The Complete Guide to Smart Meter Magnetic Field Shielding

Understanding Smart Meter Magnetic Field Exposure in Australian Homes

Smart meters have been rolled out across Australia as part of the national energy grid modernisation, with over 3 million installations completed to date. While these devices offer improved energy monitoring, many Australians have raised concerns about EMF exposure, particularly in bedrooms and living spaces where meters are often mounted directly outside walls.

Recent measurements conducted by Aus Security Products demonstrate that smart meter magnetic fields can reach levels exceeding 50 mW/m² inside homes—well above the background magnetic field levels typically found in residential environments. For renters, addressing these concerns presents a unique challenge: how do you protect your family without violating lease agreements or damaging property?

The Rental Property Challenge

Unlike homeowners who can install permanent EMF shielding solutions, renters face significant constraints:

• Lease restrictions on large structural modifications
• Temporary living situations requiring portable solutions
• Limited access to exterior metre locations

The Science Behind Magnetic Field Shielding

Before diving into the installation process, it's important to understand how magnetic field shielding works. Smart meters generate magnetic fields primarily from their internal switching power supplies and current measurement systems. Unlike radiofrequency emissions, these low-frequency magnetic fields (50-60 Hz and harmonics) require specialised magnetic shielding materials for effective attenuation.

Key Magnetic Field Shielding Principles:

1. Magnetic Flux Redirection: High-permeability materials channel magnetic field lines away from living spaces
2. Proper Grounding: Earthing systems safely dissipate induced currents and provide optimal shielding performance
3. Coverage Area: Strategic placement maximises protection efficiency for low-frequency magnetic fields
4. Material Quality: High-permeability steel alloys provide superior magnetic field attenuation
   

Pre-Installation Assessment: Know Your Baseline

Essential Equipment for Measurement

Primary Tool: Professional-grade magnetic field metre (we recommend the Trifield TF2 for accurate low-frequency magnetic field measurements)

What to Measure:

• Baseline readings at various distances from the suspected metre location
• Peak exposure times (smart metres generate constant magnetic fields during normal operation)
• Different room areas to identify the primary exposure zone

Identifying Your Smart Metre Location

Most Australian smart metres are installed on exterior walls near:

• Main electrical panels
• Kitchen or laundry areas
• Garage walls adjacent to living spaces
• Bedroom walls (particularly concerning for sleep quality)

Safety Note: Only measure from inside your rental property. Do not attempt to access or tamper with the actual smart metre, as this may violate utility company regulations and your lease agreement.

The Complete Shielding Solution: Step-by-Step Installation

Materials List: Professional-Grade Components

( Everything we stock will be hyper-linked below ⬇️ )

Primary Shielding:

• Yshield ML-85 Magnetic Shielding Plate: Medical-grade steel alloy providing superior EMF attenuation
• 3M Command Strips (Heavy Duty): Damage-free mounting system rated for plate weight

Grounding System Components:

• Yshield GSX10 Grounding Strap: Conductive tape with specialised adhesive
• Yshield GPI Grounding Plug: Australian-standard earthing connector
• Yshield GL200 Grounding Cable: Low-resistance connection cable
• Yshield GS1 Grounding Plate: Professional grounding interface

Testing Equipment:

• Socket Tester: Verification of proper electrical earthing
• Precision Scissors: Clean cutting of grounding materials

All Yshield products are manufactured to European EMF protection standards and comply with Australian electrical safety requirements.

Phase 1: Wall Mounting (Damage-Free Installation)

Preparation:

1. Clean the wall surface with a damp cloth and allow to dry completely
2. Room temperature should be between 18-24°C for optimum adhesive performance
3. Identify the exact smart metre location using your magnetic field metre readings

Mounting Process:

1. Apply Command Strips: Attach heavy-duty 3M Command strips to all four corners of the ML-85 plate
2. Strategic Positioning: Press the plate firmly against the interior wall, directly opposite the external smart metre location (where you get the highest reading)
3. Pressure Application: Hold for 30 seconds per corner to ensure proper adhesive bonding

Why This Works: The ML-85 plate creates a magnetic barrier that redirects magnetic field lines away from your living space, significantly reducing low-frequency magnetic field penetration.

Phase 2: Grounding System Installation

Proper grounding is essential for EMF shielding effectiveness and electrical safety.

Creating the Connection Point:

1. Initial Strap Application: Cut a 5cm piece of GSX10 grounding strap
2. Primary Connection: Place this piece over the exposed metallic section of the plate, ensuring contact with both plate and wall
3. Extended Run: Apply a longer GSX10 strap piece (typically 1-2 metres) over the initial connection, running vertically down the wall to floor level near your chosen power outlet
4. Adhesion Technique: Use a flat card to smooth the tape, eliminating air bubbles that could compromise conductivity

Phase 3: Electrical Safety Verification

Critical Safety Step: Before connecting any grounding equipment, you must verify that your electrical outlet provides proper earthing.

Testing Procedure:

1. Socket Inspection: Insert the socket tester into your chosen outlet
2. Reading Interpretation: For the Aus Earth tester model, three illuminated lights indicate correct wiring with proper earth connection
3. Fault Conditions: If lights indicate "No Earth" or other wiring faults, consult a qualified electrician before proceeding

Phase 4: Complete Grounding System Assembly

Component Connection:

1. Cable Assembly: Connect the GL200 grounding cable between the GS1 grounding plate and GPI grounding plug
2. Wall Attachment: Securely fasten the GS1 plate to the GSX10 grounding strap at floor level using the provided screws
3. Final Connection: Insert the GPI grounding plug into the verified electrical socket
4. Power Activation: Switch on the power to complete the grounding circuit

System Verification: The complete path should run from the ML-85 plate → GSX10 strap → GS1 plate → GL200 cable → GPI plug → electrical earth.

Measuring Success: Before and After Results

Our test installation demonstrated remarkable effectiveness:

Pre-Installation Measurement: 50+ mW/m² (peak readings near smart meter wall)

Post-Installation Measurement: 0.9 mW/m² (98% reduction in EMF exposure)

Testing Protocol:

• Measurements taken at identical locations and times
• Multiple readings over 24-hour period to account for magnetic field variations
• Verified using calibrated professional magnetic field detection equipment

Long-Term Monitoring

Continue periodic measurements to ensure system effectiveness:

• Weekly checks for the first month
• Monthly monitoring thereafter
• Immediate testing if you notice any system component damage

Aesthetic Integration: Hiding Your Installation

Professional EMF protection doesn't need to compromise your home's appearance.

Concealment Strategies:

• Furniture Placement: Position bookcases, artwork, or entertainment units to naturally conceal the plate
• Decorative Solutions: Use large frames or wall hangings that complement your décor
• Room Layout: Arrange furniture to incorporate the shielded area into your existing design

Important: Ensure any concealment doesn't interfere with the grounding strap connection or compress the shielding plate.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Weak Adhesion: Ensure wall surface is clean and dry; consider slightly warming command strips before application Intermittent Grounding: Check all connection points for corrosion or loosening Inconsistent Readings: Smart metre magnetic fields are generally constant; verify metre positioning if readings vary significantly Aesthetic Concerns: Remember that effective protection prioritises health over perfect appearance

When to Seek Professional Assistance

While this guide enables DIY installation, certain situations require professional consultation:

Complex Electrical Issues: If socket testing reveals wiring problems Multiple Metre Exposure: Properties with extensive smart metre installations Commercial Applications: Business premises requiring comprehensive magnetic field auditing

Conclusion: Practical Magnetic Field Protection

Smart metre magnetic field exposure doesn't have to be an unavoidable consequence of modern living.

Key Takeaways:

• 98% reduction in smart metre magnetic field exposure is achievable with proper installation
• Professional-grade components ensure long-term effectiveness and safety
• Portable solution provides protection that moves with you

Your Next Steps

1. Measure Your Exposure: Use a quality magnetic field metre to establish baseline readings
2. Gather Materials: Source professional-grade Yshield components and mounting supplies
3. Follow Safety Protocols: Test electrical outlets and follow proper grounding procedures
4. Document Results: Take before and after measurements to verify effectiveness
5. Share Your Success: Help other renters by sharing your experience with magnetic field protection

Ready to Get Started?

All the professional magnetic field shielding components referenced in this guide are available through Aus Security Products, along with expert technical support to ensure your installation success. Our Australian-based team understands the unique challenges facing renters and can provide additional guidance for complex situations.

This guide is based on actual installation results and follows established magnetic field shielding principles. Individual results may vary based on smart metre type, wall construction, and environmental factors. Always prioritise electrical safety and consult qualified professionals when in doubt about electrical connections.

Electrical Safety Warning: This guide involves working with electrical grounding systems. All electrical work carries inherent risks.

Professional Consultation Required: We strongly recommend consulting a qualified electrician before beginning this installation.

Limitation of Liability: Aus Security Products accepts no responsibility for electrical accidents, injuries, property damage, or any consequences resulting from following this guide.

Your Responsibility: By proceeding, you acknowledge understanding the electrical safety risks and accept full responsibility for the installation and compliance with local codes and rental agreements.