The Allen Plus Roth 870X-504408 and 870X-507001 Dual Control Tub and Shower Faucet Set are designed for functionality, ease of use, and modern aesthetics in home bathroom installations. These models provide users with a dual-control system for bathtub and shower functions, allowing for seamless transitions between hot and cold water temperatures as well as between spout and shower flow.
This article presents a detailed yet precise overview of the installation and usage instructions as outlined in the official product manual. It leverages only verified details from the source material, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and compliance with the manufacturer-recommended practices. The guide covers preparation, assembly, safety measures, and troubleshooting, making it a go-to reference for U.S. consumers, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals who intend to install or maintain this fixture.
Understanding the Product Specifications
The Allen Plus Roth 870X-504408 and 870X-507001 Dual Control Tub and Shower Faucet Set are available in two finish options: Matte Black and Brushed Gold. This allows for customization based on user preference and bathroom decor.
The set includes the following components: - Shower Flange (A): Provides a secure connection between the wall and valve assembly. - Shower Arm (B): Connects the valve body to the showerhead and directs water flow to the shower. - Showerhead (C): A standard unit installed on the end of the shower arm. - Valve Body (D): Core component housing the internal mechanisms for water control. - Escutcheon (E): Decorative cover plate for the installation area. - Handle Assembly (F): Controls water flow and temperature. - Plug (G): Used when the tub outlet is not installed. - Plaster Guard (I) and Screws (J): Preassembled to help protect the valve body during installation. - Bonnet (K) and Cartridge (L): Already assembled to the valve body for water regulation and temperature control.
The product is supplied with all necessary components for a complete bathroom fixture, provided the existing plumbing infrastructure is compatible with the installation requirements.
Preparation Before Installation
Proper preparation is essential for a successful and safe installation of the Allen Roth Dual Control Tub and Shower Faucet Set. The following steps should be completed before beginning assembly.
Shutting Off Water Supply
The first and most critical step is to shut off the water supply to the bathroom. This may involve turning off the main water supply to the home or isolating a specific line that serves the bathroom’s plumbing system. Ensuring the water is off will prevent accidental exposure to water and reduce the risk of leaks or water damage.
A warning is explicitly provided in the manual: failure to follow correct installation procedures can result in the faucet being loose and, in extreme cases, may cause serious injury. Therefore, it is vital to understand the instructions in full before proceeding.
Verifying Wall Holes and Measurements
Before fixing the new faucet in place, measure the holes already present in the wall to determine compatibility with the product. The manufacturer has outlined the following recommended hole and wall depth specifications:
- Shower and Spout Outlet Holes: Must be 1-1/4 inches in diameter.
- Valve Access Hole: Needs to be approximately 6 inches in diameter.
- Valve Depth to Wall Surface: The finished wall should allow for at least 2-1/2 inches and no more than 3 inches of depth to accommodate the valve body and internal components.
- Minimum Distance from Valve to Tub Spout: An 8-inch gap is required between the valve body and tub spout for proper operation.
Users should verify that these dimensions are met and that the wall surface has an even and secure build to support the new installation.
Ensuring All Parts Are Present
After turning off the water and verifying wall measurements, inspect the product package to ensure all parts are included and undamaged. A complete list of parts appears in the documentation, with each component labeled by name and quantity.
If any part is missing or damaged, the manual advises not to proceed with assembly. In such cases, contact the manufacturer or a relevant point of sale for replacement parts before installation.
Estimated assembly time is 120 minutes, including the removal of the old faucet. This timeframe can vary depending on the experience and speed of the individual.
Tools and Safety Equipment for Installation
The product manual lists both required and recommended tools to assist in successful installation.
Required Tools
- Adjustable Wrench: Used to tighten and loosen pipes and connections.
- Phillips Screwdriver: For securing screws associated with the valve body and fittings.
- Thread Sealant Tape: Applied to pipe threads to ensure watertight connections.
These tools are crucial for completing the installation correctly and should be obtained before beginning.
Recommended Tools
- Safety Goggles: Although not strictly required, they are recommended for eye protection during installation, particularly when using sealant tape or tightening connections with force.
Use of these recommended tools will help ensure a safe and damage-free setup.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Once preparations are complete and tools are ready, the installation can proceed as outlined below.
Step 1: Prepare the Installation Area
Begin by removing the plaster guard and screws (J) from the valve body (D). This allows access to the cross brace and other internal connections for mounting.
Next, place the valve body (D) into the wall cavity and fasten it to the cross brace using the mounting screws (1, not included). It is essential to ensure the “UP” mark on the valve body is positioned correctly, facing upward. Misalignment at this stage may compromise the functionality of the new system.
Also, verify that the surface of the valve body is flush with the exterior wall surface. The manufacturer recommends using the black template plate (E) to help align the escutcheon accurately with the finished wall.
Step 2: Install the Plaster Guard
Reinstall the plaster guard (I) over the valve body using the screws (J). This step is important not only for aesthetic alignment but also to protect the internal components during the finishing process of the wall.
During this installation, the “SHOWER” side of the plaster guard should face upward.
Step 3: Connect the Shower Arm and Tub Spout
The shower arm (B) must be connected to the wall piping. To do this:
- Thread sealant tape must be wrapped around the pipe threads in a clockwise direction to ensure a watertight connection.
- Insert the long end of the shower arm through the flange (A).
- Connect the shower arm to the pipe elbow inside the wall, using a wrench to tighten it securely, but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.
For the tub spout (H), connect it to the tub spout outlet pipe (1, not included): - Wrap thread sealant tape around the tub spout outlet pipe and connect it to the lower pipe elbow (2, not included). - Tighten the elbow and tub spout outlet pipe connections using an adjustable wrench.
To finalize the installation of the tub spout, adjust it so that it is flush with the wall surface and secure it with the provided Allen wrench, using 2.5mm hex size.
If the tub spout is not to be installed, the plug (G) should be threaded into the bottom outlet.
Step 4: Connect Supply Lines and Water Inlets
To connect the hot and cold water supply lines, shower pipe, and tub outlet pipe to the valve body:
- Wrap thread sealant tape around the pipe threads in a clockwise direction.
- Connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the valve body, and connect pipe elbows (4, not included) to both ends.
- Tighten the connections with a wrench for a secure and leak-free fit.
The manufacturer specifies that Figure 4a in the manual provides a visual guide for this step. For situations where the tub outlet is not used, Figure 4b details how to seal the plug (G) into the bottom outlet.
Step 5: Install the Escutcheon and Showerhead
To complete the surface-level installation:
- Position the escutcheon (E) on the installation plate, ensuring the drain hole is at the bottom.
- Install the showerhead (C) at the end of the shower arm (B) by twisting it clockwise.
- Ensure the showerhead is hand-tightened only, to prevent damage to the connections.
This step provides a polished and secure appearance to the installation.
Step 6: Install and Align the Handle Assembly
Before finalizing the handle installation, it is important to ensure the cartridge (L) inside the valve is fully closed and set to the cold position. Both stem sections should be rotated fully clockwise to achieve this.
Next, attach the handle assembly (F) to the valve body: - Use the plastic template tool provided to align the handle assembly properly. - Thread the handle assembly (F) in a clockwise direction onto the bonnet (K) of the valve body. - The handle should sit flush with the surface once installed.
This alignment ensures precise water temperature control during use.
Step 7: Final Checks and Leak Testing
With the installation near completion, perform the following checks:
- Remove the plastic cap (1) from the valve body (D) by twisting it clockwise.
- Turn the switch handle (2) down and attach the handle assembly (F), threading the base in a clockwise direction until secure.
- Turn the handle assembly (F) to the on position and check for leaks.
- Once leaks are cleared, shut off the water supply and remove the handle assembly (F) temporarily for final adjustments if necessary.
- Ensure the switch stem (1) and tempering stem (2) are both tightly screwed clockwise to their respective limit positions by hand.
This step helps ensure the internal components are correctly engaged before the system is put into regular use.
Addressing Missing or Damaged Parts
In the event that a part is missing or damaged, the manual provides a clear directive:
- Do not attempt to assemble the product.
- Contact customer service at 866-439-9800 (available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Sunday).
- Alternatively, email [email protected] for assistance in securing replacement components.
This ensures that users are not forced to work with incomplete or faulty parts, which could compromise the installation or functionality of the system.
Safety and Compliance Guidelines
The product manual emphasizes the importance of following installation instructions carefully and checking local building codes before beginning any installation work. Compliance with local regulations is not only a legal requirement but also ensures the product is installed in a manner that is safe and functional.
It also cautions that failure to follow installation procedures could result in a loose faucet, posing a risk of injury. Therefore, the manual reiterates that proper installation is the installer’s responsibility.
Conclusion
The Allen Plus Roth 870X-504408 and 870X-507001 Dual Control Tub and Shower Faucet Set is a premium, user-friendly product designed to enhance bathroom functionality. The comprehensive installation guide provided in the official manual ensures that even DIY users can achieve a professional result if the steps and safety measures are followed meticulously.
Through clear preparation, tool selection, precise assembly, and final testing, users can successfully install this dual-control system while minimizing the risk of leaks or performance issues.
When in doubt or in a situation where parts are missing or damaged, always reach out to the manufacturer for assistance before proceeding with assembly. This proactive approach will help guarantee a safe, efficient, and long-lasting installation.