Let’s Dive into Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose offers a convenient solution for adding an outdoor shower to your RV, camper, or even a backyard setup. Manufactured by Phoenix Faucets by Valterra, this kit provides a self-contained unit with dual knobs for temperature control, a 59″ vinyl hose, and a lockable, fade-resistant case. It’s designed for easy installation and provides a reliable way to rinse off after outdoor adventures.
My interest in this product stemmed from a desire to enhance the functionality of my off-grid cabin. After sweaty hikes and messy fishing trips, a quick rinse before entering the cabin would be invaluable.
Upon unboxing, the unit felt surprisingly lightweight, primarily due to its plastic underbody. The black finish gave it a sleek, modern look, while the dual knobs felt sturdy and easy to grip. The 59″ vinyl hose appeared flexible and of adequate length for most showering needs.
Compared to building a custom outdoor shower setup, the Phoenix Faucets kit offered a significant advantage in terms of convenience and cost. Similar pre-built units often lacked the lockable case or had less durable components, making this a more appealing choice.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the plastic construction raised some questions about long-term durability, the overall design and features seemed promising for my intended use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose on the exterior wall of my cabin, near the water source. The installation process was relatively straightforward, requiring basic plumbing knowledge and tools.
I tested the shower kit after a muddy day of trail maintenance in moderately cool weather. The dual knobs allowed for precise temperature control, and the water flow was consistent and adequate for rinsing off dirt and grime. The quick shut-off feature proved useful for conserving water.
There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I did notice the plastic housing flexed slightly when applying pressure to the knobs. This raised a concern about its long-term durability under heavy use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although the black finish has faded slightly in direct sunlight.
The plastic housing has proven to be more resilient than initially expected, showing no signs of cracking or significant degradation. However, I make sure to winterize the unit properly to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinsing the showerhead and wiping down the exterior is sufficient. Compared to a completely open shower, the enclosed box helps protect the internal components from the elements.
Breaking Down the Features of Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose
Specifications
- Handle Type: Dual Knob. Dual knobs provide independent control over hot and cold water, allowing for precise temperature adjustment.
- Underbody Material: Plastic. The plastic underbody contributes to the unit’s lightweight design, but may sacrifice some durability compared to metal alternatives.
- Valve Type: Compression Valve. Compression valves are generally reliable and easy to repair, though they may require occasional tightening to prevent leaks.
- Hose Length: 59″ Vinyl. The 59-inch hose offers ample reach for showering, but the vinyl material may become stiff in cold weather.
- Dimensions: 12-3/8″ width x 8-3/8″ height. These dimensions are relatively compact, making the unit suitable for installation in various locations.
- Cutout Dimensions: 10-3/4″ width x 5-3/4″ height x 3-11/16″ depth. These dimensions are important for ensuring a proper fit during installation.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides a modern aesthetic, but it may fade over time with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Other Features: Quick shut-off, swivel hands-free bracket, and a fade-resistant case with a key lock. These features enhance the user experience by providing convenience, hands-free operation, and security.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance, durability, and ease of use of the shower kit. The plastic underbody and compression valve affect the unit’s longevity, while the hose length and dual knobs influence its convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose performs its primary function of providing an outdoor shower adequately. The dual knobs offer good temperature control, and the water flow is sufficient for rinsing off dirt and grime.
However, the unit’s plastic construction does feel somewhat flimsy compared to all-metal alternatives. The swivel bracket for the showerhead could also be more robust, as it tends to droop under the weight of the hose and showerhead.
Overall, the Phoenix Faucets kit meets expectations for a basic outdoor shower, but it does not exceed them. It provides a functional and convenient solution, but lacks the premium feel of higher-end models.
Design & Ergonomics
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose features a clean, modern design with its black finish and streamlined housing. The dual knobs are easy to grip and operate, even with wet hands.
However, the plastic construction does detract from the overall feel of quality. The swivel bracket for the showerhead is also somewhat awkwardly positioned, making it difficult to aim the water flow precisely.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Phoenix Faucets kit is relatively user-friendly and requires no significant learning curve. The lockable case provides added security, preventing unauthorized use or tampering.
Durability & Maintenance
The longevity of the Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose remains a concern, primarily due to its plastic underbody and components. While it has held up reasonably well under moderate use, it may not withstand the rigors of heavy or frequent use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the showerhead and wiping down the exterior. However, it’s important to protect the unit from freezing temperatures to prevent damage to the plastic components.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose comes with a 59″ vinyl hose and a swivel hands-free bracket. There are limited customization options available for this product.
It may be possible to replace the showerhead with a different model, but compatibility is not guaranteed. The vinyl hose could also be replaced with a more durable option, such as a stainless steel hose, but this would require some modification to the connections.
Pros and Cons of Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose
Pros
- Convenient and self-contained outdoor shower solution.
- Dual knobs for precise temperature control.
- Lockable case for added security.
- Relatively easy to install.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Plastic underbody and components may lack durability.
- Swivel bracket for the showerhead is not very robust.
- Vinyl hose may become stiff in cold weather.
Who Should Buy Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose?
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose is perfect for RV owners, campers, and off-grid cabin dwellers looking for a convenient and affordable outdoor shower solution. It’s also suitable for homeowners who want to add a simple rinsing station to their backyard or pool area.
This product may not be ideal for those who require a heavy-duty or high-end outdoor shower system. Construction workers or frequent users might find that the plastic components wear out quickly.
A must-have modification would be a higher quality shower head. Also, consider a more flexible and durable hose for better performance in various weather conditions.
Conclusion on Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose
The Phoenix Faucets Exterior Shower Kit Box With 59″ Vinyl Hose offers a practical and budget-friendly solution for adding an outdoor shower to your setup. While its plastic construction may raise some concerns about long-term durability, it provides a functional and convenient way to rinse off after outdoor activities.
The price is justified for the level of convenience and functionality it offers. It’s a good value for those who need a basic outdoor shower and are willing to accept some compromises in terms of build quality.
I would personally recommend the Phoenix Faucets kit to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-install outdoor shower solution. Just be aware of its limitations and take proper care to extend its lifespan. Add this kit to your outdoor setup and enjoy the convenience of a refreshing rinse after every adventure!