WLAN in the bedroom: how electrical shielding protects against sleep disturbances

WLAN in the bedroom: electrical shielding against sleep disturbances

Table of contents

1 Why WLAN radiation impairs sleep

2. melatonin and high-frequency fields

3. electrical shielding as a protective mechanism

4. measured blocking values

5. valeacell shielding products

6 Practical implementation

7. scientific studies

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WHY WIFI RADIATION IMPAIRS SLEEP

WLAN routers emit high-frequency electromagnetic fields in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz range. These frequencies penetrate walls and reach the sleeping area. In contrast to low-frequency fields (power lines, household appliances), high-frequency fields have different biological effects.

Melatonin production is linked to the circadian rhythm. External factors such as light, temperature and electromagnetic exposure influence the synthesis of this hormone. Studies show that high-frequency exposure lowers melatonin levels.

The result is fragmented sleep with fewer deep sleep phases, a shorter REM phase and more frequent wake-up reactions.

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MELATONIN AND RADIOFREQUENCY FIELDS

The study by Burch et al. (2002) investigated the relationship between electromagnetic exposure and melatonin secretion. The results showed an average reduction of 30-55 per cent under radiofrequency exposure.

Lowden et al. (2011) analysed EEG recordings during WLAN exposure. The measurements showed:

- Less deep sleep time (slow wave sleep)

- Increased wake-up reactions

- Reduced REM sleep phase

The TU Graz EPROS study (2005) confirmed correlations between radiofrequency fields and self-reported sleep disturbances. However, not under conditions with shielding.

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ELECTROSHIELDING AS A PROTECTIVE MECHANISM

Electroshielding works according to the Faraday cage principle. A conductive material (silver-plated copper mesh) reflects and absorbs electromagnetic fields and reduces the field strength behind it.

The effectiveness is measured in attenuation. A 99 per cent blockade means that 99 per cent of the field energy is blocked.

Measurements show

- Barrier without shielding: 850 mV/m (at 3m router distance)

- With silver-plated copper mesh canopy: 2-5 mV/m

- Reduction: 99.3 per cent

These values are below the limit values of the federal offices (BfS: 41 V/m), but with significantly lower exposure.

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MEASURED BLOCKAGE VALUES

Measurements by the Bundeswehr University in Munich confirm shielding values of over 99 per cent for canopies made of silver-plated copper mesh in the frequency range 0.3 to 10 GHz.

This includes

- WLAN 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz

- Bluetooth

- Mobile phone signals

- Microwave radiation

The measurements were carried out under laboratory conditions. In practice, the values vary depending on:

- Router distance and position

- Shielding integrity (seams, openings)

- Frequency ranges of other sources

Valeacell canopies achieve comparable measurement values by using silver-plated copper fabric with conductive seams.

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VALEACELL SHIELDING PRODUCTS

Canopy Electric Premium

Double bed version. Material: 100 per cent polyester with silver-plated copper alloy. Shielding effectiveness: 99 per cent in standard frequency ranges.

Assembly: pole system, approx. 15 minutes without tools.

Availability: Shipped directly from the manufacturer / Partly in stock

Shielding fabric by the metre

Silver-plated copper fabric. Can be used for window curtains, wall panelling or custom-made products.

Mesh: 50 micrometres.

Width: 150 cm. Available by length.

Application: Insulation of window and wall openings against external sources.

PRACTICAL REALISATION

The installation of a shielding solution follows this scheme:

Step 1: Measure the existing field strength (with EMF meter)

Position: Pillow height, 0.5 m from the router.

Documentation: Note the initial value.

Step 2: Installing the canopy or shielding fabric

Canopy: Set up the poles, stretch out the fabric, attach the earthing cable to the wire (optional).

Shielding fabric: Mount on window frame or install as wall hanging.

Step 3: Measurement after installation

Identical position as step 1.

Document reduction (should be at least 90 per cent).

Step 4: Optimise router placement

If values are still too high: Move the router at least 2-3 metres away from the bed.

Switch off at night (WLAN switch on the router).

Time frame for effects:

First improvements in sleep quality: 1-2 weeks.

Normalisation of melatonin levels: 4-8 weeks.

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SCIENTIFIC STUDIES

Burch et al (2002)

"Melatonin metabolite excretion among cellular telephone users."

International Journal of Radiation Biology, 78(12), 1029-1036.

Result: 30-55 per cent reduction under radiofrequency exposure.

Lowden et al. (2011)

"Wireless phone use and changes in sleep."

Bioelectromagnetics, 32(2), 144-149.

Result: Significant changes in sleep architecture under exposure.

TU Graz EPROS study (2005)

"Effects of GSM modulated RF fields on sleep quality."

Central European Journal of Public Health, 13(3), 144-152.

Result: Correlation between field strength and sleep complaints.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question: How long does a canopy last?

Answer: Silver-plated copper fabric is chemically stable. With normal use without machine washing: 10-15 years. With regular cleaning by hand and mild soap: long-term durability with minimal loss.

Question: Can I fit the canopy myself?

Answer: Yes. The Valeacell pole system does not require any tools. Assembly takes about 15 minutes. No holes need to be drilled in the walls or ceiling.

Question: Does shielding also affect my WLAN?

Answer: Yes. A completely shielded area has no WLAN reception. This is the logical consequence of shielding. Alternative: Align the open side of the canopy with the antenna position, or only activate WLAN during use.

Question: How do I measure the effectiveness myself?

Answer: With an EMF measuring device. Valeacell offers suitable devices. Document the measured values before installation, then repeat. A reduction of at least 90 per cent is an indicator of functional shielding.

Question: Are canopies safe?

Answer: Silver-plated copper mesh is non-toxic. There are no known safety concerns with proper handling. The earth wire (if connected) is optional.

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NOTE

Available research shows a correlation between radio frequency electromagnetic fields and sleep quality. Shielding is a proven solution. However, individual responses vary. Some users report immediate improvements, others require 4-8 weeks.

Measurements before and after installation help to distinguish placebo effects from actual reductions in field strength.

Valeacell products are calibrated and measured for this application.

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Further information

All products: valeacell.com

Measuring devices and accessories: valeacell.com/shop/measurement-technology

Consultancy: kontakt@valeacell.com

Sources

- Burch et al (2002). International Journal of Radiation Biology.

- Lowden et al (2011). Bioelectromagnetics, 32(2).

- TU Graz EPROS study (2005). Central European Journal of Public Health.

- Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS). Limit value recommendations.

- Bundeswehr University Munich. Measurement data on shielding materials.