Replacement Drawers for Nobilia Kitchens
A drawer system replacement for a Nobilia kitchen requires an exact match in cabinet width, nominal length of the drawer runners, and the System 32 hole pattern.
When runners in an existing kitchen jam, soft-close mechanisms fail, or an upgrade from a partial extension to a full extension is required, it is time to replace the drawers or their runners. Many kitchen cabinets, including models from well-known manufacturers, are based on standardised modular dimensions. Components from furnica can serve as suitable replacements for Nobilia kitchens, provided the technical specifications are closely observed. This guide is aimed at fitters and experienced tradespeople who want to replace runner systems or complete pull-outs properly.
What to Look for Regarding Compatibility (Dimensions and Technology)
The most important factor when retrofitting or replacing kitchen drawers is dimensional accuracy. A visually similar system does not necessarily fit into the existing cabinet carcase. The following parameters must be checked before making a selection:
1. Cabinet Width and Internal Clearance
Kitchen cabinets are generally named after their external dimensions. Standard widths are 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm, and 60 cm. For fitting runners, however, the internal clearance (the inside dimension) is decisive. This is calculated from the external cabinet dimension minus the thickness of both side panels. With many kitchen manufacturers, the cabinet sides consist of chipboard with a thickness of 16 mm or 19 mm. For example, for a 60 cm cabinet with 16 mm side panels: 600 mm - 32 mm = 568 mm internal clearance. The new drawer runner must be engineered precisely for this internal dimension.
2. Nominal Length of the Runners
The nominal length describes the length of the closed runner, not the extension distance. Typical nominal lengths in kitchen base units are between 450 mm and 500 mm. For shallower cabinet depths, shorter options such as drawer runners 400 mm or drawer runners 350 mm are used. The nominal length of the new runner should match the old one so that the drawer closes flush with the front edge of the cabinet and does not strike the back panel.
3. The System 32 and Fitting Positions
Nearly all modern kitchen carcases are drilled according to System 32. This means the vertical distance between drill holes is always 32 mm. The front row of holes is positioned 37 mm from the front edge of the cabinet by default. If the replacement runners support this hole pattern, the existing drill holes in the cabinet can be used directly.
Suitable Drawer Alternatives and Runner Types
As an alternative to original Nobilia parts, furnica offers various systems that are compatible with standard grid dimensions. The choice depends on the desired convenience and the weight of the contents.
Comparison of Runner Types
- Ball-bearing runner: Here, steel balls run within a profile. They are robust, side-mounted, and offer high load capacities.
- Undermount runner: The runner is mounted invisibly beneath the drawer base. This is the standard in modern fitted kitchens.
- Roller runner: A simpler system with plastic rollers, often found in lighter drawers. Replacing them with drawer runners roller runner is straightforward, but usually offers only partial extension.
Comfort Functions: Soft-Close vs Push-to-Open
It is technically essential to distinguish between soft-close damping and handleless opening, as the mechanisms work in opposite ways:
- Drawer runners with soft-close catch the momentum of the closing drawer and pull it shut softly and silently over the last few centimetres.
- Drawer runners push-to-open (tip-on) feature a spring that pushes the drawer out of the carcase when pressure is applied to the front. They are suitable for handleless fronts. Combining both systems in a standard runner is mechanically impossible without specialised add-on modules.
Load Capacity and Extension Type
For drawers storing pots, pans, or heavy crockery, upgrading to drawer runners heavy duty is advisable. These offer load capacities from 45 kg to over 80 kg. In addition, drawer runners full extension should always be fitted in a kitchen. Unlike a partial extension, where around 25% of the drawer remains inside the cabinet, a full extension pulls out 100%, making access to items at the back considerably easier.
Complete Drawer Units for Specific Cabinet Widths
If you need to replace not only the runner but the entire drawer (box including runner), the dimension must be matched precisely to the cabinet. furnica offers pre-configured solutions suited for Nobilia and other modular systems:
- For narrow larder units or towel rails: kitchen cabinet pull out 15 cm or kitchen cabinet pull out 20 cm.
- For standard base units: kitchen cabinet pull out 30 cm and kitchen cabinet pull out 40 cm.
- For wide pan drawers: kitchen cabinet pull out 60 cm.
To make the best use of the newly gained space, using suitable kitchen drawer organisers after fitting is recommended to secure cutlery and cooking utensils without slipping.
Fitting and Retrofitting: Step by Step
Replacing a drawer runner is like a pit stop in a workshop – with the correct techniques and precise parts, the system is quickly back in service.
Required tools:
- Cordless drill/driver
- Screwdriver or bit (usually PZ2 for chipboard screws)
- Tape measure or folding ruler
- Bradawl or small punch
- Spirit level
1. Removing Old Components
Pull the old drawer out fully. On undermount runners, plastic locking clips are often located on the underside. These must be squeezed to release the drawer from the runner. Then unscrew the old runners from the cabinet carcase.
2. Preparation and Alignment
Check whether the new runners have the same hole pattern. If they do, the existing 5 mm drill holes can be used. If new holes must be drilled: mark the horizontal line using a spirit level. The front fixing screw for standard concealed hinges and runners is usually located exactly 37 mm from the front carcase edge.
3. Mounting the Runners
Fasten the new runners to the inner sides of the carcase. Use Euro screws (for 5 mm holes) or classic chipboard screws (e.g. 3.5 mm x 15 mm) for new positions. Ensure the screw heads sit completely flush so that the running mechanisms of the slides are not blocked.
4. Inserting and Adjusting the Drawer
Place the drawer onto the extended runners. On systems with locking clips, push the drawer back with gentle pressure until a distinct click is heard. On modern runner systems, the front panel can then be adjusted in height and tilt via adjustment screws on the clip or drawer side to achieve a uniform gap pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use any runner as a replacement for a Nobilia kitchen? No. The runner must match the internal clearance of the carcase, the cabinet depth (nominal length), and the construction of the drawer (undermount vs side-mounted). Pay attention to the specified compatible side panel thickness (often 16 mm).
How do I measure the nominal length correctly? The nominal length is measured on the removed, fully closed runner. Measure from the rearmost edge to the frontmost edge of the metal profile. The extension distance (how far the runner extends) is irrelevant for this measurement.
What is the difference between roller runners and ball-bearing runners? Roller runners use plastic rollers that run in a coated metal profile. They are often found in older or basic furniture. Ball-bearing runners use telescopic slides made of galvanised steel with ball bearings. They run significantly smoother, are less prone to jamming, and can support considerably higher loads.
Can soft-close and push-to-open be combined? In standard fittings, these functions are mutually exclusive. Soft-close actively pulls the drawer shut, whereas push-to-open actively pushes it open. Special, complex mechanisms exist on the market that combine both, but these often require an entirely new drawer box and dedicated routing.