Ensuring that your facility meets ADA drinking fountain requirements is crucial for providing accessible and inclusive public spaces. ADA compliant water fountains are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has access to clean drinking water. In this article, we'll explore the key ADA requirements for drinking fountains, including height, design, and common misconceptions.

Key ADA Requirements for Drinking Fountains

ADA requirements for drinking fountains are designed to ensure accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities. These requirements include specific dimensions, placement, and operational features that make the fountains usable by individuals in wheelchairs and those with limited mobility. ADA water fountain standards mandate that fountains be installed at appropriate heights, have adequate knee and toe clearance, and be operable with minimal force.

Detailed Guide to ADA Drinking Fountain Height Requirement

One of the most critical aspects of ADA compliant water fountains is the height requirement. The ADA drinking fountain height requirement specifies that wheelchair accessible drinking fountains should have a spout height no higher than 36 inches from the floor. Additionally, the water flow must be at least 4 inches high to allow for easy access. Proper height ensures that individuals using wheelchairs can comfortably use the drinking fountain without straining. Bubble water-flow-height can be easily adjusted on Elkay model drinking fountains by turning a screw on the regulator cartridge. This can be found near the bubbler once you have removed the cover / shroud of the drinking fountain.  

ADA Hi Low Drinking Fountain Requirements  

ADA hi low drinking fountain requirements address the need for both wheelchair accessible and standing accessible options. Hi low drinking fountains (also known as bi-level) feature two spouts at different heights, typically 36 inches, the required maximum height for wheelchairs, and 38 to 43 inches from the floor, the height required for standing persons. If installing a water fountain for facilities that typically service children under the age of 12, the bubbler-height should be 30” off the ground. Understanding these requirements is essential for ensuring compliance and meeting the needs of all users. 

What is a Cane Apron and Do I Need One?

A "cane apron" refers to an accessibility feature designed to make the fountain usable by blind individuals or those with sight-impairment who use a cane for walking. By reducing the empty space below the fountain, the cane apron enables the user to identify the fountain when the walking stick comes into contact with it. Otherwise, the user could unintentionally hit the fountain, or simply not know that it is there, missing out on a cool drink of water when it is most needed. 

The cane apron is intended to lower the detectable portion of the fountain to 27” (686 mm) above the floor as required by Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If the drinking fountain is located in an alcove, or does not protrude more than 4” into the passageway, then it is already considered ADA-compliant, without a cane apron. Creating other barriers, such as locating benches on either side of the cooler can also satisfy this requirement. However, there still must be enough clear floor-space around the fountain to accommodate a wheelchair. If is not recessed into an alcove, the space required around the fountain is 48” from the wall and 30” wide, centered on the fountain. 

 This design feature is particularly important for compliance with accessibility standards, such as those set by the ADA in the United States. These standards ensure that public drinking fountains are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their mobility capabilities. Cane aprons can be purchased separately from the drinking fountain and are easily attached. Be sure to find one that fits your model.

For a drinking fountain to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it doesn’t necessarily need a cane apron specifically, but it must meet certain other accessibility criteria. In addition to the space needed for wheelchair accessibility, these criteria include providing knee and toe space for a person standing over a water fountain. 

Thus, while a cane apron is a helpful feature, the key is ensuring that there is enough space and the proper installation height to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

The ADA guidelines specify that if a drinking fountain is installed for standing persons, there must also be a drinking fountain or water cooler that is accessible to those in wheelchairs, typically lower in height. This accessible unit should have clear floor space and an insulated spout, and it must be operable with one hand without tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist. Installing a bottle filling station in addition to a standard-height bubbler does not satisfy the ADA requirements. Bottle-fillers should also be installed at wheelchair accessible heights.

Force Required to Operate an ADA Drinking Fountain

The force needed to operate an ADA-compliant drinking fountain is 5 lbs. If the specification sheet for your drinking fountain states that it is ADA-compliant, then this requirement has been satisfied. Most drinking fountains have been programmed to require far less force than this. Some fountains that are not-powered or are vandal-resistant, may require more force and are therefore not ADA-compliant.  

Compliance with ADA guidelines involves careful planning of both the height and the approach to the fountain to ensure it can be used comfortably by all individuals.

Common Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions about ADA drinking fountain requirements. One misconception is that any drinking fountain can be made ADA compliant simply by adjusting the height. However, ADA compliant water fountains must also meet other criteria, such as adequate knee and toe clearance, easy operability, and appropriate spout height and water flow. Another misconception is that only new constructions need to comply with ADA standards; in reality, any facility undergoing renovations must also meet these requirements.

How to Ensure Your Facility Meets ADA Drinking Fountain Requirements

Ensuring your facility meets drinking fountain ADA requirements involves careful planning and installation. Start by consulting ADA guidelines to understand the specific requirements for your type of facility. Consider the placement of the fountains to ensure they are easily accessible from all areas. Additionally, work with certified installers who are familiar with ADA water cooler regulations and standards to ensure proper installation. Regular maintenance is also essential to keep the fountains in compliance and operational.

Explore the Berl's Drinking Fountain Inventory

At Berl's, we offer a comprehensive selection of ADA compliantwater fountains andbottle fillers designed to meet all ADA drinking fountain requirements. Our inventory includes a variety of styles and models, including hi low drinking fountains and wheelchair accessible drinking fountains. Whether you're outfitting a new facility or upgrading existing amenities, Berl's has the products you need to ensure compliance and provide accessible drinking solutions for all users.

Adhering to ADA drinking fountain requirements is essential for creating accessible public spaces. By understanding and implementing the key requirements, including height, design, and placement, you can ensure your facility is compliant and welcoming to all individuals. Explore Berl's extensive inventory of ADA compliant water fountains to find the perfect solution for your needs.