Can Plug Sockets for Dishwasher and Washing Machine be Placed in Under-sink Cupboard?

[Midwest]

Isn't a switch inside a low cupboard at 450mm high easier to reach than an isolator above the work top? With its 600mm depth to reach over?

I expect the later easier if your in a wheelchair or elderly & infirmed.

 

[Pat H]

If the kitchen is specifically for disabled access there are detailed guidelines on access and positioning.

 

[Midwest]

If the kitchen is specifically for disabled access there are detailed guidelines on access and positioning.

Ok then; I expect the later easier if your in a wheelchair or elderly & infirmed

 

[richy3333]

In a new build or major refurbishment, perhaps yes to comply with Part M Building Regs 'to assist people who have reduce reach'. But it only specifies min & max height of switches etc. Designers of new builds often use the central set of DP switches. What do the Building regs in Scotland state?

As regards socket outlets in cupboards, how else do you supply an appliances?

Scottish Regs stipulate isolation switch above counter top for under counter appaliances. I always put Socket outlets behind the appliance fixed to the structure of the building. Regs are to be followed whether a new build or old.

 

[Dave OCD]

Scottish Regs stipulate isolation switch above counter top for under counter appaliances. I always put Socket outlets behind the appliance fixed to the structure of the building. Regs are to be followed whether a new build or old.

Probably based on the assumption that the actual socket will be inaccessible which it certainly will be behind a snug fitting and heavy washing machine for example ! And if the fuse in the plug top should fail then anyone elderly or infirm will never get to it without assistance ! Yes regs should be followed but a modicum of common sense doesn't do any harm either.

 

[DPG]

Got to agree with DaveOCD - what's the point in a plug/socket behind a washing machine. Once the fuse blows no-one can get to it. Daz

 

[Pat H]

Ok then; I expect the later easier if your in a wheelchair or elderly & infirmed

Yes that makes sense. If the elderly or infirm need to pull the appliance out to do a quick repair its easier if the socket is counter top. Can't imagine they'd get somebody able to do that for them.
I agree for items like kettles toasters etc then counter top of course. But an isolator for an appliance normally only gets used when there's a problem. Should an appliance burst into flames having the isolator above and behind it isn't really much help.

I also agree there is little point in sockets behind appliances.

 

[Midwest]

Yes that makes sense. If the elderly or infirm need to pull the appliance out to do a quick repair its easier if the socket is counter top. Can't imagine they'd get somebody able to do that for them.

Should an appliance burst into flames having the isolator above and behind it isn't really much help.

I also agree there is little point in sockets behind appliances.

Not suggesting the appliance socket should be above the worktop. I was suggesting a DP switch above a worktop would be more accessible for persons with restricted reach, for turning off the appliance, either in the circumstances you describe above or because they feel inclined to.

 

[Midwest]

Scottish Regs stipulate isolation switch above counter top for under counter appaliances. I always put Socket outlets behind the appliance fixed to the structure of the building. Regs are to be followed whether a new build or old.

Only in Scotland does this 'reg' appear to apply.

 

[HandySparks]

I have seen appliance instructions which state not to install in front of a socket outlet. I assume that it's because the back of the appliance gets warm, which might affect the plug. (Think it was a dishwasher.)