EMF Basics
Start With the Source
EMF sources are not all the same. Wireless signals, electric fields and magnetic fields behave differently, so they need different measuring tools and different shielding approaches.
Identifying the likely source first helps you avoid buying the wrong product and gives you a clearer starting point before making changes.
Practical rule: measure first where possible, then choose the product based on the field type and location.
Common Source Categories
Most everyday EMF sources fall into one of three broad categories. Knowing the difference helps you choose a more suitable meter, shielding material or reduction method.
1
Wireless / RF Sources
Wireless sources produce radiofrequency signals from communication and connected devices.
- WiFi routers and boosters
- Mobile phones and Bluetooth devices
- Smart meters and nearby masts
2
Electric Fields
Electric fields are usually voltage-related and can occur around live wiring, sockets and powered equipment.
- Sockets and extension leads
- Live wiring and plug-in cables
- Powered monitors, lamps and appliances
3
Magnetic Fields
Magnetic fields are linked to electrical current flow and are often strongest near higher-current sources.
- Breaker panels and consumer units
- Transformers and appliances
- High-current cabling
Where to Check First
Start with the rooms and positions where you spend the most time. This usually gives a more useful picture than measuring random areas around the property.
- 1 Bedside area — sockets, lamps, chargers and nearby walls
- 2 Desk setup — router, laptop, monitor, cables and extension leads
- 3 Sofa or relaxation area — devices used close to the body
- 4 Breaker panel wall — consumer units, transformers or high-current zones
- 5 Windows facing masts — nearby masts, street equipment or neighbouring routers
Simple Source Guide
Use this as a starting point only. Field levels vary depending on distance, wiring layout, building materials, device usage and the surrounding environment.
| Situation | Likely Field Type | Typical Range | Suggested First Step | Product Direction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi router nearby | RF / wireless | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz / 6 GHz | Measure RF levels where you sit, sleep or work | RF meter / RF shielding |
| Mobile phone close to body | RF + possible electric | MHz–GHz | Increase distance first and avoid carrying directly against the body | Phone shielding / air tube headset |
| Bluetooth headphones or speakers | RF / wireless | Usually 2.4 GHz | Reduce close exposure or compare with wired alternatives | RF meter / wired options |
| Smart meter nearby | Mixed source | MHz–GHz + 50 Hz possible | Measure RF first, then check low-frequency fields if close to electrical equipment | RF shielding / assessment |
| Sockets, TV, plug leads or cables near bed | Electric field | 50 Hz in UK homes | Measure electric fields and move cables away where possible | Electric field meter / grounding options |
| Laptop on lap or desk | Mixed source | RF + 50 Hz | Check RF, electric and magnetic fields around the working position | EMF meters / laptop shielding options |
| Dimmer switch | Electric + magnetic | 50 Hz + harmonics | Measure low-frequency fields close to the switch and wiring route | Electric field meter / magnetic field meter |
| Breaker panel or consumer unit behind wall | Magnetic field | Usually 50 Hz | Measure magnetic field strength and direction before shielding | G-Iron ArmoFlex |
| Transformer nearby | Magnetic field | Usually 50 Hz | Measure before choosing shielding because placement matters | Specialist magnetic shielding |
| Power lines nearby | Magnetic field | Usually 50 Hz | Measure indoors first to see whether levels are elevated in occupied areas | Magnetic field shielding |
| Window facing mobile mast | RF / wireless | MHz–GHz | Measure RF levels at the window and inside the room | RF window film / RF fabric |
| Bedroom or home office concern | Mixed source | RF + 50 Hz | Check RF, electric and magnetic fields separately before buying | EMF meter range / targeted shielding |
EMF levels can vary depending on distance, wiring layout, building materials, device usage and the surrounding environment. Measuring first helps identify whether the concern is RF, electric fields or magnetic fields before choosing a product.
Choose Products by Field Type
The right product depends on what you are trying to measure or reduce. Wireless, electric and magnetic fields require different tools and different shielding approaches.
EMF Meters
Use meters to help identify whether the concern is RF, electric fields or magnetic fields before choosing a product.
RF Shielding
For wireless sources such as WiFi, mobile signals, smart meters, Bluetooth and nearby masts.
Electric Field Reduction
For voltage-related fields around wiring, sockets, extension leads, plug-in cables and powered devices.
Magnetic Field Shielding
For current-flow sources such as breaker panels, transformers, appliances and high-current cabling.
Best approach: measure first, then choose the product by field type. Wireless sources normally need RF shielding, voltage-related concerns may need electric field measurement or grounding options, and current-flow sources need specialist magnetic field assessment and shielding.
Not Sure What Type of Source You Have?
Send us a message with the source, room layout, distance from the area of concern and any meter readings you already have. We can point you towards a suitable product range before you order.