Ritchie OmniMaster 8 User manual

Installation Instructions for
OmniMaster 8
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 # 24210
www.ritchiefount.com October 11, 2017
@RitchieWaterers

OmniMaster 8 Fountain Installation Instructions
A. Location - Putting 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 one foot 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 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 a filter 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.
WARNING: ANY ELECTRICAL SERVICE MUST BE INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED BY A
QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN PER LOCAL CODES.
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
1
11 October, 2017

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. Anchoring Fountain – OmniMaster 8 fountains have mounting pockets molded into the base: Use
the pockets at each end when installing the unit flush against a wall. Use of Ritchie part #16555, stainless
steel anchor bolts (not included), is recommended. Once you have verified the positioning of the fountain,
drill, install, and tighten down anchor bolts. Use the large washers provided to hold unit down. Tighten
hold down anchors tight, but do not over tighten as this could damage the plastic feet. Use an all-weather
sealant under the outside edge when anchoring to concrete to keep air from leaking under fountain.
G. Preparing the bottom - Apply the provided foam weather stripping to the bottom of the unit, along
the outside edge of the fountain.
H. Hose Connection - Connect hose fitting to shut-off valve at top of concrete. Slip on barb fitting with
furnished clamps. Hose should not touch insulation or outside surface of fountain. Place the hose under
the fountain as you move the unit in place over the riser tube.
Ritchie Thermal Tube
Part #
Description
18158
1’ Top Section
16417
2’ Top Section
16612 4’ Top Section
16416
2’ Extension
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
2
11 October, 2017

3/4" Valve Cable
Heater Setup
I. Valve Assembly for OmniMaster 8 –
1. Install standpipe into hole in trough. Rubber washer
is to be on inside of trough. Tighten nut hand tight
to allow for adjustment after valve assembly is
installed.
2. Feed hose up through standpipe and attach to valve
bracket. The hose may be shortened if necessary.
Tighten the hose clamp securely to prevent leaks.
3. The lower front peg on valve bracket should be
inserted into hole on standpipe first. Compress valve
clip to snap in opposite hole on standpipe.
4. Remove pin from valve assembly.
5. Install float assembly on valve assembly using
previously removed pin.
6. Rotate standpipe in trough until center of float
aligns with center of trough. DO NOT allow float to
be too close to cover when installed as this may
hamper valve performance.
7. Tighten standpipe nut hand tight plus one-quarter
turn. Use no joint compound for this fitting.
J. 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 water tight, 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 too close to each other. Also, do not
wrap additional insulation around heater.
K. 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: 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.
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
3
11 October, 2017

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.
WIRING DIAGRAM 120V SINGLE PHASE
WIRING DIAGRAM 240V SINGLE PHASE
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
4
11 October, 2017

L. Fenwal Thermostat – The adjustable range is from 0o. F (-18oC) to 100oF (38oC).
Thermostat is not preset at factory. Fill the trough to proper water level. Check the water
temperature with a thermometer. The next morning, check the water temperature again. If the water
is warmer than desired, turn the thermostat down. If there is ice forming on the surface of the water,
turn the thermostat up. Only slight adjustments should be made to the thermostat at any time. A
1/16 turn on the thermostat will change the water temp. 7oF (4oC). 44oF (7o C) in the trough
represents the most economical operation. Counter clockwise raises the thermostat setting.
M. 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.
N. Drain Plug – Insert the pre-assembled drain plugs firmly into the drain holes from inside the trough
at each end. Wetting the plug can aid in installation.
O. Valve Frame and Cover – Before installing the
valve chamber frame, the weather seal must be
installed on the frame (right). The seal is installed by
removing the paper backing from the adhesive side
and then starting at the midpoint of the frame leg;
attach the seal to the frame. Work your way around
the frame with the seal as close to the inside edge as
possible and then up the other leg to the halfway
point. At this time cut any extra foam seal as needed
then repeat for other side.
The frame can then be attached to the casing and
trough using the T-bolts and nuts provided in parts
bag. The T-Bolts slide into the four T-shaped holes
(shown below) located near the center of each trough
railing. Twisting the base of the T-bolt, once inserted,
helps the bolt sit upright while installing the frame. A
washer should be used on the head of the screw as
well as under the nut. Tighten securely.
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
5
11 October, 2017

P. Float Adjustment – Open water-supply shut-off valve, check for and fix any leaks. Adjust float for a
water depth of 2 inches below top of trough by adjusting the thumbscrew.
Q. 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. After valve is checked to
make sure it is functioning properly and the water level is set to the proper height, you may close and lock
down the lid.
R. 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.
S. Cleaning Your Fountain – To clean your watering fountain you will need a good stiff bristled brush.
Open the hinged cover and brush the inside of the valve chamber to remove any build-up then brush the
rest of fountain. Remove drain plugs 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 plugs and let the tank refill. Now is a good time to readjust the float if needed.
Reinstall 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. Differences in the
size of trough also impacts valve choice. Although different pressure rated valves may be used in a
fountain, each fountain will only accommodate one size and configuration of valve. 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 green ¾” valve is standard on the OmniMaster 8.
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.
3/4”
Part #
GPM
Pressure Range
White
16697
33
Low, 5-40 psi (34-275 kPa)
Red
11101
20
Moderate, 40-60 psi (275-414 kPa)
Green
15377
16.5
High, 60-80 psi (414-552 kPa)
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
6
11 October, 2017

Trouble Shooting
Problem Solution
Water in Trough Too
Warm Adjust thermostat to lower temperature
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
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
Valve Rubber
3/4”
Valve:
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
7
11 October, 2017

OmniMaster 8
Part # 18860
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
1 18851 OM 8 Casing 1 16 16993 Green Valve & Float pkg 1 pkg
2 18871 OM 8 Cover 1 17 11419 Heater 120V 250W (1/pkg) 4 pkg
3 18868 OM 8 Frame 1 18 16534 Fenwal Thermostat SS pkg 1 pkg
4 18872 OM 8 Trough Complete 1 18320 O-Ring Fenwal (6/pkg) 1 pkg
516562 Access Panel 10" x 20" 1 18074 Nut Brass Fenwal (6/pkg) 1 pkg
6 18147 Access Panel Hardware Pkg 1 19 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 2 pkg
7 18653 Ritchie Decal 12" (1/pkg) 1 pkg 20 18853 Drain Plug Ritchie 3" Short 2
8 18452 Bolt 3/8" x 3" SS (2/pkg) 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 10' Roll 3
9 18854 OM 8 Frame Screws 1 pkg NS 15931 Hose Clamp 1" SS (5/pkg) 1 pkg
10 18448 T-Bolt w/Wingnut 3/8" pkg 1 pkg NS 18614 Adapter 3/4" x 5/8" HB 1 pkg
11 18451 Wing Nut 3/8" Nylon (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18863 OM 8 Accessory pkg 1 pkg
12 18181 CM Standpipe Pkg 1 pkg NS 13830 Cable Htr 120V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
13 11514 Valve Bracket 3/4" 1 pkg
14 15377 Green Male Valve 3/4" pkg 1 pkg 18861 OmniMaster 8 240V
15 18314 Float with Hardware pkg 1 pkg NS 11403 Heater 240V 300W (1/pkg) 3 pkg
18313 Hardware for Float pkg 1 pkg NS 16424 Cable Htr 240V 48W (1/pkg) 1 pkg
12
14
15
16
13
1
6
7
5
18
17
4
20
9
8
2
310
19
11
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
8
11 October, 2017

Ritchie Limited Warranty Effective September 2012
Ritchie Industries, Inc. warrants its products to be
free of defective materials and workmanship.
Defective part(s) will be repaired or replaced at the
option of Ritchie Industries.
This warranty
specifically excludes all labor and shipping charges.
This warranty does not apply to any appearance
items, to any product whose exterior has been
damaged or defaced, to any product that has been
improperly installed, to any product subjected to
misuse, abnormal service or handling, and to any
products altered or repaired with other than original
equipment or manufacturer’s parts.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and
you may also have other rights which vary from state
to state.
All warranty claims must be processed through
an Authorized Ritchie Dealer/ Distributor. Proof of
purchase is required. This warranty is not
transferable. The period of warranty begins at
original date of purchase as follows:
Poly Units
Base, top and ball closures:
10 year limited against manufacturing defect. 100% first
five years, then declining 20% per year for the remaining
five years.
Stainless Steel Units
Stainless trough and stainless valve chamber
frame:
Ten years against manufacturing defect or corrosion.
100% all ten years.
Casing and cover:
10 year limited against manufacturing defect. 100% first
year, then declining 10% per year for the remaining nine
years.
Component Parts
All component parts, such as floats, valves,
heating elements:
One year from the date of purchase against manufacturing
defect, 100%.
OmniMaster Series Instruction Manual
9
11 October, 2017