b&Q Soft Close Drawer Problems

Homeowners who have purchased the B&Q Soft Close drawers have reported certain issues, particularly with stiffness when pulling the drawers out. Specifically, there are noticeable differences in how smoothly the drawers operate. While some glide effortlessly, others need a considerable push. There are instances where the soft close feature doesn’t work unless the drawer is pushed to about an inch away from the closing point.

Possible Causes:

1. Misalignment: The positioning and layout of the drawers in the cabinet could result in differing operation smoothness across drawers. The cabinet dimensions might not be perfectly suited to the drawers.
2. Mechanical Glitches: The soft close mechanism might be malfunctioning or may not have been installed correctly.
3. Obstructions: Foreign objects, debris, or even sawdust from the installation process can get caught in the drawer’s tracks, causing it to not slide as smoothly as it should.
4. Usage Patterns: The frequency of use and the weight of items stored in the drawers might affect the performance over time.

Potential Solutions:

1. Reinstall the Mechanism: A basic step would be to revisit the installation instructions and ensure that everything is set up correctly. This can help in identifying if any steps were missed or if any parts were not properly tightened.
2. Lubrication: Applying grease or other lubricants can ensure the drawers slide more smoothly. This, however, is a temporary solution and may need to be repeated over time.
3. Adjustment: Some drawers come with adjustable settings. Tweaking these can improve the slide and soft close feature.
4. Ensure Cleanliness: Check for and remove any debris or foreign objects that may be obstructing the slide.
5. Cabinet Adjustments: If the cabinet is too wide, consider adding packers behind the screw plates to adjust the width. This has proven effective in some cases.
6. Seeking Professional Opinion: If problems persist, it might be beneficial to seek expert advice. Sometimes, the issue may not be with the drawer but with the cabinet or the way the house has settled over time. An expert can provide insights into such nuances.

Alternative Products:

While B&Q Soft Close drawers are popular, there are other brands like Blum that have been reported to have smoother functioning and might be worth considering if issues persist.

Conclusion:

While the B&Q Soft Close drawers are designed for ease and convenience, like all products, they might have occasional hitches. The key is to diagnose the problem accurately and apply the appropriate solution. Whether it’s a minor adjustment, a full re-installation, or seeking expert advice, addressing the problem promptly ensures longevity and smooth functioning of the drawers.