We bought the Vantory Shower Panel System for a bathroom remodel and installed it in a custom sized shower. We had a slight height issue, so we were looking for a panel that was feature-packed and not so tall. The Vantory seemed to fit the bill.
The product arrived decently packaged for an import and there was no damage. It took several weeks to get here (shipped directly from the factory in China), but we bought it well in advance of installation, so the lead time wasn't a problem.
In advance of the installation, however, we did need to know the rough-in plumbing requirements. Looking at the schematics online, we were able to determine the location of the hot and cold supply, but not without trepidation. We could only go by the schematics, as we could not locate an installation guide online. After unpacking the panel, we realized that we could have done the rough-in within a range of about 12 inches.... wish we had known that. Again, we had a slight height issue so the plumbing location was pretty important.
NOTE: Adding flexible hoses and nipples would allow you to rough-in the plumbing nearly anywhere along the entire panel's length.
When it came to the installation, we didn't have many problems. The supply hoses threaded right on to our 1/2" NPT male fittings. Everything else was either pre-plumbed or required just the application of teflon tape.
We did not like the two installation brackets that were supplied. They require that the panel be raised and then lowered into place. This would have made our panel about 1-1/2" lower then we liked. Our solution was to fashion our own stainless steel U-hook brackets mounted top and bottom (see photo #3).... you'll never see the top one (crown moulding will cover) and the bottom one can only be seen on your hands and knees.
After installing the panel, everything functioned well and showering is a great!
PROS:
1. Well constructed with no exposed sharp edges
2. Plumbing the panel was easy
3. The Vantory Shower Panel System is a joy to shower in
CONS:
1. Online instructions and improvements to schematics is recommended
2. For the price paid, braided stainless steel hoses should be standard at the factory
3. In our case, the installation brackets were an issue NOTE: There is no way to do a flush-to-ceiling installation with this panel as designed
4. The hand wand does not fit into the sliding bracket very well (see photo #2). It just rests on top with no firm interlock; you have to hold onto it when you engage it or the water flow will cause it to fail. We plan to add a chrome extension.
5. For the price paid, the shower wand should be of metal construction, not plastic.
| Manufacturer | JIETERUI |
|---|---|
| Part Number | S018 |
| Item Weight | 23.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 51.18 x 7.87 x 7.09 inches |
| Item model number | VS018 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | Multi-functional VS018 |
| Style | Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Nickel,Brass,Silver |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Pattern | Angle and arm length adjustable shower |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Installation Method | Wall Mounted |
| Flow Rate | 2 Gallons Per Minute |
| Laser Beam Color | Silver |
| Special Features | Two function-massage and spary |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
