hasn’t conclusively proven EMS exists, it hasn’t conclusively debunked it either. The rise in EMS reporting correlates with the rise of wireless networks and devices and heightened EMF exposure.
If you’re concerned about adverse health effects or have EMS symptoms and want to limit your EMF exposure, your first step is purchasing an EMF meter.
Shopping for the right EMF meter for your needs can be overwhelming with many different choices in models and specifications. Understanding EMF meters and what they do will make your selection process easier.
Understanding EMF Meters
A standard EMF meter is a scientific device to measure or detect radio frequencies and electric/magnetic fields. It can be used for scientific 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 evaluating which EMF meter to buy.
For personal use, an EMF meter can help you figure out the type, severity, and source of your EMF exposure, so you can choose the appropriate EMF protection.
You may not need 5G protection for example, or you may be dealing with severe exposure to dirty electricity. Or your WiFi network and cell phone may be affecting your sleep.
Once you understand what a model measures, how it displays the data, and where it can be used, you’ll have less confusion 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 a longer time to make measurements. A tri-axis is more expensive but measures all three EMF axes at once.
Other factors include detection and data displays. There’s no right or wrong version of these factors, so you can choose which factors work best for you.
Detection
An EMF meter can detect radio frequencies, magnetic fields, and electric fields, or a combination of the three. Some can measure all three at once.
A radiofrequency EMF meter reads the EMF generated by wireless networks and devices. Although the technology is new, a few EMF meters can even detect current 5G frequencies.
Electric and magnetic EMF meters can measure EMF from electrical wiring, lines, and devices, as well as solar panels and EMF emitting lights.
There are specialty EMF meters that measure dirty electricity, the electrical pollution caused by interruptions to electrical flow.
Frequency Range
The range of the EMF meter is important as 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 generally isn’t 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 on sensitivity and/or accuracy more than others, which may prioritize more versatile and 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 used generalized ranges with lights and color codes so the EMF type and exposure severity are instantly recognizable. Other displays use exact numbers and multiple readings for more 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 eight reputable and highly-reviewed models that can fulfill different specifications and needs.
1. EMF Meter: EMFields Acousticom 2 Microwave Radiation Detector
Measures: Radio Frequency Range: 200 mHz-8 GHz Accuracy: ± 6dB Sensitivity: 0.01 to 6.0 V/m
The Acousticom EMF meter is portable enough for your pocket. It features signal analysis to help you determine the EMF source, whether it’s a cellphone tower or your car’s Bluetooth system.
Instead of comparing numbers, the EMF meter display is color-coded to instantly alert you if EMF levels are safe, cautionary, or unhealthy. Its extra sensitive detection is helpful for people with EMS.
2. EMF Meter: EPE Conseil ESI 24 EMF Monitor
Measures: Radio Frequency, Magnetic Fields, Electric Fields Range: RF 50 MHz-10 GHz, M 16 Hz-3 KHz, E 16 Hz-3 KHz Accuracy: NA Sensitivity: NA
The ESI 24 is a durable EMF meter for indoor or outdoor use. It can indicate exposure in all three fields simultaneously, and in both low and high frequencies.
The EMF meter display includes both lights and sound to help you easily determine the exposure levels and frequency range. Because it detects but doesn’t measure, it does not display exact numbers.
3. EMF Meter: 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.
4. EMF Meter: 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.
5. EMF Meter: Safe and Sound Pro II RF Meter
Measures: Radio Frequency Range: 400 MHz-7.2 GHz Accuracy: ±6dB Sensitivity: 0.001 µW/m²
The Safe and Sound Pro II is a small EMF meter with a wide range. It detects 5G and additional signals from 200 MHz- 8GHz, and was designed specifically for people with EMS.
The EMF meter display combines visual and auditory cues to indicate safe-extreme EMF levels and the source of the EMF radiation. It also displays number readouts of the peak, average, and current levels.
6. EMF Meter: 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 (like the name implies). 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.
7. EMF Meter: 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.
8. EMF Meter: Gigahertz RF-Analyser HF35C
Measures: Radio Frequency Range: 800 MHz- 2.7 GHz Accuracy: ±6 dB Sensitivity: 0.1 µW/m²
The HF35C is a highly accurate EMF meter that comes with a foldable antenna for multi-directional versatility and discovering the harder-to-find EMF sources. It also has high sensitivity.
Along with the detailed display, this EMF meter offers an auditory analysis of the different EMF sources, categorized by specific sounds found on their website.
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
An EMF bed canopy is 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’re on the go at motels, Airbnbs, using an RV, or staying with friends and family.
If you’re traveling around, you can use a portable EMF meter like Acousticom and EMFields PF5 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 stomachs.
An EMF meter with strong WiFi detection capabilities like the Acoustimeter will show what RF radiation is in your environment. If you live near power lines and stations, a wide-range EMF meter like the Safe and Sound Pro II will also be useful.
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’s usually black, you can paint a layer of regular paint over it with a topcoat color of your choice. It won’t interfere with the WiFi shielding.
EMF shielding paint also blocks electric fields, so EMF meters that can measure all three fields like the Conseil ESI and 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 Acousticom 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 with a 5G monitor like Safe and Sound Pro II or Acoustimeter will let you know if you need additional 5G protection.
EMF Radiation Free for a Healthier Life
The right EMF meter will give you valuable peace of mind about your EMF radiation exposure. Safeguarding yourself and your family against EMF exposure doesn’t do any harm, and has the potential to do a lot of good.
You deserve a healthy, risk-free life, even when surrounded by technology. For more EMF protection products, browse our selection of anti-radiation cell phone pouches.