Let’s Dive into Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic is a budget-friendly solution for RV owners looking to replace or upgrade their existing tub and shower fixtures. Manufactured by Phoenix Faucets, a division of Valterra, this kit offers a complete package including the faucet, shower head, arm, and flange, all designed for easy installation in RVs and campers. Its dual clear acrylic knobs and chrome finish provide a clean aesthetic, while the DuraPro plastic underbody ensures a lead-free water pathway. This kit aims to provide a functional and visually appealing upgrade without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing affordability and ease of installation in their mobile living spaces.
My old RV shower faucet had seen better days; it was leaky, the finish was peeling, and honestly, it just looked gross. I needed a replacement that was both affordable and easy to install, given my limited plumbing experience.
Upon unboxing, I was surprised by the lightness of the unit; the plastic construction was immediately apparent. The chrome finish, while decent, didn’t quite have the heft and shine of a metal fixture, but for the price, I wasn’t expecting miracles.
I considered a few other options, like the Dura Faucet RV Shower Faucet (metal, but pricier) and another all-plastic model from a different brand. I ultimately chose the Phoenix Faucets option because of the Phoenix Faucets reputation for RV-specific products and the straightforward design.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the faucet looked functional and the clear acrylic handles added a touch of style. I was hoping the plastic construction would hold up well and provide a leak-free seal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic in my RV’s bathroom, a cramped space that demands efficient and reliable fixtures. The installation process was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the 4-hole setup matching my existing plumbing.
The faucet performed well initially, delivering a consistent water flow and a decent shower spray. The plastic shower head felt a bit flimsy, but it did the job without any immediate issues.
No major problems arose during the first few uses, although I did notice a slight plastic smell coming from the shower head when the water was very hot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during a cross-country RV trip, the Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic has shown some signs of wear. The chrome finish on the shower head is starting to show water spots, and one of the clear acrylic handles feels slightly loose.
The durability of the plastic underbody seems adequate, with no leaks or cracks developing. Cleaning the faucet is relatively easy, requiring only a mild soap and water solution.
Compared to my previous, similarly priced faucet, the Phoenix Faucets model performs slightly better in terms of water flow consistency, but the overall build quality feels similar. It won’t outperform a higher-end metal faucet, but it’s a reasonable option for budget-conscious RVers.
Breaking Down the Features of Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic
Specifications
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic is designed specifically for RV and camper use, featuring an 8″ center distance between the hot and cold water inlets. The faucet utilizes a lead-free DuraPro plastic underbody, ensuring safe drinking water.
The kit includes a standard ABS shower head, arm, and flange, all finished with chrome. It is designed for a 4-hole installation, simplifying the replacement of existing faucets.
The 8-inch center measurement is crucial for compatibility with standard RV plumbing setups, making installation easier for DIYers.
The DuraPro plastic underbody is a key feature, providing peace of mind regarding water safety and compliance with lead-free regulations.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic is to provide a reliable and easy-to-use water control system for RV showers and tubs. The diverter mechanism allows for seamless switching between the tub spout and shower head.
The faucet performs adequately, delivering a consistent water flow and temperature control. The main weakness lies in the plastic construction, which doesn’t offer the same robust feel as metal fixtures, and the shower head offers a basic spray pattern.
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic meets basic expectations for an RV shower faucet, but it doesn’t exceed them in terms of build quality or features.
Design & Ergonomics
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic features a classic two-handle design with clear acrylic knobs for easy temperature and flow control. The chrome finish provides a clean and modern look, although the plastic construction is evident upon closer inspection.
The faucet is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The clear acrylic handles are easy to grip, even with wet hands, and the diverter knob is simple to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction of the Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic raises concerns about long-term durability. While the DuraPro plastic underbody is designed to resist corrosion, the shower head and handles may be more susceptible to wear and tear.
Maintaining the faucet is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning with mild soap and water. Replacing the shower head or handles is relatively easy if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic comes as a complete kit, including the faucet, shower head, arm, and flange. There are limited customization options available directly from Phoenix Faucets.
However, the standard shower head connection allows for easy replacement with aftermarket shower heads offering different spray patterns or features. The faucet itself is designed as a drop-in replacement, so external customization is limited.
Pros and Cons of Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic
Pros
- Affordable Price: Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic offers a cost-effective solution for RV owners seeking a replacement faucet without a huge investment.
- Easy Installation: Designed with a 4-hole setup, making it easy to replace existing faucets, even for those with limited plumbing experience.
- Lead-Free DuraPro Plastic: Ensures safe drinking water, providing peace of mind for RVers concerned about water quality.
- Complete Kit: Includes everything needed for installation: faucet, shower head, arm, and flange.
- Clear Acrylic Handles: Easy to grip and provide a clean aesthetic.
Cons
- Plastic Construction: The plastic build feels less durable compared to metal fixtures, raising concerns about long-term wear and tear.
- Basic Shower Head: The included shower head offers only a basic spray pattern and lacks premium features.
Who Should Buy Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic?
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic is perfect for RV owners on a budget who need a functional and easy-to-install replacement faucet. It’s also well-suited for those who prioritize a lead-free water system.
This product is not for those seeking a high-end, durable faucet with premium features. If you’re looking for a long-lasting fixture with a luxurious shower experience, you should consider a metal faucet with a more advanced shower head.
A must-have modification would be to replace the shower head with a higher quality, water-saving model for an improved showering experience.
Conclusion on Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic
The Phoenix Faucets Two-Handle 8″ Tub/Shower Diverter Faucet With Shower Head Kit – Plastic is a decent budget option for RV owners needing a replacement shower faucet. While the plastic construction may not inspire confidence in long-term durability, the lead-free design and easy installation make it a practical choice.
The price is certainly justified for what you get; a functional and complete replacement kit.
I would recommend this product to budget-conscious RVers who understand the limitations of plastic fixtures and are willing to potentially replace it sooner than a metal alternative. It’s a practical solution for getting your RV shower back in working order without breaking the bank.