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EMFs and ELFs

Of particular concern is our continual exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and, in particular, to extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields in our homes and workplaces emitted by mains supply alternating current pulsating at 50 or 60 cycles a second. Although studies are still at an early stage, there is enough evidence to suggest that all living organisms react to even weak electromagnetic ELF stimuli. It is this continual exposure to these sources and the effects they may be having on us that are of present concern.

German research has shown that people vary considerably in their sensitivity to electricity and that reactions to ELFs take many forms, including high blood pressure, nervousness, and disturbed sleep. In the UK it has been estimated that as many as one-third of the entire population may be suffering adverse reactions to ELFs at one time or another. Research in the UK has also found that certain low frequencies act as a trigger to allergy patients and cause sickness, headaches, nausea, sweating, and other unpleasant reactions.

Be aware that metal pipes and radiators holding water are often the source of sizeable EMFs. Sleep away from these if possible.

EMFs and ELFs exist all the time an installation is “live”. Even if you unplug appliances the wiring feeding the sockets is still live. A simple remedy for blocking those fields emanating from wiring inside the home is to use shielded cables or conduits. Better still, or when shielded cable is impracticable, simply switch off the main fuses at night, but you might have to run a spur for appliances, such as refrigerators, that need constant power. Also available are “demand switches” that isolate all or just some circuits once no more electricity is needed.

EMF sources from outside the home, such as those from overhead transmission lines, are another matter and you cannot shield them off since they travel straight through the fabric of the building. In the US there are at least six states that limit the intensity of electric fields around power lines. Beds, particularly those of children, should be located as far away as possible from power lines.

Energy conservation

The extra energy that could be made available from conservation measures is one of our most underused and invisible resources. Yet, it is cheap, safe, and available in abundance everywhere from our over- consuming ways. Most older homes were built with scant regard for the energy they used and although more care is taken now, many newer ones are still ill prepared for an era of scarce energy.

Fortunately, houses are extremely adaptable and making them more conserving is often a series of relatively inexpensive do-it-yourself jobs. You can carry these through as a gradual process, starting with simple and mundane tasks, such as draught proofing and insulation, and then move on to more complex and exciting projects, such as “going solar”.

In terms of priorities, making your home weatherproof is more important as a first step than installing solar panels. Obviously you can do a bit of both at the same time but if you want to see some immediate cost savings in colder climates, then draught proof your doors and windows and insulate the loft and hot-water tank. Double glazing is effective but very expensive to install, and it will be many years before you realize any cost savings from energy conservation over initial costs. You may have other reasons, however, such as noise reduction, that make it a more attractive proposition.

The amount of work you need to carry out on your own particular home will depend on many things: the local climate and shelter; the type of structure it is (detached, terraced, or apartment, for example); its orientation; construction; the type of heating systems and fuel sources available; and, of course; your lifestyle and comfort needs. To assess these factors properly is a complex, technical task and you should seek the advice of a professional, especially before embarking on the more expensive projects. But you can work out your own strategy using standard tables for computing such things as “degree-days”, “fuel heating index”, and “R-” or “U-values” for materials, costs, and pay-back periods. If this is all too daunting, use the general list of priorities instead, which applies to most types of home. This, plus advice fromconservation groups and local authorities, will bring benefits not only to you but also the environment.

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