Ventilation standard DIN1946-6

The supply of fresh air in living spaces and buildings is becoming increasingly important, especially due to modern, energy-efficient construction methods. After a long period of the revision phase, an amended version of the ventilation standard DIN 1946-6 was published in May 2009. year. The objectives of ventilation standards are focused on the following key points:

    • Definition of constraints and calculation of methods for the required minimum air exchange requirements.
    • Definition of an assessment method (ventilation concept) to determine if ventilation measures are needed for the building.
    • The concept of ventilation should be used to determine how to implement the ventilation measure: manually by the user or with the help of a ventilation system.

When is it necessary to use a ventilation system according to DIN 1946-6?

The energy saving guidelines in § 6 prescribe the application of the ventilation concept according to DIN 1946-6 for all new buildings. In the case of a renovation project, the ventilation concept must be developed if more than one third of all windows in detached single-family houses and apartment buildings have been replaced, or new insulation has been installed on more than one third of the roof.

Basic element DIN 1946-6: Difference of 4 degrees of ventilation

1. Ventilation for protection against moisture

This level of ventilation should ensure adequate ventilation of the building depending on the appropriate level of heat protection. The goal is to avoid damage caused by moisture, even in the temporary absence of residents and reduced moisture load. This ventilation must be provided at all times, regardless of the user.

2. Reduced ventilation

This level is largely user independent. Here it should be ensured that the short-term absence of residents (work, etc.) meets minimum hygiene standards and protection of buildings.

3. Nominal ventilation

In normal use of the apartment, nominal ventilation describes the required air conduction to comply with hygiene and health standards, as well as to protect the building. Nominal ventilation can partially engage the occupant through air ventilation.

4. Intensive ventilation

Intensive ventilation is intended to reduce the peak values of the load by cooking, washing and the like. Here, too, the user can be switched on with active ventilation.

The insulation standard and the position of the building are included in the calculation bases of ventilation levels according to DIN 1946-6. This will detect leaks in the building, take into account expected loads based on living space, and assess natural air infiltration due to wind loads.

If, according to the created ventilation concept, the natural air supply is not sufficient to guarantee ventilation to protect moisture, the responsible planner must provide additional ventilation measures (LtM).

In addition, the new DIN 1946-6 provides legal certainty for key planners. However, some points are not considered here. Thus, it cannot be clearly determined to what extent active air ventilation can be expected from a permanently employed resident. Consideration of different general weather conditions, such as mild winter or transitional seasons, is problematic because in some weather conditions or in severe temperature oscillations, daily multiple air exchanges may be necessary.

Who can prepare the ventilation concept according to DIN 1946-6?

Any expert who plans and implements ventilation measures, services ventilation systems or is involved in the planning and modernization of buildings, can create a ventilation concept. Tools for planning the ventilation concept according to DIN 1946-6 are also available on the Internet (e.g. www.wohnungslueftung-ev.de).

The concept of ventilation is the responsibility of the owner who must always ensure this work.

Tips and more information on active house ventilation can be found on ours ,info-page Ventilation windows.