The easiest method for most individuals to measure dirty electricity on building wiring is to use a plug-in EMI (electromagnetic interference) meter, also called a line noise meter or microsurge meter. These devices are simple to operate. Plug the meter into electrical outlets to measure the level of dirty electricity present on nearby wiring.

Plug-in EMI meters measure high-frequency electrical noise riding on the voltage waveform of standard 50/60 Hz electricity. Frequency coverage varies by manufacturer. Although not as broad as that of an oscilloscope, these meters typically monitor a key frequency band commonly associated with dirty electricity.

When selecting a plug-in EMI meter, it is generally recommended to choose a model capable of detecting frequencies from approximately 5 kilohertz (or lower) up to around 1 megahertz. This range helps capture most common dirty electricity signals.

Different plug-in EMI meters use different measurement units, such as millivolts or GS units. Manufacturers typically provide guidance on target levels, allowing users to compare their readings and assess whether dirty electricity levels appear elevated.

The Greenwave Broadband EMI Meter is one example of a plug-in dirty electricity meter. Plug-in meters like this can be used for multiple purposes, including:

• Measuring dirty electricity on electrical wiring in homes or other buildings
• Estimating levels of dirty electricity entering a building from external sources such as utility lines
• Identifying internal sources of dirty electricity
• Evaluating the effectiveness of dirty electricity filters and mitigation strategies
• Guiding the installation of dirty electricity filters for improved results