How to Test EMF Levels from Your Red Light Therapy Panel

You've done the research. You've invested in a red light therapy panel to support your health, recovery, and performance. But many overlook one thing—electromagnetic fields (EMFs). They're invisible, silent, and, if unchecked, could undermine the wellness benefits you seek. So, how do you know if your red light therapy device emits safe EMF levels? And what should you test for?

This isn't about scare tactics. It's about being an informed user of wellness technology—especially when it's something you're using regularly and often close to your body. Let's dive into the details, debunk the marketing jargon, and show you how to correctly measure EMF exposure from your device.

Understanding EMFs: The Basics

EMFs are emitted by almost every electrical appliance—from your phone charger to your microwave. They fall into two main categories: low-frequency (ELF) EMFs and radiofrequency (RF) EMFs.

A red light therapy panel typically emits ELF EMFs because it plugs into mains electricity. These can include:

• Electric fields (from voltage)
• Magnetic fields (from current)
• Dirty electricity (aka high-frequency voltage transients)

While red light panels don't commonly emit RF EMFs (like Wi-Fi or mobile signals) unless they include wireless features like Bluetooth, it's still worth checking.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies ELF magnetic fields as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" (Group 2B), though the evidence remains inconclusive. Still, the principle of "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) is the gold standard when it comes to EMF exposure, particularly for health-related devices.

How EMFs Interact With Red Light Therapy Panels

Red light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths—usually 660nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared)—to penetrate the skin and stimulate mitochondria. However, some researchers and biohackers argue that high EMFs could interfere with cellular communication, potentially diminishing those mitochondrial benefits.

While there's no mainstream consensus that EMFs completely cancel out red light therapy's effects, people can experience headaches, fatigue, or dizziness after using high-EMF panels—especially during longer sessions.

If you're already sensitive to EMFs or using red light therapy to support recovery, sleep, or nervous system regulation, then ensuring low-EMF output is especially important.

What To Test For 

Testing your red light therapy panel entails more than simply waving a device about and praying for the best. To determine if these three types of EMFs are at safe levels, use the following tools:

1. Electric Fields (EFs)

• Measured in: Volts per metre (V/m)
• Why it matters: High electric fields can couple to your body, especially when standing close to the panel.
• How to test: Use an electric field metre. Stand at a common treatment distance (e.g., 15-30cm) and see if the panel emits more than 10 V/m, which is the ideal target for low exposure.

2. Magnetic Fields (MFs)

• Measured in: Milligauss (mG) or microtesla (µT)
• Why it matters: MFs pass through your body and are harder to shield.
• How to test: How to test: Use a tri-field metre. Aim for readings less than 1-2 mG at the treatment distance.

3. Dirty Electricity (DE)

• Measured in: GS units (Graham-Stetzer)
• Why it matters: These high-frequency transients are often created by power supply converters in LED panels.
• How to test: Use an Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Meter. Readings below 50 GS units are considered low.

Pro tip: Always test the panel in the actual environment where you use it. EMF readings can vary dramatically depending on nearby electrical wiring or devices.

Can You Lower EMFs If Your Panel Emits Too Much?

Yes, but it depends. If your panel isn't as low-EMF as you'd want, try these mitigation strategies:

• Increase the distance. EMFs drop off rapidly with distance—doubling your distance from the panel can reduce exposure by up to 75%.
• Use grounding mats. Especially for electric fields, standing barefoot on an earthed mat can reduce body voltage.
• Turn off other devices. Wi-Fi routers, laptops, and mobile phones nearby can add to your total EMF burden.
• Upgrade to a shielded panel. Some premium panels use shielded internal wiring and low-EMF transformers to minimise output.

Does ROJO Light Therapy NZ Offer Low EMF Panels?

Yes. At ROJO Light Therapy NZ, we've prioritised engineering our panels with the lowest possible EMF emissions without compromising on power or therapeutic output.

Our panels are designed with:

• Shielded wiring to reduce electric and magnetic field emissions
• High-quality power supplies to minimise dirty electricity
• Third-party EMF testing conducted at real-life treatment distances

We believe in complete transparency and are happy to share our test results with you.

Ready To Upgrade To A Low EMF Red Light Panel?

Explore ROJO Light Therapy NZ's advanced, low-EMF red light therapy panel today. Backed by expert design, real testing, and New Zealand-based support, we're here to help you confidently take charge of your health.