The Association of German Engineers (VDI) and the Federal Industrial Association for Technical Building Equipment (BTGA) have adopted a new joint rulebook with the guideline VDI/BTGA 6044. The new guideline replaces the previous BTGA Rule 3.003 and marks closer institutional cooperation between both associations in standards work for building technology.
The replacement of BTGA Rule 3.003 by VDI/BTGA 6044 primarily affects planning offices and executing companies in the SHK trades. The joint sponsorship of VDI and BTGA is intended to provide broader coordination of technical standards in the future. Previously, BTGA rules were considered industry standards for technical building equipment, while VDI guidelines were often required as planning bases in tender documents. The new dual designation VDI/BTGA combines both perspectives.
For practice, the VDI/BTGA 6044 guideline initially means an adjustment in project documentation and tender specifications. Planning offices will henceforth need to reference the new guideline number. What specific technical innovations or tightening measures the VDI/BTGA 6044 contains compared to the old BTGA Rule 3.003 has not yet been publicly communicated. However, more precise specifications for heating load calculations, pipe network dimensioning, or drinking water hygiene are typical.
A possible effect of the new guideline concerns the Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG). The BEG often requires compliance with recognized rules of technology when submitting applications. If VDI/BTGA 6044 is classified as such in the future, funding providers could establish it as a minimum requirement for funded projects. This would be particularly relevant for heat pump installations or heat recovery in ventilation systems, where technical evidence for system design is required.
The strengthened cooperation between VDI and BTGA is also evident in other areas: In 2023, the VDI updated the guideline VDI 2078 and VDI 6007 for cooling load calculations. Here too, closer coordination with industry associations such as BTGA had been sought. According to the associations, the consolidation of standardization activities is intended to increase the acceptance and implementation of technical rules in practice.
For manufacturers of system technology such as Viessmann, Vaillant, or Bosch Thermotechnik, the new guideline may require adjustments to product documentation and planning documents. If new requirements for system components such as heat exchangers or volume flow controllers are defined in VDI/BTGA 6044, manufacturers must incorporate this into their technical data sheets.
The guideline VDI/BTGA 6044 is effective immediately. Details on technical design and possible transition periods can be obtained from the VDI or BTGA. Industry circles expect that further joint guidelines from both associations will follow, such as on topics like Smart Building or Digitalization in TGA planning.
