How to Measure EMF

How to Measure EMF: The Art of Knowing What You Are Studying

There are a lot of people out there concerned about electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR or also known as radio frequency (RF)).  People want to know how to measure EMF. So much so, that they purchase detectors and meters for themselves and attempt to study their own property and homes.  It is great to take responsibility for your own concerns! However, there are likely many things that could be confusing your personal assessment.

ElectroMagnetic EMF Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is organized by frequency. Generally lower frequency radiation is on the left, and higher frequency radiation is on the right. See above graphic.

The properties of electromagnetism change at different frequencies, and electric and magnetic fields behave differently along the spectrum.  A material that is transparent to visible light can be opaque to infrared light, but then again transparent to radio frequency radiation (e.g., glass).  Chrome is highly reflective to all of these frequencies, but nearly invisible to IR cameras because it reflects much more heat energy than it emits.  So how do you measure the temperature of a chromed device if you cannot attach temperature sensors (thermocouples) to it?

EMF Meter Should Detect Hot Spots – Magnetic Fields Near Electrical Panel. [Measuring 157 milliGauss (mG)]

Measuring Magnetic Fields

Meters measuring magnetic fields strength analyze the flux (changing field properties) of the magnetic field.  A meter in motion will not measure this accurately, because measurements will be artificially elevated as you move through a magnetic field.   While an accurate quantitative measurement cannot be made while moving, a qualitative measurement can be made to show places where more investigation is recommended. Walking through a building with a magnetic field meter taking real-time measurements is still an effective strategy of finding “hot spots.”

Measuring Radio Frequency (RF) Radiation

Higher than expected radio frequency (RF) power density can be just as confusing. RF can act sort of like X-rays, penetrating through many materials, reflecting off others.  This can produce apparently high power densities in certain areas and make finding the source of those RF radiations more difficult. Using separate RF meters or antennas with the capability of omni-directional AND more focused targeting can be useful in this regard.

David Sasse using Directional RF Antenna at Smart Meter

Alex Stadtner Using Omni Directional RF Antenna at PV Inverter w: Wireless Signal

If you find areas that raise your concerns it is best to refer to an expert in the field – much like a medical generalist refers to a specialist.  A qualified EMF specialist is trained specifically in the use of high quality equipment, has area-specific knowledge, and has experience with many different buildings and situations.

EMF Testing Services

If you bring your EMF concerns to Healthy Building Science, it usually makes our jobs easier by giving us a heads-up as to where to start our investigation.  Don’t be surprised if our investigation brings unforeseen conclusions! Often we deliver better than expected news and peace of mind, and no additional measures are recommended or the fix is more simple than you think.

Author (Cameron Das) Performing Diagnostics for EMF Wiring Errors – DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME