Q. Can you tell me what comes in a box; do I need to order anything else to fit my kitchen?
A. The Rapide+ box will generally include all components required to assemble the unit (including fascias, cabinet, handles and fittings required to assemble that unit).
It will not include plinths (to hide base unit legs) or cornice trim for the top and bottom of wall units. These should be purchased separately and are contained within the accessories category.
Units will not include wall fixings, as different fixings are required for different types of wall construction.
Q. Are there any exceptions to these; for example, on the label some items say: ’Box 1 of 2’?
A. In a few cases it is necessary to pack some items separately (usually because of weight constraints).
If this is the case, the label will be clearly marked ‘Box 1 of 2 – NOT TO BE PURCHASED SEPARATELY’. For example, larder units will require 2 boxes to be purchased.
Q. If I don’t like the handle that’s shown on display or in the photographs, can I change it for an alternative handle?
A. Unfortunately we do not sell handles separately. The handle that is specified is the handle we believe is best suited for the range. Whilst we recognise that handle choice is very subjective, we include that handle in the box, so we cannot replace one handle for another.
Q. Can I buy doors separately?
A. Unfortunately, all Rapide+ ranges are supplied complete with the doors, cabinet and handles. Gower does not sell Rapide+ doors separately.
Q. Can I buy direct from Gower?
A. Whilst Gower does not supply direct we have a network of retailers throughout the UK and are happy to provide names and addresses of your nearest retailer – please contact Gower head office on 01422 232200.
Q. Does the Rapide+ range come with a guarantee?
A. Yes, the Rapide+ range comes with a 5 year guarantee against manufacture faults.
Q. Who do I contact if my kitchen has developed a manufacture fault in the 5 year guarantee period?
A. In the first instance contact your retailer and provide details of the fault with your proof of purchase. In the case of a manufacture fault, details of the complaint will be passed onto Gower Customer Services for further investigation to agree the course of action to resolve.
Q. Who can I contact for advice about the Rapide Plus range or with a technical query?
A. Please contact Gower Customer Services on 0113 201 3494 Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.
Q. I have opened my unit and found an item to be incorrect or damaged?
A. In the unlikely event that any item is damaged or incorrect in your pack, please contact your retailer with details of the item and the unit, noting the batch number from the box (10 digit number prefixed with ‘Q’).
Your retailer can sometimes supply small fittings from a spares kit or will alternatively request replacement parts from the manufacturer to be sent direct to your home.
Q. Does the Rapide+ range of units come with soft close doors and drawers?
A. Soft close for doors is available as an upgrade. The price list includes a pack of 5 door buffers which are simple to fit to the inside of your cabinets. Soft close drawers are not available in the Rapide+ range currently.
Q. When planning and fitting my kitchen, where should I start?
A. Always start from the corner and work outwards.
Q. How do I plan a corner?
A. There is a page on the web site that refers to planning corners (click here). Have a look at the dimensions required, depending on the size of the corner unit you wish to use.
Q. Is there a required distance between kitchen units on opposite walls I should know about?
A. Yes, you should always try and keep a gap of approximately 1200mm between base units positioned on opposite walls if possible.
Q. When planning my cooking area do I need any space either side of the hob?
A. You should maintain a safety space of at least 200/300mm between the edge of your hob/oven top and any adjacent tall units. Also make sure the same point applies between the hob edge and the edge of your worktop.
Q. What should I consider when thinking about lighting in the kitchen?
A. Help yourself by making sure work areas, hob and sink are well lit. Wall units will accommodate fluorescent lights beneath, giving excellent glare and shadow free work surfaces.
Q. I'm thinking of fitting my own kitchen. When is it right to get the experts in?
A. Ensure that all services, gas, electric, water etc. are installed by professionals and conform to all necessary regulations.
Q. Is there a recommended place for my sink to be planned?
A. Position your sink beneath your window if possible. If you must do the washing up at least have a reasonable view!
Q. Where is the best place to position my washing machine and dishwasher?
A. Keep plumbing runs as small as possible. Careful positioning can save you money on fitting and running costs, an important factor in home budgeting. Keep washing machines and dishwashers close to the sink.
Q. Can you advise me on important safety issues when considering my kitchen plan?
A. Do not put an oven or hob under a window where curtains or blinds would create a safety hazard. Do not position your oven/hob or any power points within reach of the sink, again for safety's sake! Do not position your oven/hob close to room doors, where anyone entering or leaving could catch pan handles.
Q. I have heard that putting your fridge next to an oven is not possible. Is this true?
A. Positioning your fridge or freezer next to an oven is possible but it should have adequate insulation between the two. Otherwise the appliance has to work very hard keeping the temperature low. Think of the running costs of that.
Q. Planning a kitchen - where do I start?
A. Ask yourself what do you want from your kitchen. Answer the simple questions before starting the plan.
How many people are in your family? – This will help to plan how much storage you need.
Does the family want to eat in the kitchen? – You may want a breakfast bar.
How often do you go food shopping? – This will help you think about food storage and fridge/freezer requirements.
Make a list of your appliances and list their sizes so that you can think about where to position these.
