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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.
Item Details
Buyers Guide - Dishwashers
ILC Reference NO 81:20:007
Item sourced from ILC NSW database
Short Description
Dishwashers are a labour saving device, eliminating most of the work involved in washing dishes by hand. The dishes still have to be placed correctly in the dishwasher then removed and put away after the cycle is finished.
Price Guide
Approx Price: $0.00
Price Date: 14/03/2008
More Details
Possible design alternatives:
*In built under bench
*In built elevated (small)
*In built, integrated - with same panel front as cupboards
*Bench top model (small)
*Two - drawer style - can be installed together or apart
*Freestanding - either plumbed in or connected to water outlet for each use
*Mobile - on castors, connected to water outlet for each use
For further information check Choice magazine, the Yellow Pages of the telephone book or talk to a retailer.
We are pleased to receive feedback on the information we provide...
If there is something we should add or need to change, please let us know.
These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable difficulty in performing activities of daily living, consult an occupational therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team (ACAT), or make an appointment with one of the occupational therapists at the ILC.
Features
Available features:
. Interior light
. Programme progress indicator
. Delayed start function
. Anti-flood devices. This activates the water supply valve and the drain pump if there is a water leak in the machine.
. Economy cycles
. Child proof locks
. Height adjustable upper rack to accommodate large items, (306mm)
. A hidden heating element prevents items from damage if they fall through the basket, and food from being burnt onto the element and causing a bad smell.
. Fan assisted drying removes condensation from the inside
. Half load option or load sensor for economic water use
. Salt dispenser for softening the water (if necessary)
. A fault display helps to identify problems that can be rectified with or without a service call
. PC update: If new technology offers improved performance, a service engineer can upgrade your machine's capabilities via a notebook computer, so you and the environment benefit.
Models
The following section includes details of models, which may be suitable for particular users. Models were assessed in collaboration with Choice for their Choice magazine (January/February 2006 issue). There is no guarantee that all models available on the market were assessed.
For Wheelchair Users
Shallower surfaces make reaching easier. Control panels and door handles should be within easy reach from the wheelchair. Doors should be easily opened. There should be a maximum amount of space accessible in the users reach range. Reach range will vary between individuals, but between 230mm and 1350mm from ground height is recommended.
Most dishwashers will be difficult to use for a person in a wheelchair. The Fisher & Paykel dishdrawer machine may be more accessible. Each drawer is purchased separately, allowing for a variety of installation options. Installing each drawer at bench-top level, rather than on top of each other makes accessibility easier for a wheelchair user.
For People with Upper Limb Impairments
Useful features to look for when buying appliances include doors that are not stiff, and handles that are thick, providing a large grip. It is often easier to use a control device that is an easy-to-press button rather than a knob. Any knobs should be large and easy to turn, with little resistance. Check that any dispensers or small components in dishwashers are easy to manage, not requiring fine or forceful movements. Products should be easy to maintain and clean. Choose appliances with components, for example shelving or trays, which move very easily and are not heavy.
The BOSCH Classic Electronic, LG LD-14AW3 and MIELE G 1220 SC are suitable choices, although the compartments on the BOSCH and the rinse aid plug on the LG may be difficult to operate. The FISHER & PAYKEL Dishdrawer has an easy to hold cutlery basket and can be mounted at a reachable height.
The BLANCO BFDW6W and the KLEENMAID DW24 have an easy to use detergent dispenser. The ELECTROLUX EX500 is easy to open and has an easy to grip upper basket, while the ASKO D3350 has good handle on it's bottom basket.
For People with a Visual Impairment
For enhanced visual access, components should be large, well contrasted and tactile. Labelling which is easiest to read is black or navy blue on a white background. A simple and well contrasted picture can be better than a worded label. Other useful features include knobs, buttons and handles that are large and well contrasted to the background and controls or labelling which are raised from the surface of the appliance. It is also useful if other components such as shelving or dispensers are well contrasted to the rest of the appliance. Auditory feedback can ensure that a control has been activated or that the cycle has finished. Generally fewer options are better, as choices are often clearer.
From previous assessments the SIMPSON Eziset 52B870, BLANCO BFDW6W and slimline MIELE and BOSCH models all rated well for people with poor vision.
Previously assessed models: The AEG and Brandt models were rated most highly. The AEG has widely-spaced controls, well contrasted labelling and bright indicator lights. The Brandt has controls with poor contrast, but the controls are very simple, with only 2 buttons, and one dial control. Its simplicity may make it easy to use if control functions were memorised.
For People with Back Pain
In general, it is best to minimise bending and reaching for a sufferer of back pain. Use of a dishwasher that maximises space on the top tray, and avoid using the bottom one. Alternatively, use a bench-top dishwasher or 2 single-drawer dishwashers, each installed at under-bench height rather than at floor height. Avoid appliances with controls knobs at the back, in order to avoid reaching.
The Fisher & Paykel single drawer unit, discussed in previous section for wheelchair users, would also be the most appropriate for a person with back pain.
For People with a Cognitive Impairment
The key is to keep it simple. Labelling that has a very clear and simple picture may be more useful than a word, but this will vary for different people. Choose appliances with few options for the controls and choose items that are safe. For example, doors that slam shut if not held open may cause injury for someone in the way. However, if the person has difficulty remembering to shut the door, a self-closing door may be useful. Choose shelving in dishwashers that will not easily slide right out if pulled too hard or quickly. Avoid appliances with auditory feedback as this will confuse the user, however this can be useful if it successfully reminds the user to do something.
The BOSCH Classic Electronic has simple controls. From previous tests models such as Westinghouse 5B907, Simpson Eziset 52 B870, and BOSCH SGS 4332 AU have a simple one-touch start.
Factors To Consider
. Location in the kitchen area and space available, taking note of plumbing requirements and access to bench and sink. Sufficient space must be allowed to open hinged drop down door.
. Capacity required is described as a number of place settings the dishwasher will hold. Capacity is reflected in the overall size and internal layout and space available.
. Water requirements mean that the pressure must be adequate and whether cold and / or hot water connections are required.
. Controls should be clearly visible and easy to read, as well as easy to turn or push:- Buttons, dials or touch pads are available.
. Door should be able to be opened easily - squeeze or lever action. The possible need for a child proof lock may be considered. As doors open downwards, this can limit access into the dishwasher.
. Racks should slide in / out easily. The presence of stoppers at end of runners can prevent racks falling out. Cutlery racks can be removable or fixed and the handle sizes vary.
. Detergent and rinse aid should be able to be added at a convenient location, and the dispensers should open and close easily. The safety features designed to prevent children reaching detergents may be an
advantage for children, but may make it harder for others to
manipulate.
. Cycles required and the time taken by each one. Wash programmes vary in length of time and temperature of the water.
. Ease of cleaning, so that the filter can be reached and easily removed and replaced.
. Noise level
. Cost of running the dishwasher, with the amount of water used and energy rating. Economy water options.
. Cost of purchase and any installation / plumbing costs.
. Efficiency of washing and drying.
. Length and conditions of warranty.
Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
Additional /images
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