Join us for an informative session on understanding and addressing dirty electricity, a prevalent form of EMF pollution. Learn about its sources, impact, measurement, and practical ways to reduce exposure. Presented by Kim Leer from Greenwave International.

Read about this class

Kim Lear from Greenwave International shared insights into the often-overlooked topic of electromagnetic field (EMF) pollution, with a special focus on dirty electricity. Kim's journey into this field began when her husband developed electrical hypersensitivity, which led her to explore how electromagnetic fields affect our health. This personal experience, combined with years of research, inspired her to help others minimize their exposure to harmful EMFs.

What Is Dirty Electricity?

Dirty electricity refers to electrical energy pollution—surges and spikes of electromagnetic energy traveling along power lines and electrical wiring. Ideally, your home should carry only a clean 50 or 60 Hz alternating current (AC). However, modern devices often alter this smooth flow by interrupting the current’s natural wave pattern. These interruptions create erratic, high-frequency energy that spreads through wiring and radiates into your environment.

Common sources of dirty electricity include:

• Modern lighting: Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), low-voltage halogen bulbs, and some LED bulbs.
• Light dimmer switches: Adjusting brightness by interrupting the flow of electricity creates electrical noise.
• Appliances with electric motors: HVAC systems, refrigerators, dishwashers, air filters, blenders, and hair dryers.
• Electronics: Computers, TVs, printers, video game systems, and devices with digital displays.
• Alternative energy sources: Solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicle charging stations can generate dirty electricity during the conversion process from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC).

Why Should You Care?

Dirty electricity can damage sensitive electronic devices and potentially shorten their lifespan. More importantly, scientific research suggests it can negatively impact health. Symptoms potentially linked to high EMF exposure include:

• Headaches
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue
• Muscle and joint pain
• Anxiety and agitation
• Heart palpitations

Studies have also explored links between EMF pollution and increased risks of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

How to Measure Dirty Electricity

There are two main ways to measure dirty electricity:

1. Using a Plug-In EMI Meter:
   • These meters are easy to use and affordable. Simply plug them into various outlets around your home to detect the level of dirty electricity traveling through your wiring.
2. Using a Portable AM Radio:
   • Set the radio to static (off any station) and walk around your home. An increase in static noise often indicates the presence of dirty electricity.

Reducing Dirty Electricity in Your Home

Here are practical ways to lower your exposure:

1. Reduce Sources:
   • Replace CFLs and certain LEDs with cleaner alternatives like incandescent or halogen bulbs.
   • Remove light dimmers and replace them with simple on/off switches.
   • Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use.
   • Avoid using electronics with variable speed motors or limit their use when possible.
2. Distance and Time:
   • Keep a distance from sources of dirty electricity (e.g., TVs, routers).
   • Limit the time spent using devices that produce high EMFs.
3. Use Dirty Electricity Filters:
   • Plug-in filters reduce the levels of dirty electricity by absorbing high-frequency noise from your wiring.
   • Install filters close to the main electrical panel and near devices that generate significant EMF pollution.
4. Shielding and Grounding:
   • Use shielded cables and wiring to limit the spread of EMF radiation.
   • Ground your devices properly to redirect stray electrical currents safely.

Special Considerations for Solar Panels

Solar power systems, while eco-friendly, can produce high levels of dirty electricity due to the conversion process from DC to AC. If you're using solar energy:

• Use filters at your electrical panel to reduce dirty electricity from solar inverters.
• Regularly measure EMF levels to identify potential issues.
• Consider consulting a professional for additional shielding or grounding solutions.

Final Thoughts

Dirty electricity is an often-overlooked factor that can affect both your technology and your health. With simple steps—such as using EMI meters, reducing EMF-producing devices, and installing filters—you can create a cleaner, healthier environment at home.

Kim Lear’s session was a valuable resource for anyone looking to better understand EMF pollution. Her upcoming sessions will dive deeper into other types of EMF pollution, including radiofrequency radiation and low-frequency electric and magnetic fields. Stay tuned to learn how to reduce your exposure further and safeguard your health.