BS EN 13141-4:2021

What is BS EN 13141‑4 about?

BS EN 13141‑4 is the fourth part of the BS EN 13141 multi-series. BS EN 13141‑4 discusses residential ventilation systems that are unidirectional. BS EN 13141‑4 specifies aerodynamic, acoustic, and electrical power performance test methods for unidirectional ventilation units used in residential ventilation systems.

BS EN 13141‑4 is applicable to ventilation units:

• Installed on a wall or in a window without any duct, A category
• Installed in the upstream of a duct, B category
• Installed in the downstream of a duct, C category
• Installed in a duct, or with duct connection upstream and downstream, D category
• With one or several inlets/outlets
• Installed in a system with a heat pump for domestic hot water or water for cooling or heating
• Which can be used for supply or exhaust

Note: BS EN 13141‑4 fan assisted cowls which are tested according to BS EN 13141-5 mechanical supply and exhaust units which are tested according to EN 13141-7:2021 or BS EN 13141-8:2021

Who is BS EN 13141‑4 for?

BS EN 13141‑4 on ventilation systems for buildings (performance testing) is useful for:

• Manufacturers of ventilation systems and components
• Product design engineers
• Civil Engineers
• Architects
• Builders

Why should you use BS EN 13141‑4?

Ventilation in buildings is necessary to balance temperature, moisture, odour, and air quality. Issues with ventilation systems can compromise the physical and mental health of building occupants. Disturbances in aerodynamics, electrical power and acoustic performance can decrease the overall efficiency of ventilation systems.

 BS EN 13141‑4 provides you with tests to establish the performance characteristics ventilation system components. These tests will help you to identify and recommend appropriate ventilation systems depending on the design and size of the building.

What’s changed since the last update?

BS EN 13141‑4:2021 supersedes BS EN 13141‑4:2011, which is withdrawn. BS EN 13141‑4:2021 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 13141‑4:2011. These include:

• The scope has been changed, and concerns now all unidirectional ventilation units (ducted or non-ducted units, supply, or exhaust units), excluding cowls with fans
• Performance testing of aerodynamic characteristics clause includes new testing of external leakages
• Determination of the maximum and reference airflow has been added
• Tests of airflow sensitivity and indoor/outdoor airtightness have been added
• Testing of noise radiated by the casing for ducted units has been added