Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass Review

Let’s Talk About Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass

Let’s face it, the shower fixtures in most RVs and campers are often an afterthought. The Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass aims to change that, offering a blend of durability and style at an accessible price point. Phoenix Faucets by Valterra promises an upgrade from the typical plastic offerings, and the inclusion of a D-spud for handheld shower compatibility is a definite plus.

My own RV shower valve had seen better days. Years of bouncing down logging roads and baking in the desert sun had taken their toll. I was looking for a replacement that would not only be more reliable but also give the bathroom a bit of a refresh.

Upon unboxing, the valve had a substantial feel, much better than the all-plastic unit it was replacing. The brass underbody provided a sense of quality, and the chrome finish was definitely more appealing than the yellowed plastic of the old valve. It immediately looked like an upgrade.

I considered a few other options, including a brushed nickel finish from another brand and a single-handle valve. I ultimately chose the Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass because of the perceived durability of the brass components and the familiarity of a two-handle design. Plus, the D-spud for a handheld shower head was a key selling point for washing off muddy dogs after hiking.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While it looked and felt better than my old valve, the acrylic knobs and ABS plastic construction still gave me some pause. I was excited to see how it would hold up in the real world.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass to the Test

First Use Experience

The first test was during a weekend camping trip to the Oregon coast. The installation was fairly straightforward, requiring only basic plumbing tools. The shower itself was a welcome change, with a noticeably better water flow compared to the old valve.

Despite the initial reservations, the plastic knobs felt comfortable to grip, even with wet hands. The chrome finish held up well against the moisture, showing no signs of spotting or corrosion. I did notice a slight plastic smell initially, but it dissipated after a few uses.

There were no major issues during the first use, but I was curious to see how it would fare after prolonged use and exposure to varying water pressures and temperatures. I was also keen to see how well the D-spud would work with my existing handheld showerhead.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and regular use while parked at home, the Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass has proven to be a solid performer. There are no leaks, and the water flow remains consistent. The acrylic knobs still look new, with no signs of cracking or discoloration.

The chrome finish has also held up well, even after being subjected to hard water and occasional cleaning with abrasive cleaners. Regular cleaning is easy, requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. I did have to tighten the mounting nuts once after a particularly bumpy drive, but that was easily done with a wrench.

Compared to my previous shower valve, the Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass is a clear upgrade. The improved water flow, durable construction, and aesthetic appeal make it a worthwhile investment. I’m particularly happy with the D-spud, which makes rinsing off sandy gear or the aforementioned muddy dogs a breeze.

Breaking Down the Features of Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass

Specifications

The Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass features a standard 4-inch center distance for easy installation. It has dual clear acrylic knobs for temperature and flow control. The valve body is constructed from non-metallic ABS plastic with a brass underbody for added durability and corrosion resistance.

The unit includes a D-spud outlet to connect a handheld shower, enhancing its versatility. The chrome finish provides a sleek and modern look. It features brass inlet shanks with polymer lining for secure and leak-proof connections. It is designed for a 2-hole installation setup.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the valve’s performance, longevity, and ease of use. The brass underbody is crucial for withstanding water pressure and preventing leaks, while the D-spud expands the shower’s functionality. The 4-inch center distance ensures compatibility with most standard RV shower setups.

Performance & Functionality

The Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass performs its job admirably, providing reliable water flow and temperature control. The two-handle design allows for precise adjustments. The D-spud functions flawlessly with my handheld showerhead, providing a strong and consistent spray.

The valve’s primary strength lies in its simple yet effective design and durable construction. A minor weakness is the plastic knobs, which, while comfortable, don’t feel as premium as metal ones would. Overall, the valve meets and slightly exceeds expectations for an RV shower fixture in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass offers a clean and functional design. The chrome finish is aesthetically pleasing. The valve feels reasonably sturdy, considering the ABS plastic construction.

The two-handle design is intuitive and easy to use, with a comfortable grip on the acrylic knobs. There is no real learning curve, and installation is straightforward for anyone with basic plumbing knowledge. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller RV shower stalls.

Durability & Maintenance

With its brass underbody and polymer-lined brass inlet shanks, the Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass is designed for long-term durability. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner will help maintain the chrome finish. The valve is relatively easy to maintain, and replacement parts, if needed, should be readily available.

While the ABS plastic construction is not as robust as solid brass, it should withstand normal RV use. The key is to avoid excessive force when tightening connections and to protect the valve from freezing temperatures. With proper care, it should last for several years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass does not come with many accessories, but the included D-spud is a significant feature. Users can customize their shower experience by choosing a handheld showerhead that suits their preferences. The standard 1/2-inch connections make it compatible with a wide range of showerheads and hoses from other brands.

While there are no specific customization options for the valve itself, upgrading the acrylic knobs to metal ones could be a potential modification for those seeking a more premium feel. The valve’s universal design also makes it compatible with various escutcheon plates (the decorative plate that covers the wall opening), allowing for further personalization.

Pros and Cons of Phoenix Faucets By Valterra Two-Handle 4″ Shower Valve With D-Spud – Brass