Infrared Sauna EMF Claims: Marketing vs Reality

Among infrared sauna users the conversation around electromagnetic fields (EMF) is a hot topic. Please check out our article on 'Should I Worry About EMF In Sauna' as well.

Health-conscious consumers become more aware of EMF exposure. Manufacturers of different types of infrared saunas, sauna blankets, and PEMF mats in response, often use various marketing terms to describe the EMF levels of their saunas. 

These terms, ranging from "Low EMF" to "EMF-Free", are intended to assure potential buyers of the safety and healthfulness of their products. But since there are no standardized industry certifications, it’s hard to tell what they mean. Below, we decode such marketing labels to help you navigate the world of infrared saunas with greater clarity and to steer clear of misty terminology.

EMF Marketing Terms Used by Infrared Sauna Manufacturers

This section provides a full overview of the different EMF terms used in infrared sauna marketing, to help you better  understand and interpret such claims.

Low EMF: Suggests that the sauna emits lower levels of EMF compared to standard models. However, the exact definition of "low" varies.

Ultra Low EMF: Indicates even lower EMF emissions than "Low EMF" saunas, implying minimal EMF exposure, but specifics differ between brands.

Near Zero EMF: Used for saunas that claim to have EMF levels close to natural background levels, suggesting extremely low, almost negligible EM emissions.

EMF-Free or No EMF: Some manufacturers might claim their saunas are completely free of EMF. This is a strong claim and should be approached with skepticism unless backed by credible, independent testing.

Certified Low EMF: Implies that the sauna has been tested and certified by an independent body to have low EMF levels, giving them more credibility than unverified claims.

Reduced EMF Emissions: Indicates that the sauna has been designed to emit less EMF than typical models, but not necessarily as low as those labeled "Low EMF" or "Ultra Low EMF".

Safe EMF Levels: Seems to propose that the sauna's EMF emissions are within a range considered safe by certain standards or guidelines. The specifics of these standards, however, should be examined.

Practical Steps to Verify EMF Claims in Infrared Saunas

Following the exploration of EMF-related marketing terms, here’s how to verify these claims.

1. Request Detailed Information

When you consider buying an infrared sauna, make sure you get informed about its electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions. EMF can be measured in different units, each reflecting a distinct aspect of electromagnetic exposure:

• Milligauss (mG) or Microtesla (µT): Measures the strength of magnetic fields, which are generated by the electrical components in the sauna. It's generally advised to  look for saunas with magnetic field levels lower than 1 mG;  a safe exposure limit in living spaces.
• Volts per Meter (V/m): This unit measures electric fields, produced by the voltage in electrical systems. In living spaces, electric field levels above 10 V/m are typically viewed as high. When you contact sauna manufacturers, ask for detailed EMF measurements at various points inside the sauna, in both milligauss/microtesla and volts per meter. 

2. Look for Independent Testing

The most reliable way to verify a manufacturer's EMF claims is through independent testing. Check if the sauna has been tested by a credible third-party organization and request access to these test results.

3. Understand the Testing Methodology

Pay attention to how the EMF testing was done. Factors like the distance at which measurements were taken and the sauna's operating conditions during testing can affect the results.

4. Certifications and Standards

Check if the sauna or its components have any certifications from recognized safety and health organizations. Certifications may indicate the manufacturer’s compliance with certain EMF standards.

5. Compare with Industry Benchmarks

Familiarize yourself with typical EMF levels in household environments and compare them with the sauna’s EMF readings. This can give you a better perspective on the sauna's EMF emissions in a real-world context.

6. Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials

While not a scientific method, customer reviews can sometimes offer insights into any EMF-related concerns or experiences with the sauna.

7. Ask the Community

Joining forums or groups for sauna enthusiasts can provide valuable peer insights. Members often share their experiences and knowledge about different saunas, sauna blanket brands and PEMF mats, including EMF levels.

8. Consider a Professional Assessment

If you're particularly sensitive to EMF or just want an extra level of assurance, consider hiring a professional to test the EMF levels of the sauna after installation.

By taking these steps, you will look behind the curtain of marketing jargon and make knowledgeable decisions about the safety and suitability of an infrared sauna for your needs. 

Besides EMF as an important factor, please also consider the overall quality, health benefits, and construction safety features of the sauna.

For a deeper understanding of EMF measurements and their implications, you can refer to sources such as the Bioinitiative Report [1] and the guidelines provided by ICNIRP [2].

Sam Everhart

References

1. Sage C and Carpenter DO (eds.), BioInitiative Report 2012: A Rationale for Biologically-based Exposure Standards for Low-Intensity Electromagnetic Radiation, EMF Portal, https://www.emf-portal.org/en/article/21837

2. International Commission On Non-Ionizing Radiation Protextion, EMF Guidelines, https://www.icnirp.org/

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