If you are disabled or a contractor remodeling a kitchen for someone who is, you might be wondering if there are any accessibility-compliant (ADA-compliant) appliances out there, specifically ranges and range hoods.
In this article, we will cover what the ADA is, what it’s for, and ultimately, find out if range hoods are ADA-compliant or not.
Range hoods do not have to be ADA-compliant. However, there are ADA guidelines for range hood installation. And there are a plethora of manufacturers that sell ADA-compliant hoods for disabled people.
What is the ADA?
The ADA is the Americans with Disabilities Act. It was adopted in 1990 to allow everyone equal opportunities for access to public areas, schools, machinery, and more.
COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood
COSMO COS-63190S Wall Mount Range Hood
What does it mean to be ADA-compliant?
ADA compliance means that the appliances comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines. These criteria have been established for those who cannot use equipment as it is usually installed. For example, ADA-compliant appliances may have remote controls to facilitate the operation of the device.
Compliance with the ADA is not limited to appliances. Each area of your home can also be created with ADA, such as your bedroom and bathroom. You may also see Americans’ disability act compliance around town or in schools, where children and staff may require lifts and ramps rather than steps. Click here to view the official ADA codes.
Below are other common ADA-compliant products that help people with disabilities navigate the world a little easier.
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Do range hoods have to be ADA-compliant?
No. Range hoods do not have to be ADA-compliant. However, there are a plethora of manufacturers that sell ADA-compliant hoods for disabled individuals. And there are ADA guidelines for range hood installation.
ADA-compliant hoods often have controls separate from the hood. ADA-compatible hood controls are either wall or remote switches. This clause is meant to make it easier for disabled people to safely operate their range of hoods.
According to Sections 308 and 309, range hood switches (or “operable parts”) must be situated 15 to 48 inches above the floor. If there is an obstacle (such as a cabinet or stove), the required height fluctuates depending on the depth of the obstruction. If the depth is less than 20 inches, the controls must still be 48 inches or lower. The controls must be no more than 44 inches off the floor if the depth exceeds 20 inches.
Controls cannot require that tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist or more than 5 pounds of force (lbs)” is required to operate the hood.
If you are looking for a compliant hood, read all the marketing material. If it doesn’t state ADA anywhere, odds are, it’s not compliant.
Does a range or stove need to be ADA-compliant?
Ranges and stoves are not required to be ADA-compliant. But there are installation guidelines. For example, the controls of an ADA-compliant range must be between 15 inches and 48 inches above the ground. This makes it easy for individuals with disabilities to access the controls. In addition, anyone should be able to use the controls without crossing to reach the burners.
There must also be enough room for a person’s legs underneath the range. The space underneath the cooktop should be isolated or designed to prevent burns, shocks, or other injuries.
How to tell if a range hood is ADA compliant
If you are looking for a range hood, read all the marketing material. If it doesn’t state ADA anywhere, odds are, it’s not compliant.
If you want to see how important a compliant kitchen is to an actual disabled person, check out this video from Chelsie Hill as she takes you on a tour of her ADA-compliant kitchen.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding ADA compliance.
What is ADA compliant?
ADA compliance means an appliance manufacturer has designed and tested their product to adhere to the Americans with disabilities act.
What are ADA-compliant appliances?
ADA-compliant appliances must allow for the appliance to be used with limited force and for someone in a. wheelchair to use the appliance with ease. Many more criteria must be followed for a product to be ADA-compliant.
Who is protected by the ADA?
The ADA safeguards qualified people with disabilities. A disabled person has a physical or mental impairment that significantly limits major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is thought to have such an impairment.
Conclusion
If you are remodeling a home and are not disabled, you can rest assured that range hoods and ranges do not need to be ADA-compliant, but if you are looking for one, they are out there.
In this post, we covered the Americans with Disabilities Act, what compliance means, and how you can find out if a range hood is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Here are some key takeaways:
Key takeaways
- The ADA stands for the American Disabilities Act.
- Range hoods are not required to be ADA-compliant.
- Many range hood manufacturers make disability-compliant range hoods.
- Read the marketing copy to find out if a range hood is compliant.
So, do you own an ADA-compliant vent hood? And did we cover everything you wanted to know? Let us know in the comments section below (I read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out my full blog for more tips and tricks for your kitchen. Thanks for reading, and stay safe.
