How to Test For EMFs
To identify EMF sources and to see how powerful the source exposures are, specific testing methods and EMF meters are used. We’ll go over the four types of EMFs, which meters to use for each and how the testing takes place:
AC Magnetic Field Testing
AC magnetic field testing requires the use of a gaussmeter, which measures the strength of magnetic fields.
To ensure accurate results, it is essential to test various areas in your living and working spaces, particularly around electrical appliances and rooms that are adjacent to exterior power lines.
Devices for AC Magnetic Field Testing
Gaussmeters are the most common devices used for AC magnetic field testing. They come in various models and sensitivity levels, with some offering data logging and additional features.
Click here for our current recommendations for gaussmeters. Many can also detect electrical field strength, as well.
To test for AC magnetic fields:
- Turn on the gauss meter and set it to the appropriate sensitivity range.
- Slowly move the meter around your living and working spaces, focusing on areas close to electrical appliances, wiring, and power lines.
- Take note of high readings and identify potential sources of magnetic fields.
- Consider repeating the test at different times of day to account for fluctuations in community and individual power usage.
AC Electric Field Testing
AC electric field testing involves using an electric field meter, which measures the strength of electric fields.
Similar to magnetic field testing, it is crucial to test various locations and identify potential sources of electric fields, such as household wiring and extension cords.
Electric Field EMF Meters
Electric field meters are the primary devices used for AC electric field testing. They come in various models, some of which also measure magnetic fields or offer data logging capabilities.
To test for AC electric fields:
- Turn on the electric field meter and set it to the appropriate sensitivity range.
- IMPORTANT. Your body can act as an easy antenna for electric fields, so it’s often best to make sure you’re not directly holding the meter. Setting it on a surface is a good idea.
- Slowly move the meter around your living and working spaces, focusing on areas close to electrical wiring, extension cords and electronic devices. Take note of high readings and identify potential sources of electric fields.
- Consider repeating the test at different times of day to account for fluctuations in power usage.
Radio Frequency Field Testing
Radio frequency field testing can be performed using RF meters or spectrum analyzers, which measure the strength and frequency of RF fields.
Testing should be done around most tech devices with wireless capabilities. This includes cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, bluetooth devices and microwaves. This will help to identify sources of exposure and areas where shielding or distance may be required.
Radio Frequency Field Testing Meters
There are several devices available for RF field testing, including:
- RF meters, which measure the strength of RF fields
- Spectrum analyzers, which provide a more detailed analysis of RF frequencies and sources
- Personal RF monitors, which can be worn to measure exposure throughout the day
To test for RF fields:
- Turn on the RF meter or spectrum analyzer and set it to the appropriate sensitivity range.
- Slowly move the meter around your living and working spaces, focusing on areas close to wireless devices and communication infrastructure, such as cell towers and Wi-Fi routers.
- IMPORTANT – Make sure you turn your torso, as it may be blocking RF fields from being properly measured by your RF meter.
- Take note of high readings and identify potential sources of RF fields.
- Consider repeating the test at different times of day to account for fluctuations in wireless usage and signal strength.
Dirty Electricity Testing
Dirty electricity testing involves using Dirty Electricity meters or oscilloscopes to measure fluctuations and distortions in the power grid.
Testing should be conducted at multiple outlets throughout your living and working spaces to identify areas with high levels of dirty electricity and determine the need for filters or other mitigation measures.
Devices used for dirty electricity testing include:
- Dirty Electricity meters or power quality analyzers, which measure voltage fluctuations and harmonics
- Oscilloscopes, which provide a visual representation of voltage waveforms and distortions
To test for dirty electricity:
- Plug the power quality analyzer, oscilloscope, or DE meter into electrical outlets throughout your living and working spaces.
- Take note of high readings and identify potential sources of dirty electricity, such as energy-efficient devices and variable frequency drives.
- Consider repeating the test at different times of day to account for fluctuations in power usage.
Start EMF Testing Today
Good EMF meters won’t break the bank and will give you peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are sleeping, playing and living in the lowest EMF environments possible.
Read more about our favorite EMF meters.