When it comes to designing a kitchen, careful consideration of electrical, plumbing, and water connections is essential before initiating the installation process. In this article, we will discuss key points to keep in mind during the kitchen planning phase.
Electrical Points:
For seamless operation of electrical appliances such as juicers, blenders, and other gadgets placed on the worktop, it is crucial to determine the appropriate height for electrical switches. In Pakistan, specifically Karachi, the standard worktop height is usually 34″. Adding a 3″ backsplash would bring it to 37″. Therefore, positioning the electrical points at a height of 42″ from the finished floor level is advisable, providing convenient access while maintaining a safe distance.
In the case of a microwave, a dedicated power point should be placed at a height of 60″ from the finished floor. If an oven is to be installed alongside the microwave within a tall unit, the oven point should be situated below the oven within a cabinet. It is recommended to link the on/off switch for the microwave with the oven point, ensuring ease of operation and control.
Light points positioned beneath the wall cabinets are essential for illuminating the worktop area. These light points should be fixed at a height of 5 feet from the finished floor. Additionally, an extractor (exhaust hood) point should be installed at a height of 7 feet 3 inches from the finished floor. To provide ample lighting for glass units and both sides of the extractor, it is advisable to incorporate at least two extra light points above the wall cabinets.
The oven point should be placed 18″ above the finished floor level, allowing for comfortable access and usage.
Sink Points:
With the prevailing trend of sink-mounted faucets (mixer taps) as opposed to the older wall-mounted style, it is important to position the water connection points at a height of 20″ from the finished floor. The drain point should be located 6″ below the water connection points, preferably on the wall rather than the floor. Adding a plug on the rear side of the wall, accessible in case of drain pipe blockage, aligns with the common practice in Pakistan.
Gas Points:
Gas points should be situated closest to the hob and approximately 28″ from the finished floor level. If there are drawers beneath the hob, it is advisable to place the gas point adjacent to the hob cabinet. In the case of a gas oven or a built-in oven, the gas points should be positioned together with the electrical point of the hob, approximately 22 inches above the finished floor.
Exhaust Hob:
For optimal ventilation, the exhaust hole should be placed at the maximum height of the kitchen, typically around 7 feet and 1 inch, with a diameter of 7 inches.
Wall Tiles:
In terms of installation, it is recommended to fix the wall tiles after the cabinets have been properly installed using bonding material. This ensures a seamless and uniform appearance.
Window Sill Level:
To prevent water from splashing onto the window, especially when the sink is positioned beneath it, the kitchen window sill should be set at a height of 42 inches from the finished floor level.
By carefully considering these key points during the kitchen planning stage, you can ensure both functionality and aesthetics, resulting in a well-designed and efficient kitchen space.