Retrofitting earthing systems in existing buildings poses challenges for owners and specialised companies. A functioning earthing system is essential, especially when it comes to renovations, energy modernisations or the installation of photovoltaic systems, wall boxes and heat pumps. However, many existing buildings lack proof of standard-compliant earthing or use outdated systems such as water pipe net-works. In addition, limited space, sealed surfaces and difficulty accessing the soil often make conventional retrofitting a complex and costly undertaking. With the new D18014 earth rod set, DEHN provides a practical solution specially developed for the requirements of renovating existing buildings.
Retrofitting earthing systems: a breeze with the DEHN earth rod set
To comply with standards, the electrical installation must be equipped with a functional earthing system that safely conducts fault currents to earth, thereby ensuring its safety and functionality. It protects people from hazards, such as lightning exposure, and prevents fires. In Germany, an earthing system is a standard requirement for electrical installations, espe-cially in new buildings. But owners of existing buildings often deliberate on whether retrofit-ting is mandatory when they embark on a renovation or modernisation project.
Although there is no general obligation to renew the entire electrical installation in older buildings, newly installed or modified system components, such as technical extensions re-lating to renewable energies, must comply with the applicable safety and technical stand-ards. The relevant standards for the installation of an earthing system are DIN VDE AR-N 4100 and DIN 18014.
The D18014 earth rod set from DEHN contains all the necessary components for the profes-sional installation of earth rods and is particularly suitable for new buildings and existing buildings with limited soil or minimal excavation possibilities. Whatever the season, the earth rod solution ensures and maintains stable earth resistance regardless of weather con-ditions or soil moisture. The set meets all relevant standards by complying with the re-quirements of DIN 18014 and the applicable VDE specifications. Its versatility makes it suit-able for a variety of applications, including partial renovations, selective upgrades, installa-tion inside the building or a complete renewal of the earthing system.
The set consists of five earth rods, each 1 metre long, to be inserted into the ground. A driv-ing spike makes it easier to drive in the rods. The earth rods are connected to the connecting cable (round wire 8-10 mm or cable 16-50 mm2) without a cable lug using a connection clamp. This establishes a secure connection between the earthing system and the main earthing busbar (MEB) of the electrical installation. For buildings with a foundation area of up to 200 m², two sets are required to meet the normative requirements. Installation in-volves minimal disruption of existing outdoor facilities. Only two small excavation sites and wall bushings are necessary.
Technical details can be found here.
Simon Thaler ⎟ Head of Corporate Communications
Daily and Business Press