Probleme sind programmiert. Zur Beurteilung der Installationsgeräusche nach der neuen DIN 4109

The new edition of the German Standard DIN 4109 concerning noise abatement in buildings (1) contains requirements to household appliances which, with few exceptions, correspond to those of its 1962 edition. But for noises of water supply and sewage disposal appliances, noise levels of 35 dB are now generally accepted, even in living and bedrooms. Above all, however, the new standard 4109 intends to permit that these, compared to 1962 already raised, noise levels could be exceeded by any arbitrary value, whenever the fittings and appliances of the water installation system are operated duly. By renouncing an upper limit for the noise level, the standard violently contradicts other standards and regulations concerning immission abatement. This special treatment of one noise source devalues also the requirements of this standard to other household appliances, to industrial plants, and to the outer walls and walls between adjacent dwellings.