Electromagnetic Fields can be from both natural sources and man-made sources. We will briefly look at the most common sources around us everyday. This is meant to be a beginner’s guide to those unfamiliar with EMFs who are just learning about the topic.
In a future article we will look at ways to reduce or minimize exposure for a healthier living environment.
We have a page dedicated to recommending and researching the infrared sauna with low emf ratings.
Electromagnetic Devices in Your House
Perhaps you have heard of Electromagnetic Fields, called EMFs. But what the most common sources of EMFs you will encounter on a regular basis?
Natural Forms Of Electromagnetic Fields
Natural forms have always existed. These are invisible to us but are present everywhere in our environment. They are often a result of the natural electric changes in our atmosphere such as during thunderstorms. The natural field around the earth is what allows us to navigate by use of a compass which orients itself in a northern and southern direction. It is this same pull that is used by whales, fish and birds in their travel patterns.
What Causes EMF in a House?
Although natural forms of electromagnetic fields do not normally pose a threat, we start facing problems due to the type of wavelengths made by man. On our site we list infrared sauna emf ratings for the top rated saunas as well as some less desirable brands. Some of the issues with man-made electromagnetic fields are discussed in this article on the WHO website:
Besides natural sources the electromagnetic spectrum also includes fields generated by human-made sources: X-rays are employed to diagnose a broken limb after a sport accident. The electricity that comes out of every power socket has associated low frequency electromagnetic fields. And various kinds of higher frequency radiowaves are used to transmit information – whether via TV antennas, radio stations or mobile phone base stations.
Mobile telephones, television and radio transmitters and radar produce RF fields. These fields are used to transmit information over long distances and form the basis of telecommunications as well as radio and television broadcasting all over the world. Microwaves are RF fields at high frequencies in the GHz range. In microwaves ovens, we use them to quickly heat food. WHO | What are electromagnetic fields?>
Why do the man made forms as discussed above cause problems?
Electric fields (EF) exist when there are differences in voltages. A stronger EF will result from a stronger voltage. Related to this are the Magnetic Fields (MF) which appear when electricity flows through some type of conduit and is the greatest when the current is the greatest.
While the EF will exist even when there is not flow of current, the combination of EF and MF will create the EMFs we are discussing in this article.
How to EMF Proof Your Home?
Laptop Computers
The length of time we are exposed to computers in various forms is the primary reason for the large amount of exposure.
While EMFs are ubiquitous in modern homes due to electronic devices and appliances, the level of exposure typically decreases with distance from the source. Some individuals may be more sensitive to EMFs, leading to concerns about potential health effects, although scientific consensus regarding the risks of low-level EMF exposure is still evolving.
Wi-Fi Devices
Any device that is using Wi-Fi via a network or wireless router will generate significant amounts of EMF radiation. We have so much smart technology in our lives that it is easy to forget about how much of it actually surrounds us. Wireless devices amplify this and pose a significant risk. Many homes have over a dozen such devices running at all times.
This wireless form has been shown to cause cancer, reproductive issues and child development problems. You can protect yourself by turning off the Wi-Fi routers and devices when they are not in use. It is easy to protect yourself during the 8 hours each night by removing all wireless devices form your bedroom. Low radiation Wi-Fi routers have also come to market and should be considered. And always ask yourself – do I need this new smart technology device?
Microwaves and Televisions
These two have been around in our homes much longer than the 3 previously mentioned. Modern flat screen televisions actually produce much less radiation than older models which is a positive in the midst of all the other negative trends. However choosing one with additional smart technology such as Wi-Fi will increase the exposure.
Microwaves on the other hand emit enough radiation to literally cook food! They produces massive amounts of these electromagnetic fields. In our home, we choose to never use a microwave. If you do use yours, after starting the microwave, it is best to leave the kitchen while it is running. It is a small inconvenience that will easily minimize a massive amount of exposure.
While there are many hidden sources in the home, the above five are the most common and largest visible sources of this type of radiation exposure.
Cell Phones
Although cell phones are not measured in the same way or with the same meters as infrared saunas, they emit radio frequencies. However, the following article also seems to downplay their influence.
Cell phones may be the biggest culprit mainly due to the fact that they are carried at all times and often placed next to the ear and near the body’s brain when in use as discussed here:
Some people are concerned that radio frequency energy from cell phones will cause cancer or other serious health hazards. Based on the evaluation of the currently available information, the FDA believes that the weight of scientific evidence has not linked exposure to radio frequency energy from cell phone use with any health problems at or below the radio frequency exposure limits set by the FCC.
Key points:
- Cell phones emit low levels of radio frequency energy, a type of non-ionizing radiation.
- The available scientific data on exposure to radio frequency energy show no categorical proof of any adverse biological effects other than tissue heating.
- Public health data show no association between exposure to radio frequency energy from cell phone use and health problems. Do Cell Phones Pose a Health Hazard?
Image courtesy of: who.int