The lmportance of Low EMF and ELF in Infrared Saunas

What is EMF/ELF?
Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) are energy waves with frequencies below 300 hertz or cycles per second. The electromagnetic fields we encounter daily come from everyday sources such as power lines, radar and microwave towers, television and computer screens, motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens, cell phones, electric blankets, house wiring, and hundreds of other common electrical devices.
Levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF) from human-made sources have increased steadily over the past 50-100 years. Most EMF exposures come from increased use of electricity and new technologies. In the past decades, potential adverse effects from EMF exposure on human health have been an important topic of research. In fact, in California, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) created the California Electric and Magnetic Fields Program to research and provide education and technical assistance on the possible health effects of exposure to EMF.
Low ELF (Extremely Low Frequency)
Extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation is at the low-energy end of the electromagnetic spectrum and is often referred to as Electric Fields. The most common ELF field is radiated by utility power lines. You are exposed to these fields whenever you are near electrical appliances of any kind.
The effect of the electric field strength on a person’s body is defined as body voltage strength and is expressed in millivolts (mV). Out in nature, far away from electrical sources, the human body’s natural body voltage is near 0mV. It has been found that when this body voltage rises, in sensitive individuals, it can cause disturbed sleep, irritating sensations, and other ailments.
Low EMF (Electromagnetic Field)
Using ultra-sensitive EMF testing equipment, all heaters are tested to ensure safe levels of EMF. Electromagnetic Fields are measured in milligauss (mG). It is generally accepted that exposure to EMF should not exceed 3 milligauss. The EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) has proposed a safety standard of 3 mG. Sweden has also set a recommended safety limit of 3 mG. When EMF levels are measured inside an infrared sauna, EMF levels are virtually undetectable.
Are EMF & ELF Dangerous?
Potential health effects from exposure to increased levels of EMF & ELF can include:
  • Memory Loss
  • Depression
  • Loss of Energy
  • Irritability
  • Inability to Concentrate
  • Weakened Immune System
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Headaches
Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State University of New York, believes it is likely that up to 30% of all childhood cancers come from exposure to EMFs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns, “There is reason for concern” and advises prudent avoidance.
Martin Halper, the EPA’s Director of Analysis and Support, says, “I have never seen a set of epidemiological studies that remotely approached the weight of evidence that we’re seeing with EMFs. Clearly, there is something here.”
Concern over EMFs exploded after Paul Brodeur wrote a series of articles in the New Yorker Magazine in June 1989 called “The Hazards of Electromagnetic Fields.” Because of Paul Brodeur’s reputation, his articles had a catalytic effect on scientists, reporters, and concerned people throughout the world.
EMF Tests in Infrared Saunas
When testing sauna heaters, the following EMF levels are typically measured:
  • Infrared Saunas with Low EMF Heaters: < 3mG
  • Regular Carbon Heaters: 70 mG – 100mG
  • Ceramic Infrared Heaters: 20 mG – 40mG
Acceptable levels should be below 3mG.
When testing the sauna itself, the Threshold of Concern is 10 Volts/Meter (V/m). Low EMF infrared saunas average 3.4 V/m, while competitors measure 300+ V/m.
Shielded Metal Conduit Wiring
Some infrared saunas use electrical wiring run through metal conduits. This shields both ELF and EMF to ensure that the sauna is as safe as possible. In addition to running the wiring through a metal conduit, twisting the wires further reduces ELF and EMF.
Low EMF and Low ELF Infrared Saunas
Infrared sauna models can cancel out both EMF and ELF, offering the lowest and safest levels of any infrared sauna on the market. As a premier wellness solution, your health and safety are the top priority. The heaters used in these saunas are the most effective and safest infrared heaters available.
The EMF levels in premier and sanctuary infrared saunas will be mostly below 1mG when tested directly on the heater itself. Where you are sitting in the sauna, the EMF levels are virtually 0mG. The ELF levels are 3 – 5 times below the threshold of concern, while competitors are over 20 times above the threshold.
Be sure to ask when shopping for an infrared sauna if their products are both low EMF and low ELF.
Additional Resources About the Effects of EMF/ELF
  1. The American Cancer Society
  2. US Center for Disease Control Fact Sheet about EMF
  3. World Health Organization – International EMF Project
  4. General EMF Info
  5. EMF Readings From Various Devices We Use Every Day