Understanding ADA Compliance for Range Hoods
A truly exceptional kitchen should be accessible to everyone. For us, that means designing our range hoods with thoughtful consideration for accessibility, in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA compliance ensures that every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, can comfortably and effectively use their range hood.
What is ADA Compliance?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It covers various aspects of public and private life, including access to appliances. For range hoods, ADA compliance means ensuring that the appliance is fully accessible to those with disabilities and differences.
How Can Range Hoods Meet ADA Standards?
In residential construction, builders need to ensure that all components, including range hoods, adhere to ADA guidelines for accessibility. This looks like ensuring that controls are easily reachable and operable.
Specifically, ADA standards require that range hood controls be within reach and operable with one hand without the need for tight grasping, pinching, or twisting. Furthermore, controls should be no higher than 48 inches from the floor when the high forward reach is unobstructed.
ADA Compliant Solutions for Range Hoods
To meet ADA compliance, the design and installation of range hoods may include a few specialized solutions:
Mechanical Controls
Independent Wall Mount Control (1 switch for light & fan): With this setup, you can use a remote master AC power switch to control both the fan and lights of the hood simultaneously. This option provides a straightforward solution but may limit flexibility in controlling individual functions separately.
Independent Wall Control Switch (2 switches - 1 for light & 1 for fan): This solution offers greater control by allowing separate operation of the fan and light. Users can turn on the fan and light independently and at different times. Ensure that any modifications to the range hood’s wiring are compliant with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and UL standards, as improper changes could void warranties.
Electronic Controls
Remote Controls: For range hoods with electronic controls, options include wall-mounted or handheld remotes that meet ADA’s grasp and force requirements. A handheld remote provides flexibility, allowing users to operate the range hood’s fan and light functions from anywhere in the kitchen. This enhances convenience and accessibility, making it easier to manage kitchen ventilation.
The Pro500 -- Hauslane's latest ADA compliant range hood
The PRO500 is the first range hood on the market to achieve ADA compliance, blending our exclusive HauSMART™ Technology with exceptional ventilation power for a safer, cleaner, and more accessible cooking experience. With HauSMART™ Technology, you can control the range hood using hand gestures, voice commands (compatible with Alexa & Google Home), and a dedicated phone app. This makes the PRO500 not only a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance but also an essential tool for those in need of accessible technology
Other features to highlight include:
- Distinctive geometric design ensures a sophisticated appearance from every angle
- Ergonomic shape and tilted control panel facilitates natural movements for comfortable user interaction.
- Robust air extraction capability driven by AC motor, perfectly suited for demanding culinary tasks like boiling, steaming, poaching, braising, frying, searing, and sautéing
- Four-speed functionality: Offering three-speed exhaust fan settings along with a MAX mode for amplified performance
- Equipped with an energy-efficient LED light strip for bright lighting and consistent visibility while cooking
- Engineered with a mechanically advanced duct system for reduced noise levels, providing a serene cooking atmosphere
At Hauslane, our commitment to accessibility means that we offer a range of ADA-compliant solutions tailored to your needs. Ensuring that every homeowner can enjoy a healthy and functional kitchen environment is at the heart of what we do. Whether you choose a mechanical or electronic control solution, rest assured that our range hoods are designed with you in mind.
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