Washer, Dryer, Fridge, Dishwasher, Stove etc.
Washers and Dryers
Front-loading washers and dryers are preferred by many people, including people who use wheelchairs. Top-loading machines may be preferred by someone who finds it difficult to bend comfortably. Whichever model is selected, front-mounted controls are preferable as they are easier for everyone to see and operate. Stacked washer and dryer units are often used when there are space limitations; however, they may not be a good design option for people who use wheelchairs, as these appliances can be difficult to operate and see into.
Pedestal base units are available for many models of frontloading washers and dryers making them easier to reach into.
Careful consideration should be given to the location of the soap dispenser, as it may be located on the top of the machine, making it inaccessible to people who use wheelchairs. Also check the location of the lint catcher.
Choose washers and dryers that offer multiple modes of information on the status of the laundry cycle, including visual, tactile and audible alerts. Such features will maximize accessibility for people with a variety of different capabilities.
The location of the washer and dryer in the home should be designed to be easily accessible and free of hazards. Wellplanned storage will increase the efficiency as well as the safety of the laundry area.
Manoeuvring space in front of the appliances should be at least 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm (59 in. x 59 in.), in addition to the area where dirty clothes are stored. Storage of soap and other supplies should be located nearby, at a maximum height of 1,200 mm (47 in.). A laundry sink and an area for folding clothes should be located within close proximity to the washer and dryer. If clothes are to be ironed within the laundry area, an easily accessible electrical outlet should be incorporated and a fold-down ironing board should be considered. Also, do not forget to plan a space to store the iron.
Refrigerators and Freezers
Side-by-side refrigerators and freezers are preferred by some people since they are easy to see into and are accessible to people who use wheelchairs. However, they offer limited storage for large amounts of food. Some people may prefer the freezer to be located in the upper compartment of a split level refrigerator, making it is easier to see into, while others may prefer the freezer compartment at the bottom.
Whichever model is selected, pull-out shelves and a self defrost feature increase the ease of reach and cleaning—both important considerations. The kitchen layout and appliance placement should permit easy access to refrigerator drawers and pull-out shelves.
Refrigerators can be purchased with your preferred door swing direction, providing more flexibility to the kitchen designer and homeowner. Also remember that, although ice makers and cold water dispensers are convenient, they may reduce the amount of storage space inside the refrigerator and freezer.
Dishwashers
Kitchen designers usually locate the dishwasher close to the sink.
As a result, manoeuvring space around an open dishwasher is an important design consideration, especially for people who use mobility devices such as walkers or wheelchairs. If you are a wheelchair user, try to provide knee space under one of the cabinets immediately adjacent to the dishwasher—this will allow you to get closer to the dishwasher for loading and unloading.
Single-drawer dishwashers can be purchased with finishes that match the design of the kitchen cabinets. Having small two drawer dishwashers can eliminate the need to store dishes elsewhere and, while more expensive, may suit the needs of some people.
Dishwasher controls are sometimes found on the top of the door. Such a configuration usually results in limited legibility, which may not suit some people, especially those with visual impairments.
Additionally, they should incorporate good colour contrast, be intuitive and easy to use, as well as simple to program. Ease of loading and unloading the dishwasher will depend on the configuration of the racks and pull-out baskets. Look for a dishwasher with a “quiet feature;” this is appreciated by everyone, but it is especially important in households that include someone who has a hearing impairment. Background noise from an appliance such as a dishwasher can reduce their ability to hear and communicate effectively.
Ovens and Cook Tops
Wall ovens offer flexibility, as they can be installed at any height to suit the needs of the household. Wall ovens that open sideways are preferred by many people who find them easier for removing food. A pull-out shelf under the oven and a counter on the open side of the oven are practical design features that enhance safety.
Lock-out or override switch features are excellent options for preventing unintentional use of the appliance. Some cook top manufacturers offer control panels that can be detached, shutting off access and the potential danger of inadvertent use by others.
There are also cooking appliances that feature a control panel that is separate from the oven or cook top unit, thereby allowing custom placement of controls to meet the needs of the user.
Manoeuvring space in front of an open oven must be considered when designing a kitchen space. A clear floor space of at least 1,500 mm x 1,500 mm (59 in. x 59 in.) is recommended. People who use scooters or larger wheelchairs may require turning space of 2,100 mm x 2,100 mm (83 in. x 83 in.).
A counter-mounted cook top with clear knee space underneath is an excellent approach when designing for someone who uses a wheelchair. The knee space should be at least 750 mm (30 in.) wide, 680 mm (27 in.) high x 480 mm (19 in.) deep. Additional toe-space at least 300 mm (12 in.) high should be provided beyond the knee space.
Microwaves
Microwaves are useful for everyone, but particularly for some people with activity limitations because they are easy to operate and can quickly defrost and heat up preprepared meals. Microwaves should be located at an appropriate height for easy access to the controls and interior space, with a clear counter space beside, so that food can be removed from the microwave and slid along the counter, eliminating the need to carry hot food items.
As with all operational controls, microwave controls should have good colour contrast, and be simple and easy to operate.
Emergency Situations
Access by all members of the household to the water shutoff valves for washers and dishwashers, as well as emergency controls for other appliances, should be planned during the design and installation process.
Contact your REALTOR at Coldwell Banker Vantage Realty for more tips and advice on your home renovations.
Follow