Drawers Suitable for Pelipal Kitchens

A matching replacement drawer system for branded kitchens requires exact matches in nominal length, internal cabinet width, and the fixing hole pattern used.

Drawers Suitable for Pelipal Kitchens: Compatibility and Replacement Parts

When runners in a Pelipal kitchen wear out after years of use or a functional upgrade of the furniture unit is due, replacing the mechanical hardware is the logical step. Fittings and runner systems do not necessarily have to be sourced from the original furniture manufacturer during a repair or upgrade. The decisive factor for a successful replacement is technical compatibility. As long as the installation dimensions, nominal length, and load capacity match, modern drawer runners can be used without issue as alternatives to factory-fitted components.

This article highlights the technical parameters to consider when selecting replacement parts suitable for Pelipal units and explains how to carry out the replacement professionally.

What to Look for Regarding Compatibility

To ensure smooth operation, the new fittings must precisely match the geometry of the existing cabinet carcass. The System 32 standard acts as a standardised coordinate system in cabinet making: it defines the spacing between drill holes as exactly 32 mm and the distance from the front row of holes to the front edge of the cabinet carcass as 37 mm. If the kitchen is manufactured according to this grid, replacement runners can usually be fitted without drilling additional holes.

Check the following technical dimensions before replacement:

• Nominal length (NL): This is the length of the runner in its fully closed state. In kitchen base units, common lengths are usually in the range of 450 mm - 500 mm. The runner must never be longer than the internal cabinet depth.
• Installation width: The lateral space between the drawer side panel and the internal cabinet wall. With standard side-mounted ball bearing runners, this dimension is typically 12.7 mm per side.
• Extension type: A full extension runner pulls 100% out of the cabinet, allowing access to the entire contents in kitchen units. A single extension runner opens the drawer only up to around 75%.
• Fixing: Mounting to the carcass wall is done either using 5 mm thick Euro screws that locate directly into the system holes, or via chipboard screws (usually 3.5 mm or 4 mm diameter) with a PZ drive.

Matching Fittings and Systems for Retrofitting

Depending on requirements and the weight of the contents, different types of runners can serve as replacements for Pelipal.

Full Extension Runners for Maximum Access

Full extension drawer runners are recommended for replacement in kitchen cupboards. They make it effortless to access pots or stored items right at the back of the drawer. When changing from single extension to full extension, simply ensure that the installation width is identical or adjust the drawer box accordingly.

Soft-Close Systems

A frequent reason for replacing older runners is the desire for greater convenience. Soft-close drawer runners feature an integrated soft-close mechanism. This brakes the drawer over the final centimetres of travel and draws it gently and quietly into the cabinet carcass. Note: a soft-close system is mechanically the exact opposite of push-to-open (handleless opening), and standard runners generally do not combine both functions within the same unit.

Heavy-Duty Runners for Pots and Crockery

Drawers positioned under hobs or used for pantry storage must carry heavy weights. Standard roller runners quickly reach their limits here. Heavy-duty drawer runners offer a sturdy alternative. Made from thicker steel, they provide load capacities of 30 kg, 45 kg, or even up to 100 kg. When installing, make sure that fixings into the cabinet wall are adequately sized to absorb leverage forces when the drawer is fully extended.

Complete Drawer Systems

If not only the runner but also the wooden drawer box is damaged, complete drawer systems are an ideal solution. These consist of double-walled metal sides into which only a wooden base and back panel (typically 16 mm thick chipboard) need to be fitted. The front panel from the Pelipal kitchen can be reattached to the new system using compatible front fixing brackets, keeping the external appearance of the kitchen unchanged.

Internal Accessories Suitable for Kitchen Drawers

Following the technical replacement of the runners, the drawer interiors can also be tailored. To protect the drawer base from scratches caused by pans and to prevent items sliding around during opening and closing, a non-slip drawer mat is a practical addition. It can be easily trimmed to exact internal dimensions using a utility knife.

For cutlery drawers or provisions storage, a kitchen drawer organiser provides neat organisation. Runner systems can also be used in sink base cabinets. Here, a pull-out kitchen bin is often screwed directly onto the cabinet floor or attached to the front panel, utilising the same functional principles of ball bearing runners or undermount runners.

Installation and Retrofitting: Step-by-Step

Replacing drawer runners is straightforward for fitters and experienced DIYers. Precise alignment is the most important factor.

Required Tools

• Cordless drill/driver
• Screwdriver (PZ or PH, depending on screw type)
• Tape measure or folding rule
• Spirit level
• Pencil and bradawl

Installation Sequence

1. Removal: Take out the old drawer. For undermount runners, this is typically done via release clips on the underside; for side-mounted ball bearing runners, via a small release lever on the runner profile.
2. Remove runners: Unscrew the old cabinet profiles from the carcass.
3. Transfer dimensions: Mark the positions for the new runners. If System 32 drilling is present, the same holes can often be reused. Otherwise, mark the height accurately using a spirit level.
4. Mount cabinet profiles: Secure the new runners firmly to the carcass using Euro screws or wood screws. For heavy-duty runners, utilise all designated fixing points.
5. Mount drawer profiles: Attach the mating runner part to the drawer box (for side-mounted runners) or screw the clips to the drawer bottom (for undermount systems).
6. Insert and adjust: Slide the drawer in. Modern undermount systems feature adjustment wheels on the clips to align the tilt, height, and lateral position of the front precisely with the surrounding kitchen unit gaps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding Compatibility

Can I use any runner as a replacement for my kitchen? No. The installation width and extension type must match the existing drawer box. A side-mounted ball bearing runner requires different lateral clearance compared to a concealed undermount runner.

How do I measure the runner length correctly? Always measure the nominal length when fully closed. The length is specified in millimetres. Measure only the metal runner, excluding any protruding plastic parts.

Can soft-close dampers be retrofitted to older drawers? Separate damper units can be screwed into the cabinet carcass. However, the technically cleaner and longer-lasting solution is to replace the complete runner with a model featuring an integrated soft-close cylinder.

Are heavy-duty runners thicker than standard runners? Yes, heavy-duty runners use thicker gauge material and larger ball bearings. As a result, the required installation width may change (e.g. 19.1 mm instead of 12.7 mm). This must be taken into account before replacing, otherwise the drawer will not fit back into the cabinet.