ADA-Compliant Appliances: A Guide for Hotels, Apartments and Senior Living
Accessible guest rooms, apartments and senior living units need kitchens and kitchenettes that everyone can use. Choosing ADA-compliant appliances is a big part of that. Here's what the label means and what to look for.
What makes an appliance "ADA compliant"?
The ADA Standards don't certify products. Instead, they set requirements for how a space and its features can be reached and operated. Manufacturers label appliances "ADA compliant" when the product's design makes it possible to meet those requirements when installed correctly. The key areas are:
Reach range
Controls and operable parts should be within reach of a person using a wheelchair. For an unobstructed forward or side reach, that's generally between 15 and 48 inches above the floor. This is why ADA models are often shorter, or have controls on the front instead of the back.
Easy-to-use controls
Operable parts must work with one hand, without tight grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist, and with no more than 5 pounds of force. Look for front-mounted push buttons, touch controls and easy-open door handles.
Clear floor space
Each appliance needs a clear floor space of at least 30 × 48 inches in front of or beside it, so a wheelchair user can approach it. This affects your layout as much as the appliance itself.
What to look for by appliance
| Appliance | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Refrigerators & freezers | Undercounter or shorter models; for combination fridge-freezers, at least half of the freezer space no higher than 54" from the floor. Easy-to-reach shelves and controls. |
| Dishwashers | Models sized to fit under a 34" counter, front controls, and clear floor space next to the door, not blocked by it. |
| Cooktops & ranges | Front or side controls so users don't reach across hot burners. Some layouts need knee space below the cooktop. |
| Ovens & microwaves | Side-opening or easy-reach doors, controls within reach range, and mounting height that keeps the interior accessible. |
| Laundry | Front-loading washers and dryers with doors and controls within reach range. |
Tips for property managers
- Check the installed height. A compliant appliance can still fail if it's installed too high or placed where clear floor space is blocked.
- Measure the cut-out. ADA undercounter models are often shorter than standard (for example, to fit under a 34" counter), so confirm width, height and depth.
- Standardize across units. Using the same models in all accessible rooms simplifies maintenance and replacement.
- Think beyond the minimum. Features like digital controls, auto defrost and door alarms make units easier for every resident or guest.
Shop ADA-compliant appliances
We carry a wide range of Summit ADA-compliant models, including ADA refrigerators, ADA freezers and undercounter refrigerators. Use the filters to narrow by width, capacity, door style and installation type, or browse all appliances.
Outfitting accessible units?
Send us your room count, cut-out sizes and delivery ZIP code. We'll recommend matching ADA-compliant models and quote your project.
Request a Quote →Call (800) 574-4561
