Why Use An EMF Detector for Ghost Hunting?

An electromagnetic field detector, or EMF detector, is an instrument used to detect electromagnetic fields, which are created by high voltages in any given area. So why would we use an EMF detector on a paranormal investigation?

At PERS, we use them for two reasons:

K11 Meter, A Popular EMF Detector

Most importantly, they can be used to detect high EMFs and voltages being emitted from appliances, breakers, power lines, and other electrical wiring. Sometimes people who think that they are experiencing paranormal activity are actually experiencing the side effects of a high EMF. This can cause discomfort, the feeling of being watched, paranoia, and even hallucinations. Before every investigation, we do a sweep of the place and document the exact location and severity of any high EMFs. Finding alternate explanations to what people are experiencing can often give them peace of mind.

The second reason we use EMF detectors is to detect an entity's presence. The various theories are still being tested, but many believe that ghosts either draw energy and emit an EMF as a result or they change the differences in voltage as a side effect of their energy draw. While no one knows the exact answer yet, I do know that EMF spikes often coincide with other evidence of a haunting. Sometimes they will be in response to questions asked, or will happen at the same time we find a cold spot, hear footsteps, etc. While EMF spikes don’t specifically prove a haunting, they can back up other claims, experiences, and evidence.

I would love to see a theory proven regarding entities and EMF detectors, but until that happens, we will continue to use them to back up other evidence and as a way to find alternate explanations to what people are experiencing.