Lightning protection according to VDE regulations DIN VDE 0100-443

Hello everyone,

we are currently discussing whether to install lightning protection according to VDE regulations DIN VDE 0100-443 (from 01.10.16) in the main distribution box or not (since we received planning approval before 01.10.16 and the shell construction is already standing, we have the choice).

If it makes sense and prevents damage, I am happy to install it and invest the few hundred euros. If it is just nonsense and a requirement without much benefit, I would rather save it.

Are there any opinions on this?

Thanks for that!

Best regards!

Doesn't anyone have an opinion on that?

I believe the question is a bit too specific for this forum to answer competently. Nevertheless, I am happy to share my opinion with you.

I think it depends. Basically, the standard is going in the right direction. In short, it stipulates that a Type 2 surge protection device is now mandatory in single-family houses. Apart from that, the entire surge protection concept up to Type 3 should be coherent and executed properly. Simply installing a Type 2 surge protection device blindly is not effective.

Here you can find more information directly from DEHN: ht tps://w w w.dehn.de/sites/default/files/uploads/dehn/pdf/sonderdruck/sd88_d_ueberspannungsschutz-niederspannungsanlagen.pdf

Also, a small addition. The foundation earth electrode standard DIN 18014:2007-09 came into effect about seven years ago, and yet it is constantly violated in new constructions. The serious disregard is mainly due to the ignorance of architects, shell builders, and even electricians. Meanwhile, the standard has even been replaced by the newer DIN 18014:2014-03. I think that even in ten years, a large portion of houses will be built without compliance with the standard...

Thank you for your opinion.

The foundation earth electrode is installed with us (see picture on the far right).
The question was whether the protection alone really "protects"...

A foundation earth electrode is always installed, but in 95% of new buildings it simply does not meet the standard. As mentioned, this is generally not bad, but I would additionally protect important consumers (e.g. heat pump, heating, etc.) with type 3 (fine protection).