Why does my valve drip?

This can be one of several problems. In new installations, if the waterline was not flushed significantly prior to attaching the valve, a piece of debris may have become lodged in the valve not allowing it to seal.  In older installations, over time, the neoprene valve rubber disk on the valve plunger can build up with mineral deposits. These deposits will not let the plunger make a tight seal. Turning the valve rubber (part number 15151 or the 1/2″ valve, watch video, and part number 15152 for the 3/4″ valve, watch video) over or installing a new valve rubber will solve this problem. A sinking float or a loose or stripped wing nut or thumbscrew can also cause a unit to overflow. This problem can be fixed with new components. When none of the above apply, it is usually a case of too much water pressure that won’t let the valve shut off. When pressure is a problem, the unit should be fitted with a valve designed for higher pressures. If a high-pressure valve does not solve the problem, a pressure regulator must be installed in the line ahead of the valve. Another situation that can cause this is water hammer. The surge from a water hammer situation can cause the valve to sputter for long periods of time creating the appearance that the valve shut off. This can also be solved with an inline pressure regulator.

 

Why does water gush out of the sides of my CT unit when the cows take a drink?

When this happens, the water level inside is set too high. When the ball closures are at the top of the drink well, there is still water capacity in the trough. When the water level inside is too high and the ball is pushed, water inside is displaced and must go somewhere. Consequently, it comes out through the water seal between the top and the base. This can also happen if the fountain is not installed on a level surface or if you have a leaky valve.  If your valve is leaking either replace the valve or the valve rubber.  Learn more about our valves here. 

I have a CD-50 and need to get some parts.

This is a statement that is often called in to us by people who are not familiar with Ritchie and/or have purchased a property with a fountain on it. When Ritchie installed a powder coating system in 1972, we named the finish CD-50. This was on a decal that was put on all steel powder coated casings. All steel units have a brass serial tag on the casing, which is located directly under the trough. The top line of the serial tag contains the model number and a four-digit serial number. The serial number is actually a date code telling the month and year that the unit was manufactured. If you are unsure of the model number, we can usually determine the model with a description of your waterer.  Ritchie waterers are built for longevity so in most cases, parts are readily available for older models that may be labeled with the CD-50 paint.