Appliance Placement & Use / Clearance Space

Appropriate knee clearance in height and depth is noted for safety and aesthetic purposes. Floor clearance in front of appliances and the distance from the sink to the dishwasher are noted. The sink's location should be between or across from the cooking area, preparation area or refrigerator. Clearance between the cooking surface and items above it are covered as well as ventilation systems. The cooking surface should not be below an operable window unless minimum clearances are met. The bottom of the microwave oven should be between 24"-48" above the floor. Keep in mind that if it is too high (as in microwave/hood combinations) small persons might burn themselves trying to remove hot objects. See Guidelines 13-21 NKBA's Kitchen Planning Guidelines.