ᐅ Blocking access to utility connections or the electrical panel?
Created on: 2 Dec 2022 08:23
S
Stefan001
In our utility room, next to the heating system, we have our main connections, fuse box, inverter, etc., arranged in an area of about 3 x 1.5 meters (10 x 5 feet). We would really like to install a kitchen unit with base cabinets there to gain additional storage space.
However, I keep wondering whether it’s a good idea to permanently block access to this area or if it would be better to have a solution that allows quick removal, for example, drawers that can be easily taken out.
What do you think? Do you perhaps have good ideas for solutions that allow quick access?
At the moment, I’m trying to design the base cabinets in a way that after removing drawers or shelves, there is reasonably free access to the connections. I would also leave the countertop about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) away from the wall.
Fully mobile cabinets on casters, like workshop trolleys, seem somewhat excessive to me, but in case of damage or maintenance, they would probably be very useful.
However, I keep wondering whether it’s a good idea to permanently block access to this area or if it would be better to have a solution that allows quick removal, for example, drawers that can be easily taken out.
What do you think? Do you perhaps have good ideas for solutions that allow quick access?
At the moment, I’m trying to design the base cabinets in a way that after removing drawers or shelves, there is reasonably free access to the connections. I would also leave the countertop about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) away from the wall.
Fully mobile cabinets on casters, like workshop trolleys, seem somewhat excessive to me, but in case of damage or maintenance, they would probably be very useful.
M
Myrna_Loy3 Dec 2022 18:47I may be professionally focused quite strongly on safety and building regulations, but in apartment buildings it is for good reasons not allowed to enclose electrical systems with combustible materials, and it should always be clear to emergency responders where they need to go in case of an emergency. Of course, these regulations cannot be applied one-to-one to private homes—no one would put up emergency exit signs and assembly point notices—but the arguments behind them are worth considering. Do you want someone who has to perform safety measures in your home during an emergency to first have to search around, possibly ending up in a smoke-filled utility room and thinking about removing kitchen drawers? Or rolling storage containers filled with clutter back and forth in a room that is already quite crowded?