Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler Review

Testing the Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center: What You Need to Know

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center promises a blend of functionality and adaptable design, particularly appealing for RVs and mobile homes where space and adaptability are paramount. This chrome-finished tub filler features a hi-arc spout for extended reach and adjustable flex hoses for flexible handle positioning, aiming to deliver both convenience and aesthetic appeal. I’ve spent years outfitting mobile command centers and recreational vehicles, and I’m always on the lookout for gear that balances durability with clever design.

I was tasked with upgrading the antiquated plumbing in a remote hunting cabin, where the existing tub faucet was not only an eyesore but also severely limited in its reach and adjustability. The promise of adjustable flex hoses and a hi-arc spout sold me on the Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center.

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler arrived in a compact, well-protected package. The chrome finish immediately caught my eye, lending a sense of quality and durability, and the weight felt reassuringly solid without being cumbersome. The adjustable flex hoses appeared robust, and the teapot lever handles had a smooth, satisfying action.

Compared to standard, rigid tub fillers, the Empire Brass unit’s adjustable design offered a clear advantage for my specific installation constraints. I considered a similar Moen option and a Delta faucet with a pull-out sprayer, but the Empire Brass‘s focus on adaptability within a mobile home or RV setting ultimately swayed my decision.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The components appeared well-made, and the design addressed my primary needs, but the true test would be in the installation and long-term performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center in the hunting cabin’s bathroom, a space known for its fluctuating temperatures and occasional humidity. The adjustable flex hoses proved invaluable, allowing me to position the handles perfectly despite the unconventional plumbing layout. The hi-arc spout provided ample clearance for filling buckets and cleaning gear, which was a major improvement over the previous faucet.

The chrome finish held up well even after a mud-splattered hunting trip, requiring only a quick wipe-down to restore its shine. Initial operation was smooth and leak-free, and the teapot lever handles were easy to grip, even with gloved hands.

After the first use, there were no immediate issues. The installation process, while straightforward, required careful attention to ensure proper sealing and alignment of the adjustable components.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center continues to perform reliably. The chrome finish has resisted tarnishing and corrosion despite the cabin’s sometimes damp environment. The lever handles still operate smoothly, and there are no signs of leaks or drips.

I’ve noticed a slight decrease in the responsiveness of one of the quarter-turn washer less cartridges, requiring a bit more force to fully shut off the water flow. A quick cleaning and lubrication seemed to solve this issue.

Compared to previous faucet installations in similar environments, the Empire Brass unit has held up remarkably well. Its adjustable design has proven to be a significant advantage, and the build quality appears to be above average for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center

Specifications

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center is designed primarily for RVs and mobile homes, and it boasts several key specifications that cater to this market. The unit features an adjustable 18-inch center, offering flexibility in handle placement to accommodate various tub configurations. The hi-arc tub spout provides extended reach, making it easier to fill large containers and rinse off gear.

Adjustable flex hoses with non-metallic end valves allow for precise positioning of the handles, while the included chrome escutcheons, mixing tee, and mounting trim ensure a complete and aesthetically pleasing installation. The use of quarter-turn washer less cartridges in the teapot lever handles promises smooth and reliable operation.

These specifications are particularly important in RVs and mobile homes, where space is limited and plumbing layouts can be unconventional. The adjustable design ensures compatibility with a wide range of tubs, while the durable materials and construction guarantee long-lasting performance in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center performs its primary function of delivering water to the tub effectively and reliably. The hi-arc spout provides excellent clearance and reach, making it easy to fill various containers and rinse off items. The adjustable flex hoses allow for optimal handle placement, enhancing usability and convenience.

While the faucet generally performs well, the slight decrease in cartridge responsiveness I observed after extended use indicates a potential area for improvement. Overall, the Empire Brass unit meets expectations for a tub filler in its price range, offering a good balance of functionality and affordability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center features a classic and functional design. The chrome finish is attractive and easy to clean, and the teapot lever handles provide a comfortable and secure grip. The overall weight of the unit is manageable, making installation relatively straightforward.

The adjustable design is a major selling point, allowing for customization of the handle placement to suit individual preferences and plumbing constraints. There is a slight learning curve associated with the installation process, particularly when it comes to ensuring proper sealing and alignment of the adjustable components.

Durability & Maintenance

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center appears to be reasonably durable, with the chrome finish resisting tarnishing and corrosion. The use of quarter-turn washer less cartridges should contribute to long-term reliability.

Maintaining the faucet is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove mineral deposits and grime. The minor cartridge issue I encountered was easily resolved with lubrication, suggesting that maintenance should be straightforward.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, including chrome escutcheons, a mixing tee, and mounting trim. While there are no specific customization options offered by Empire Brass, the faucet is compatible with standard plumbing fittings, allowing for potential modifications or replacements as needed.

Pros and Cons of Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center

Pros

• Adjustable design offers unparalleled flexibility for RVs and mobile homes. This is crucial where space is limited.
• Hi-arc spout provides excellent clearance and reach. Great for filling buckets and washing gear.
• Smooth and reliable quarter-turn washer less cartridges. Ensure ease of use and longevity.
• Attractive and easy-to-clean chrome finish. Maintains its look with minimal effort.
• Complete installation kit included. Everything you need is in the box.

Cons

• Cartridge responsiveness may decrease over time, requiring occasional lubrication.
• Installation requires careful attention to detail to ensure proper sealing.

Who Should Buy Empire Brass Adjustable Concealed Garden Tub Filler With Hi-Arc Spout – 18″ Center?