ADA dishwashers have become more popular because new construction developments in Boston require to have a few units to be ADA compliant. This article is subdivided for builders and architects specifying one as well as the people requiring ADA compliant dishwashers.
First, we will define what ADA is, its requirements, and then look at a few products.
Let’s start with what ADA stands for: Americans with Disability Act.
A standard size dishwasher is 33 to 34 inches tall. An ADA dishwasher is 32 inches tall, allowing all the controls to be accessible with a light one hand touch from a wheelchair.
Dishwashers are available in two standard sizes, 24 inches wide and 18 inches wide with 24 inches being the most popular. This article is for 24-inch only. We have a separate article on 18-inch.
That said, it depends on your price range and features to determine the best dishwasher for your home or project.
Let's look at a few from Frigidaire, GE, Bosch, Miele, and Asko.
Features:
Frigidaire is not spectacular from a quietness perspective at 55 DB. Its racks are shallow and the cycles are basic.
Features:
GE is sleeker than the Frigidaire and offers a stainless tank rather than plastic. It is still not quiet, like the next few European dishwashers listed, and it does not have features like rack adjustability or a cutlery tray.
Features:
Bosch is known for their dishwashers. Not only are they one of the most reliable dishwashers they are also one of the quietest. The third rack offers more usable space and the racking can adjust to 3 different heights.
Features:
Miele is the largest family-owned appliance company in the world. Their products are almost entirely designed and manufactured in one factory in Germany. Due to their strict quality control, Miele is known for manufacturing some of the highest quality products in the industry. Miele has the best drying cycle. It allows air to the outside wall and steam is attracted to the cooler side and dissipated.
Features:
Asko was originally a Swedish company but has recently partnered with Sub-Zero and Wolf. Asko has the best interior with an all stainless-steel interior including stainless spray arms and graphite racks. Typically, Asko will become much cheaper when packaged with Sub-Zero and Wolf in multi-unit buildings.
This really depends. I like the Frigidaire for the price. It isn't particularly quiet or laden with features, but it is cheap and works.
Miele is the best of the bunch with great features, drying, and reliability.
If you are a builder or looking for multiple units, consider Asko because it is inexpensive with the Sub-Zero and Wolf builder package.
Additional Resources
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