Ritchie EcoFount Series User manual

Installation Instructions for
EcoFount Series
Congratulations, you have just purchased the finest watering fountain on the
market. This unit is built to give you excellent service when properly installed
and maintained. Please follow instructions carefully. Read and understand all
instructions before installing.
Ritchie Industries, Inc.
800-747-0222 Part # 17967
www.ritchiefount.com August 15, 2022
@RitchieWaterers

EcoFount Series
Installation Instructions
A. Location - Installing the fountain in a location that offers protection from the wind will enhance the
performance of the fountain. Livestock will tend to gather in this protected area, enticing them to drink more. Access
panel should be opposite of prevailing winter wind to give additional protection to the supply line.
B. Water Supply Line - Horizontal underground water line should be sized to account for pressure drop, relating
to distance, and placed well below frost line. A one-inch vertical supply pipe is recommended. A shut-off valve
should be installed under fountain to allow for easier servicing. For optimum serviceability, a stop and waste valve
can be installed below frost level to drain water back when unit is not in use. Vertical supply line must be centered
in riser tube to provide an air space between the line and frozen ground outside of tube. Flush water supply line
thoroughly before connection to fountain. Water supplies with foreign material such as sand, rust, etc. may require
afilter to keep fountain valve working properly.
C. Electric Supply – It is generally most cost effective to run your electrical supply line at the same time you are
trenching for your water supply.
Item
No.
Description
Watts
Amps
Item
No.
Description
Watts
Amps
18430
EcoFount 1 120V
173W
1.4A@120V
18431
EcoFount 1 240V
248W
1A@240V
18440
EcoFount 2 120V
298W
2.5A@120V
18441
EcoFount 2 240V
448W
1.9A@240V
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D. Riser Tube - Install a riser tube and extend it at least one foot below frost line or
down to horizontal underground water line. For optimum water line protection, use
the 12” diameter insulated Ritchie Thermal Tube, part numbers and sizes are shown
to the right. Tube opening must be kept clear.
NOTE: The supply line touching the riser tube is the most common cause of
the supply line freezing. Do not surround the supply line with insulation, wood,
or other foreign material. Any foreign material in the tube may cause frost to
migrate to the supply line causing it to freeze.
E. Mounting Platform - A concrete platform must be provided for all fountains. Use a minimum of 4” thick, (6”
recommended thickness), large enough to accommodate fountain, and additional 4” step (on top of the platform)
extending 18” out from each side of the unit. This will protect the unit from manure handling equipment, as well as
discouraging animals from defecating in the fountain. Extending the platform provides animals a place to stand
while drinking, consider the size of your animals when determining the dimensions of your platform. The concrete
step and platform should slope away from the fountain for drainage. A rough broom finish to concrete surface
provides better footing for livestock.
F. Preparing the Bottom - Apply the provided foam weather stripping to the bottom of the unit, around the
outside edge of the fountain.
G. Hold-Downs – EcoFount Fountains have mounting locations molded into the base inside the unit. Use of
Ritchie stainless steel anchor bolts (not included) is recommended for concrete installations. Anchor bolts are
available from Ritchie in packages of two, part #16555. The trough may be removed to allow easier access to the
bolt down location.
H. Hose Connection – Remove access panel. Do not remove access panel bolt, removing bolt will allow retainer
to fall off back. Loosen bolt until latch can be moved to allow panel to be removed. With panel removed cut hose
to proper length and connect to shut off valve. Adapter is provided to make connection to shut-off valve.
Ritchie Thermal Tube
Part #
Description
18158
1’ Top Section
16417 2’ Top Section
16612
4’ Top Section
16416
2’ Extension
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I. Cable Heater – Uncoil cable heater and loop around the
valve. Attach the remaining part of the cable heater to the
water supply, as far down the riser tube as possible with the
cable twist ties provided. This heater is watertight but should
not be immersed in water. Heater may cross over itself but
should not be tightened at those locations.
CAUTION: Installation must not cause any strain on
heater wiring connections. Avoid heater damage
caused by hot spots due to its leads lying close to
each other. Also, do not wrap additional insulation
around heater.
J. Electrical Connection - The electrical installation should be made and maintained by a qualified electrician
conforming to national and local codes. A means for disconnection must be incorporated in the fixed wiring in
accordance with the wiring rules. For wiring connections, see wiring diagram. Make connections according to the
wiring diagram below.
WARNING: ANY ELECTRICAL SERVICE MUST BE INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED BY A
QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN.
WARNING: DISCONNECT POWER IF THE WATER SUPPLY IS TO BE SHUT OFF FOR AN
EXTENDED AMOUNT OF TIME. FAILURE TO TURN OFF POWER CAN RESULT IN DAMAGE TO
THE WATERING FOUNTAIN.
WARNING: THIS INSTALLATION MUST BE MADE AND MAINTAINED IN STRICT CONFORMITY
WITH NATIONAL/LOCAL PLUMBING CODES AND NATIONAL/LOCAL ELECTRICAL CODES (CSA
IN CANADA). THE APPLICABLE PROVISIONS OF THESE CODES TAKE PRECEDENT. FAILURE
TO MAKE AND MAINTAIN ALL INSTALLATIONS PROPERLY MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF
LIVESTOCK, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.
NOTE: National/Local electrical codes may require livestock waterers installed in feedlots in open feeding
area to be grounded by a separate stranded copper grounding conductor or at least no.6 AWG
terminating at a point where the branch circuit receives its supply.
Check with local authorities.
K. Disc Thermostat – The disc thermostat is mounted in a bracket under the
trough, which allows it to be moved relative to the heater. To ease movement
of thermostat, turn ¼ turn. To lock in position after adjustment turn ¼ turn
back. As the thermostat is moved toward the heater, the water
temperature in the trough is lowered. The best location is determined
by checking the trough temperature several times during the heating season.
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L. Float Adjustment – To access the float in the EcoFount the lid will need to be unlocked and then hinged open.
Be sure to not lean on lid while it is open as this can damage the watering fountain. Insert the drain plug firmly into
the drain hole in the trough. Open water-supply shut-off valve, check for and fix any leaks. Adjust float for a water
depth of 1 to 2 inches below the top of the overflow pipe by adjusting the wingnut on the float arm.
M. Install Side Access Panel and Close Lid– Once all water line connections have been checked for leaks and
electrical hook-up is complete, the side access door may be installed. With the valve functioning properly and the
water level set at the proper level, you may close and lock down the lid.
N. Seal the Base - After the unit is completely installed, apply a bead of caulking around the base of the fountain
to ensure no wind enters through the base of the unit.
NOTE: Sealing the bottom of the unit from cold air is an important aspect of the unit's thermal
performance.
O. Children Should Be Supervised to Ensure That They Do Not Play with The Appliance – This appliance is
not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack
of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instructions concerning use of the
appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
P. Cleaning Your Fountain – To clean your watering fountain you will need a good stiff bristled brush. Open
the cover then brush the tank to remove any build-up. Remove the overflow plug that is located in the trough to
drain out the water and debris. You can shut off the water with the shut-off valve located under the unit or by
holding the float in the up position. After the water and debris has drained, reinstall the overflow plug and let the
tank refill. Now is a good time to readjust the float if needed. Close on lock down cover and you are done.
Ritchie Valves
Ritchie valves come in various sizes and pressure ratings as shown below - green for high supply line
pressure, red for moderate supply pressure, and white for low-pressure applications.Differencesin the size of trough
also impacts valve choice. Your individual situations may require a change from the standard valve supplied with
your fountain, see your Ritchie Dealer if this is needed.
NOTE: The red ½” valve is standard on the EcoFount 1, 2
1/2”
Part #
GPM
Pressure Range
White
12574
4.8
Low, 5-40 psi. (34-275 kPa)
Red
12575
3.4
Moderate, 40-60 psi. (275-414 kPa)
Green
13597
1.45
High, 60-80 psi. (414-552 kPa)
NOTE: Maximum inlet water pressure for each valve is shown above. If water pressure is extremely high,
and if the valve does not shut off, a pressure-reducing valve may be needed.
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Trouble Shooting
Problem
Solution
Water in Trough Too
Warm
Adjust thermostat to lower temperature (move closer to heater)
Check to see if thermostat has failed by contacts burning closed
Ice in Trough
Check fuses or circuit breakers
Check all heating elements to make sure they are working and hot
Adjust thermostat to higher temperature (move away from heater)
Check for voltage from thermostat output
Check voltage to fountain with and without electrical load
Check that heaters are wired properly
Valve Freezing
Check that cable heater is installed properly and fastened to water supply line and is
working when heaters are hot
Check for missing or damaged insulation
Check for air gaps for wind penetrations
Supply line Freezing
Check that the cable heater is uncoiled and fastened around valve, to supply line and
is working when heaters are hot
Check that supply piping is centered in riser tube
Check that riser tube is free of water and mud that may freeze
Check that flexible hose does not touch side of casing or frame
Check casing for air leaks
Check for air gaps between casing and concrete floor
Valve won’t stop dripping
Check float adjustment. Check for waterlogged float, or float rubbing on side of valve
compartment
Check for excessive system water pressure
Disassemble valve and check for sand or scale in valve rubber. Also check valve
orifice outlet for wear and damage. A screen or filter may be required with sandy or
scaly water
Turn valve rubber over and re-assemble
Low water flow
Check that valve inlet is not plugged or supply hose is not kinked
Check system pressure from supply hose by installing a tee and a pressure gauge
directly in front of the valve to check pressure drop when valve is open. A severe
pressure drop indicates a restriction or undersized supply system.
Check that shutoff valves are fully open
1/2” Valve:
Pin must be pushed
out of valve to disassemble
Valve Rubber
Thread Sealant Required
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8/16/2021
Wiring-2021.dwg
TDU - Sheet: 1 of 1
WHITE
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLUE
BLUE
BLUE
BLUE
WHITE
BLACK
WHITE
WHITE
BLACK
BLACK
GREEN
RED
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLUE
BLUE
BLUE
BLACK
BLUE
BLACK
RED
RED
BLACK
RED
GREEN
CABLE
HEATER
120V
TROUGH HEATER
120V
THERMOSTAT
FENWAL OR DISC
GREEN
GREEN GROUND
WHITE NEUTRAL
BLACK HOT
COMMERCIAL
POWER
WIRING DIAGRAM FOR HEATED UNITS
NOTE: Power cord may be supplied on select units to simplify
installation. Use of a moisture resistant, exterior grade outlet is
recommended in these units. Do not use extension cords.
CABLE
HEATER
240V
TROUGH HEATER
240V
THERMOSTAT
FENWAL OR DISC
WARNING - CHECK NAMEPLATE FOR CORRECT
VOLTAGE. ONLY CONNECT 120VAC TO 120V UNITS.
WIRING DIAGRAM SHOWN WITH 2
HEATERS - QUANTITY MAY VARY
GREEN GROUND
RED - L2
BLACK - L1
COMMERCIAL
POWER
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
BLACK
L1
L2
120V UNITS - SINGLE PHASE
(3) WIRE CONNECTORS FIELD SUPPLIED
240V UNITS - SINGLE PHASE
(3) WIRE CONNECTORS FIELD SUPPLIED
WARNING - CHECK NAMEPLATE FOR CORRECT
VOLTAGE. ONLY CONNECT 230-240VAC TO 240V UNITS.
WIRING DIAGRAM SHOWN WITH 2
HEATERS - QUANTITY MAY VARY
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EcoFount 2
Part # 18440
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
1 18444 EcoFount 2 Top 1 16 15154 Screws Valve Bracket (10/ pkg) 1 pkg
2 18446 EcoFount 2 Casing 1 17 12575 Red Valve 1/2" pkg 1 pkg
3 18438 EcoFount 2 Trough 1 pkg 18 13613 Float with Short Arm pkg 1 pkg
4 18447 EcoFount Drinkwell W/ Ring pkg 2 pkgs 19 17963 Retaining Ring SS 2
516562 Access Panel 10" x 20" 1 20 14412 Thermal Cap 2
6 18147 Access Panel Hardware pkg 1 pkg 21 18653 Ritchie Decal 12" (1/pkg) 1 pkg
7 11885 Disc Thermostat pkg 1 pkg NS 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 1 pkg
8 18451 Wing Nut 3/8" Nylon (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 13830 Cable Htr 120V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
9 18448 T-Bolt w/Wingnut 3/8" pkg (2/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18429 EcoFount Accessory pkg 1 pkg
10 18452 Bolt 3/8"x3" SS (2/pkg) 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 1/2"x3/4"x10' Roll 1
11 14150 Heater 120V 125W (1/pkg) 2 pkgs
12 18075 Drain Washer (6/pkg) 1 pkg 18441 EcoFount 2 240V
13 18790 Drain Pipe with Elbow 1 NS 16664 Heater 240V 200W (1/pkg) 2 pkgs
14 14647 Drain Plug Overflow 1 NS 16424 Cable Htr 240V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
15 11515 Valve Bracket w/screws pkg 1 pkg
4
1
10
19
20
3
8
9
711
12
13
14
2
5
6
21
16
18
17
15
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EcoFount 1
Part # 18430
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
1 18434 EcoFount 1 Top 1 16 15154 Screws Valve Bracket (10/ pkg) 1 pkg
2 18436 EcoFount 1 Casing 1 17 12575 Red Valve 1/2" pkg 1 pkg
3 18437 EcoFount 1 Trough 1 pkg 18 13613 Float with Short Arm pkg 1 pkg
4 18447 EcoFount Drinkwell W/ Ring pkg 1 pkg 19 17963 Retaining Ring SS 1
518370 Access Panel 10" x 10" 1 20 14412 Thermal Cap 1
6 18147 Access Panel Hardware pkg 1 pkg 21 18655 Ritchie Decal 7.5" (1/pkg) 1 pkg
7 11885 Disc Thermostat pkg 1 pkg NS 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 1 pkg
8 18451 Wing Nut 3/8" Nylon (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 13830 Cable Htr 120V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
9 18448 T-Bolt w/ Wingnut 3/8" (2/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18429 EcoFount Accessory pkg 1 pkg
10 18452 Bolt 3/8"x3" SS (2/pkg) 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 1/2"x3/4"x10' Roll 1
11 14150 Heater 120V 125W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
12 18075 Drain Washer (6/pkg) 1 pkg 18431 EcoFount 1 240V
13 18790 Drain Pipe with Elbow 1 NS 16664 Heater 240V 200W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
14 14647 Drain Plug Overflow 1 NS 16424 Cable Htr 240V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
15 11515 Valve Bracket w/screws pkg 1 pkg
1
4
14
10
20
19
3
12
13
2
8
9
7
11
5
6
21
18
16
15
17
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RITCHIE INDUSTRIES, INC.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Ritchie Industries, Inc., hereinafter referred to as Ritchie Industries, gives a LIMITED WARRANTY
for the period of time(s) stated herein, subject to certain limitations, on your new watering system
against defects in material or workmanship when properly installed, set up, operated, and maintained
in accordance with the instructions and recommendations set forth by Ritchie Industries, including in
the Installation Instructions. The warranty excludes labor and shipping charges.
The warranty is transferable to the next purchaser of the watering system prior to expiration of the
warranty period, but any such transfer will not extend the original warranty term. Proof of purchase must be submitted with
any warranty claim, and all warranty claims shall be processed through an Authorized Ritchie Dealer or Distributor.
Ritchie Industries’ liability for any defects in material or workmanship with respect to accepted goods shall be limited to
repairing the goods or replacing them as Ritchie Industries shall elect. Parts used in warranty repairs will be warranted for the
balance of the water system’s warranty period, with all parts replaced under warranty becoming the property of Ritchie
Industries.
The limited warranty periods begin upon delivery ofthe watering system to the original purchaser. Upon delivery of the goods,
purchaser assumes all liability, including but not limited for all personal injury and property damage, resulting from the
handling, possession, or use of the goods.
WARRANTY COVERAGE AND LIMITATIONS
Limitations of Warranties and Remedies
Ritchie Industries’ watering systems are designed and manufactured to provide years of reliable use when installed and operated
consistent with Ritchie Industries’ instructions and recommendations. However, the potential for improper installation,
modifications and misuse of the goods exists. Therefore, the limited warranty provided shall be as follows:
This limited warranty shall not apply to any appearance items and shall not apply to any product which has been subject to
misuse, abuse, abnormal service or handling, negligence, or accident, nor to any product that is installed and/or used contrary
to Ritchie Industries’ installation instructions and instructions for use. The limited warranty shall also not apply to any product
whose exterior has been damaged or otherwise defaced, that has been repaired, altered, or modified by anyone, other than
Ritchie Industries, in a way so as in Ritchie Industries’ judgment it adversely affects the product’s operation, performance,
durability, or intended use, nor to any product where removal of parts, modification(s) or use of parts or accessories not
manufactured or approved by Ritchie Industries has caused damage.
Coverage and Warranty Periods
Unit Type Coverage and Warranty Period
Poly Units Base, top, and ball closures. Ten-year limited warranty: 100% for first five years,
then declining 20% per year for remainder of the 10-year period.
Stainless Steel Units Stainless trough and stainless valve chamber frame. Ten-year limited warranty,
plus ten years of corrosion coverage, at 100% for entire 10-year period.
Component Parts One-year limited warranty on all component parts, such as floats, valves, and
heating elements.
Exclusions of Liability
EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY STATED HEREIN, RITCHIE INDUSTRIES MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION OF
ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE ARE EXCLUDED FROM THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. TO THE EXTENT THEY CANNOT BE DISCLAIMED, THE IMPLIED
WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE LIFE OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY EXCLUDES
INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, AND SPECIAL DAMAGES. THIS EXCLUSION OF CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, AND SPECIAL
DAMAGES IS INDEPENDENT FROM AND SHALL SURVIVE ANY FINDING THAT THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FAILED OF ITS
ESSENTIAL PURPOSE. THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY ARE THE ONLY REMEDIES AVAILABLE TO ANY
PERSON UNDER THIS WARRANTY. SOME STATES/PROVINCES DO NOT ALLOW FOR THE DISCLAIMERS, LIMITATIONS, AND
EXCLUSIONS IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND, AS A RESULT, THEY MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
No agent, employee or representative of Ritchie Industries, and no Ritchie Industries Dealer/Distributor, is authorized to bind Ritchie Industries to any
representation or warranty regarding the goods except as specifically included in this limited warranty.
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Part #17967
August 15, 2022