The Artiqua freestanding tub filler is a high-quality plumbing fixture designed for modern, freestanding bathtubs. It offers a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional design, with a unique feature set that distinguishes it from many competitors in the market. This article provides an in-depth overview of the Artiqua model, including its specifications, installation considerations, and user feedback as described in available documentation.
Overview of the Artiqua Freestanding Tub Filler
The Artiqua freestanding tub filler is notable for its independent control of both the tub faucet and shower head, a feature that sets it apart from many single-lever designs. This design is intended to improve user experience by eliminating the potential confusion associated with diverter valves and by ensuring water is directed precisely where needed.
The tub filler includes long levers that provide easy control, particularly for users with limited dexterity. The spout height is 42 inches from the floor, making it suitable for deep soaking tubs. The construction is primarily brass, with a ceramic cartridge that ensures smooth operation and a high-quality aerator for water flow efficiency.
Available finishes include black, brushed gold, brushed nickel, chrome, and oil-rubbed bronze. This range allows for compatibility with various bathroom design styles, from contemporary to traditional.
The flow rates for the Artiqua model are 6 gallons per minute (GPM) for the tub spout and 2.5 GPM for the shower head. These rates are within standard industry expectations and are designed to balance performance with water conservation.
Installation Considerations
Installation of the Artiqua freestanding tub filler requires careful planning to ensure proper placement and functionality. According to the documentation, the faucet should be positioned 3 to 6 inches above the rim of the bathtub. This clearance helps prevent water splashing and facilitates smooth water flow into the tub. Additionally, the faucet should be mounted at least 4 to 6 inches away from the tub to allow space for water to fall naturally into the tub without splashing.
The base of the Artiqua model must be secured to the floor for stability. This typically involves bolting the base to the floor using a tripod mount. For concrete floors, this is straightforward. However, for wooden floors, locating a structural beam is necessary to provide adequate support. Once the beam is identified, the tripod can be mounted and secured using nuts.
Water supply lines for hot and cold water need to be connected to the faucet during installation. These connections are typically hidden beneath a decorative base or cover. It is important to ensure that the plumbing lines align with the faucet’s placement, which may require adjustments to existing plumbing. Users who are not confident in their DIY skills may benefit from hiring a licensed plumber to perform the installation, particularly if repositioning or modifying the existing plumbing is necessary.
User Feedback and Common Issues
User feedback on the Artiqua freestanding tub filler is generally positive, with praise for the ease of use and the long levers that allow for independent control of the tub and shower. The 42-inch spout height is also noted as suitable for deep tubs, accommodating a wide range of bathtub designs.
However, some users have reported that the base of the Artiqua model may lack stability in certain installations. This issue may be attributed to improper mounting or insufficient floor reinforcement. To address this, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for base installation and to ensure that the mounting hardware is properly secured to the floor structure.
There are also no reports of issues related to the ceramic cartridge or aerator, which are responsible for smooth water flow and pressure regulation. This indicates that the internal components are functioning as intended, contributing to the overall reliability of the model.
Comparison with Other Freestanding Tub Fillers
The Artiqua model is often compared to other freestanding tub fillers in terms of performance, design, and price. For example, the LLGG freestanding tub faucet offers a higher flow rate of 11.9 GPM for the tub spout, making it a better option for those who prioritize rapid filling. However, the LLGG model has received some reports of leaks, which may be related to installation rather than the product itself.
In contrast, the Kingston Brass freestanding tub faucet provides a 9-inch spout reach, making it ideal for tubs with sloping sides. This model also offers an eco-friendly 1.8-GPM shower head, which is more water-efficient than the Artiqua model. However, the Kingston Brass model is more complex to install due to its two-hole configuration and the need for stop valves.
The Wowkk Waterfall tub filler is another competitor, offering a modern design with a 360-degree swivel spout and a range of finishes. While it is praised for its aesthetic appeal, some users have reported issues with water line leaks. The Artiqua model, on the other hand, does not appear to have widespread issues related to water leakage.
Key Features and Specifications
The Artiqua freestanding tub filler includes several key features that contribute to its functionality and user experience. These include:
- Independent Controls: The faucet and shower head are controlled separately, eliminating the need for a diverter valve. This design makes it easier to manage water flow and reduces the risk of water being sprayed onto the bathroom floor.
- Long Levers: The extended levers provide easy operation, particularly for users with limited hand strength or dexterity.
- High Spout Height: At 42 inches from the floor, the spout height is suitable for deep soaking tubs, ensuring that water flows directly into the tub without splashing.
- Ceramic Cartridge: The ceramic cartridge ensures smooth operation and precise temperature control, contributing to the overall reliability of the faucet.
- High-Quality Aerator: The aerator helps regulate water flow and pressure, improving efficiency and reducing water waste.
- Multiple Finishes: The model is available in several finishes, including black, brushed gold, brushed nickel, chrome, and oil-rubbed bronze. This variety allows for customization to match different bathroom designs.
Installation Steps
The installation of the Artiqua freestanding tub filler involves several key steps to ensure proper functionality and stability. These include:
- Planning and Positioning: Determine the optimal placement of the faucet, ensuring that it is positioned 3 to 6 inches above the rim of the tub and 4 to 6 inches away from the tub to prevent splashing.
- Mounting the Base: Secure the tripod base to the floor using bolts. For concrete floors, this is straightforward. For wooden floors, locate a structural beam and secure the tripod to it.
- Connecting Water Supply Lines: Connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the faucet. These connections should be made beneath the decorative base or cover to keep the installation neat and secure.
- Securing the Faucet: Once the base is installed and the water lines are connected, the faucet can be mounted to the base. Ensure that all bolts are tightened securely to prevent movement or instability.
- Testing the Faucet: After installation, test the faucet to ensure that water flows properly and that there are no leaks. Adjust the position if necessary to ensure that water flows directly into the tub.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance of the Artiqua freestanding tub filler is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regular cleaning of the spout and aerator is recommended to prevent mineral buildup and clogging. This can be done using a mild detergent and a soft cloth or sponge.
The ceramic cartridge should also be inspected periodically for signs of wear or damage. If the faucet begins to leak or the water flow becomes inconsistent, the cartridge may need to be replaced. This is typically a straightforward process that can be completed with basic tools.
In addition, the base of the faucet should be checked for stability, particularly after installation or if the faucet is moved. If the base becomes loose, additional bolts or support may be needed to reinforce it.
Conclusion
The Artiqua freestanding tub filler is a well-designed plumbing fixture that offers a unique combination of independent controls, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. Its 42-inch spout height and long levers make it suitable for deep soaking tubs, while the ceramic cartridge and high-quality aerator contribute to smooth water flow and efficient operation.
Installation requires careful planning and attention to detail, particularly when securing the base and connecting the water supply lines. While the model is generally reliable, some users have reported issues with base stability, which can be addressed by following the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation.
Compared to other freestanding tub fillers, the Artiqua model offers a balanced approach to performance, design, and functionality. While it may not have the highest flow rate or the most advanced features, it provides a reliable and user-friendly solution for homeowners looking to enhance their bathroom experience.