This document serves as an installation and user guide for the Bristan Descent Tap Range, covering models DSC BAS C, DSC BF C, DSC BSM C, DSC 1HBF C, and DSC FSBSM C. It provides comprehensive information for safe and successful installation, operation, and maintenance of these taps.
Function Description
The Bristan Descent Tap Range consists of various tap types including basin mixers, bath fillers, bath shower mixers, and floor standing bath shower mixers. These products are designed to deliver hot and cold water for domestic use, with specific models catering to different installation requirements and aesthetic preferences. The taps are engineered to comply with BS EN 200 for combination taps used within systems designed to BS 6700, ensuring quality and safety standards are met.
The basin mixers and 1-hole bath fillers are single-lever taps designed for ease of use, allowing for precise control over water flow and temperature. The bath fillers and bath shower mixers are designed for bath installations, with the bath shower mixer offering the additional functionality of diverting water between the bath spout and a shower handset. The floor standing bath shower mixer provides a stylish and functional solution for freestanding baths, integrating both bath filling and showering capabilities into a single elegant unit.
A key feature of the bath shower mixer and floor standing bath shower mixer is the diverter mechanism. This allows users to easily switch between filling the bath and using the shower handset. For the bath shower mixer, pulling the diverter knob up and turning it activates the shower mode, while pushing it back down reverts to bath filling. The floor standing model operates similarly, with a pull-and-twist action for the diverter to switch to shower mode and a turn back to revert to bath filling.
The taps are designed to operate across a range of working pressures, making them suitable for various domestic water systems, including gravity-fed hot and cold systems (both equal and differential pressures), unvented systems, and instantaneous water heaters (combination boilers). For low-pressure tank-fed systems, the guide provides information on the minimum distance required from the underside of the cold water tank to the outlet to ensure optimal performance.
Usage Features
The Bristan Descent taps are designed for intuitive and straightforward operation. For basin mixers and 1-hole bath fillers, a single lever controls both water flow and temperature, allowing users to easily adjust to their desired settings. The smooth operation of the lever ensures a comfortable user experience.
For bath fillers, the taps provide a consistent flow of water for filling baths. The bath shower mixers offer the added convenience of a shower handset, which can be engaged by operating the diverter knob. This allows for versatile use, whether for a quick rinse or a full bath. The shower handset is connected via a flexible hose, providing reach and flexibility during use.
The floor standing bath shower mixer combines elegance with functionality, providing a complete solution for freestanding baths. Its design allows for both bath filling and showering from a single unit, enhancing the bathing experience. The diverter mechanism is easily accessible and simple to operate, ensuring a seamless transition between bath and shower modes.
The clicker waste system, included with basin mixers, offers a simple push-button operation to open and close the basin drain. Pressing the button down fills the basin, and pressing it again releases the water. This user-friendly design enhances convenience in daily use.
The taps are designed to be installed in compliance with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and current by-laws, ensuring safe and regulated operation within domestic water systems. Approved check valves are recommended for unbalanced supplies (e.g., hot water from a cylinder tank and cold from the mains) to maintain system integrity.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the Bristan Descent Tap Range involves simple cleaning routines and occasional cartridge/valve maintenance to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
General Cleaning:
Bristan products are crafted from premium materials with hand-polished and electroplated finishes. To maintain their appearance, regular cleaning with warm water and a mild pH-neutral liquid soap is recommended. After cleaning, the taps should be polished with a soft cloth. It is crucial to rinse off any residues from soap, toothpaste, shampoos, or shower gels immediately after use, as these can cause blemishes.
Users should avoid household bleaches and cleaners containing harsh chemicals, as these can damage the surface finish. Abrasive cloths, scouring pads, scrub sponges, steel wool, or similar materials should also be avoided. For surfaces like nickel and pewter, it's important to prevent contact with dyes found in some cloths, so hanging cloths on spouts should be avoided.
Cartridge/Valve Cleaning:
For internal maintenance, such as cleaning the cartridge or valve, it is essential to first turn off both hot and cold water supplies or close any isolating valves.
To access the cartridge/valve:
- Remove the handle: Carefully prise out the handle cap. Loosen the grub screw using a 2.5mm hexagonal key and then remove the handle.
- Remove the spline adaptor: Once the handle is off, the spline adaptor can be removed.
- Remove the valve/cartridge: Using a suitable socket, unscrew and remove the valve (for traditional valves) or unscrew the shroud and cartridge retaining nut, then pull the cartridge out from the body (for ceramic disc cartridges).
Cleaning the Valve/Cartridge:
Wash the removed valve or cartridge thoroughly under clean running cold water. This helps to remove any build-up of limescale or debris that might affect performance.
Reassembly:
After cleaning, lightly grease the seal of the valve/cartridge (using only silicone grease). Replace the valve/cartridge into the tap body. For ceramic disc cartridges, tighten the retaining nut and shroud. Replace the spline adaptor and then the handle. Tighten the grub screw and push fit the cap.
Important Maintenance Notes:
- When tightening the valve/retaining nut, use the correct size spanner/socket and apply appropriate force/torque. It is crucial not to overtighten, as this can cause damage.
- Full access must be made available during installation for any future maintenance or servicing purposes.
- Before installing the product, the water supply must be thoroughly flushed to remove any swarf, solder, or debris, which could otherwise impact tap performance and longevity.
- Isolation valves should be fitted to the inlet water supplies to facilitate easy future maintenance.
By following these cleaning and maintenance guidelines, users can ensure their Bristan Descent taps remain in excellent condition and provide reliable service for many years.