This varies from unit to unit. Ritchie fountains range in capacity from 1.2 gallons up to 75 gallons. Ritchie quick refill valves negate the need for a larger trough. Having smaller amounts of water allows the water to turn over quickly and stay fresh. It is also more economical to heat fewer gallons of water. Our largest water capacity trough, the WaterMaster 96, holds 75 gallons and is designed for producers that have low water pressure and need the extra standing water available.

No. We hear this question from people that think a system like this (without a heat system) is an economical way to keep water from freezing. However, circulating water would require a pump running at all times to circulate water. Also, with no heat or warmer water being added, eventually even circulating water will freeze. Ritchie WaterMaster and CattleMaster can be constant-flowed in lieu of heat, with this water draining to waste, or to a reservoir or pond.

All Ritchie fountains use a valve and float system for automatic refill. This is the same principle as the toilet refill system in your house. The consumer supplies pressurized water to the unit.

Select poly units are readily available in green as you will find on our website. Ritchie also offers our Classic Equine by Ritchie Series which comes in granite. To learn more about the difference between the yellow and green Ritchie waterers, visit our Youtube video.

Most poly units are very easy to clean with the drain plugs located at the ends of the units. Simply push the drain plug in and, on most units, use the plug to plug the valve chamber outlet hole during cleaning. Thrifty King CT units are very well covered up and are a little more difficult to clean. Steel units must have the top cover removed to access the drain plug. An inexpensive toilet brush or similar brush can be used to swish the water around and remove dirt. Ask your local vet for animal safe cleaners should you choose to use one.