Electromagnetic fields exist in various forms in the environment. From cell phones, routers, household appliances, and even power lines, we are surrounded by electromagnetic fields. Though most exposure to EMF is not dangerous, if it is high, beyond the safety threshold, and continues for a long time, it may cause health issues. Understanding how to detect EMF at home is important for your well-being and safety.
In this blog, we will try to understand how you can inspect your home and ensure you are not exposed to unnecessary forms and levels of EMFs.
We shall also briefly explain the necessity of understanding how to measure electromagnetic fields and why it is important for a safe and
healthy home.
What Are EMF Emissions?
Before we learn how to detect EMF, it’s important to understand what EMF emissions are. EMF is energy that is emitted by different man-made sources and by people. It’s categorized into two types:
Low-frequency EMF
Electrical appliances, power lines, and other domestic wiring generate them. Their exposure is harmless for humans.
High-frequency EMF
They are produced by mobile phones, microwave ovens, wireless communication applications such as Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), and wireless communication technology like Bluetooth.
Over the last few decades, excessive exposure to some types of EMF has been linked with a wide range of health issues, such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Other serious diseases and conditions are still under research.
How To Detect EMF: The Best Methods
Now that you understand the basics, let’s explore how to detect EMF in your home. Luckily, there are some simple tools and methods for determining the level of EMF exposure around you.
Use An EMF Meter
The most familiar equipment used to measure electromagnetic fields is an EMF meter. Any of these portable devices can assess the intensity of EMF radiation in a home. These units operate with changes in electromagnetic field intensity and exhibit values in milligauss (mG) or volts per meter (V/m).
How to Use an EMF Meter
- Power on the meter and set the frequency level for its measurement as low or high, depending on the requirements.
- Tour your home with the EMF meter, where you suspect unhealthy levels of EMF, especially around electrical appliances and devices. It is advisable to direct your focus to known sources of EMF, such as a microwave oven, a Wi-Fi router, and a power outlet.
- Gather readings in various parts of the house and take measurements near the sources of the EMF.
There are basic EMF meters and more premium ones that can measure both low and high EMF frequencies. The high-end models have increased sensitivity to small fluctuations in EMF levels.
Using Your Smartphone
Smartphones are another device for measuring EMF. The problem with EMF detection is that it has become very diverse in recent years. While not as precise as a dedicated EMF meter, they are a good starting point for learning how to detect EMF on a budget.
Different applications have been created to help you measure electromagnetic fields using the phone’s sensors.
How to Use Your Smartphone
- Download an EMF detection app: Special applications, such as “EMF Detector” or “Electromagnetic Field Meter,” are available for that purpose.
- Put the phone close to possible EMF-emitting devices, such as other electronic devices or power sources.
- Observe the readings: The app will forecast electromagnetic radiation levels in your environment upon request.
Smartphone apps are more easily accessible and portable than professional meters; nevertheless, the results are, in most cases, less accurate.
Look For EMF Hotspots
Another easy method to check for EMF emissions is in areas suspected to have higher concentrations of EMF. These could be around areas with many electronic devices and power sources.
Common EMF Hotspots
- Near power outlets, where you connect your appliances
- In rooms with many electronics, especially kitchens and home offices.
- Near Wi-Fi routers and cell phones
- Smart home devices, like smart thermostats, Wireless Local Area Network signals, CCTV cameras
Inspecting these hotspots can give you a rough idea, and you might be able to measure electromagnetic fields without using sophisticated tools.
Hire A Professional
If you are very serious about measuring the EMF levels in your home, it will be better if you hire a professional EMF consultant. These experts have various instruments to accurately determine EMF emissions. They’ll also provide guidance to lower dangerous EMF levels in your home with a detailed EMF scan.
A professional inspection might be more relevant if you live close to power lines or other massive sources of EMF or if you observe a number of disorders which may be caused by EMF.
How To Protect Your Home From EMF
To diminish exposure to electromagnetic fields in your house, here are some simple steps you can take:
Establish Space Between You And EMF Sources
The farther you are from the EMF source, the less exposure you get. Try these tips:
Maintain Distance With Your Smartphone
Always use a headset while speaking, use a speaker phone, or better yet keep your phone in your bag rather than your pocket.
Move Your Wi-Fi Router
Position your router in the center of your house, and do not have it near the bedroom area.
Limit the Electronics Usage
Another way to minimize exposure to EMF in your home is to switch off electronic devices when they are not in use. This includes turning off routers at night, taking out cords on appliances, and avoiding using electronic items before going to bed.
Use EMF Shielding Products
Today, a number of products are available that claim to protect people against EMF radiation. Some of these are EMF shielding paint, curtains, or even clothing that can be used to avoid EMF exposure.
Use Wireless Devices Minimally
If possible, replace wireless equipment with wired connections, as they produce far less EMF. Avoid using wireless connections; instead, use a wire, such as Ethernet, to connect your computer to the Internet.
Conclusion
Understanding how to detect EMF in your home is essential for ensuring your family’s health and safety. Whether you use an EMF meter or your smartphone or hire a consultation with an experienced EMF expert, you can discover areas where EMF lurks and find measures to decrease it.
The mobile apps also teach you how to detect EMF, suggest actions to reduce EMF release, and introduce appropriate measures to make your home safe and healthy.
If you or someone you know wants to learn more about EMF in your home or how to detect EMF, call Orange and South Coast Property Services now. Our team of professionals can evaluate your property, explain your EMF rating, and make recommendations on how you can lower your exposure. Save your home and yourself by getting your EMF checkup now from professionals.