WATERMATIC 100 User manual

WaterMatic 100, 150, 150S 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. If possible, the side
that supply line enters the fountain 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. 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. The riser tube must NOT extend
above the concrete platform. See drawing.
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.
Ritchie Thermal Tube
Part # Description
18158
1’ Top Section
16417
2’ Top Section
16612
4’ Top Section
16416
2’ Extension
Top view of
WaterMatic 100 shown
with Riser Tube
underneath
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
1
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

D. Electrical Connection (Optional) – In many areas, supplemental heat is required, it is easiest to run the
electrical line at the same time you lay the waterline for your fountain. Electrical connections should be installed
under the unit.
WARNING: ANY ELECTRICAL SERVICE MUST BE INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED BY A
QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN IN COMPLIANCE WITH LOCAL CODES.
E. Mounting Platform – A concrete platform should be provided for all fountains. It should be at least 4” thick
and large enough to accommodate fountain. An additional 4” high step 18” out from each side of the unit 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. Slope the platform away from the fountain for drainage. A rough
broom finish on the concrete surface provides better footing for animals.
F. Preparing the Bottom - Apply the foam weather stripping to the bottom of the unit, along the outside edge of
the fountain.
G. Hold-Downs - WaterMatic Fountains have mounting pockets molded into the base. Use of Ritchie stainless
steel anchor bolts (not included) is recommended for concrete installations. Anchor bolts are available from any
Ritchie authorized dealer, in packages of two, part # 16555. 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.
H. Final Water Connection – Connect the top of the supplied hose to the valve, cut hose to proper length and
slip onto the barb fitting of the valve assembly. Clamps and fittings are furnished to secure the connection.
I. 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.
J. Drain Plug –Install pre-assembled drain plugs from inside of trough. Plugs should be pushed in flush to
prevent accidental removal by animals. Wetting the plug can aid proper installation. Tighten the wing nut to secure
plug.
K. Float Adjustment – Turn on water supply, check for and correct any leaks. Adjust float for a water depth of
one-two inches below top of trough by adjusting the wingnut.
L. Access Covers –Reinstall all access panels in the base. Do not over tighten bolt.
M. Water Seal Drain –Install the small drain plug into the drain hole in the water seal trough around the valve
chamber seal. This plug may be removed during non-freezing periods to allow water seal to drain.
N. Install Cover - Fill the water seal groove with liquid to seal against air infiltration before assembling. Drop in
the valve chamber cover. Note: Serial number or date code is found on underneath side of top red valve cover.
Tip: You may use vegetable oil to fill the water seal groove or coat the inside of the groove with baking
pan coating spray before filling with water to make the cover easier to remove and reinstall during freezing
weather. For areas with high evaporation, using vegetable oil may be necessary.
O. Cleaning Your Fountain – To clean your watering fountain you will need a good stiff bristled brush. Remove
the cover then brush the water seal groove to remove any build-up then brush the tank. Remove the drain plug that
is located at the end of the trough to drain out the water and debris. You can shut off the water with the shut-off
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
2
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

valve located under the unit or by holding the float in the up position. After the water and debris has drained reinstall
the plug and let the tank refill. Now is a good time to readjust the float if needed. Reinstall cover and you are done.
Installation Variations
Incoming water temperature and pressure will vary and will affect the performance of your fountain. Well water
will be between 45oand 50o, but rural water from a water tower may be substantially cooler. Supplemental heaters
and alternate valves are available for these variations.
Supplemental Heat
Both the valve chamber and the water supply line should be protected from freezing. To protect the valve chamber,
immersion heaters should be placed flat on the bottom of the chamber. Ensure the heater and power cable does not
interfere with the motion of the float. Self-regulating heat cables protect the supply line from freezing. Heat cables
should wrap around the valve and follow the supply line down into the riser tube. You may use nylon ties to anchor
the cable to the supply line. Both immersion heaters and supply line heaters are thermostatically controlled, using
power only when needed. Neither heater will get hot enough to melt the plastic of the fountain.
The higher power heaters should be used for larger troughs or where there may be electrical losses in the line due
to long transmission distances. A stainless-steel heater stand is included and should be used with the Ritchie 500W
heater to protect the fountain in the event of water supply failure. The stand may be purchased separately to be used
with any immersion heater, #16636.
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 forlow-pressure applications. Differences in 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 WaterMatic 100, 150, 150S.
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.
Immersion Heaters
Self-Regulating Heat Cable
Part #
Volts
Watts
Part #
Volts
Watts
16311
120
250
16276
120
30
17960
240
250
16713
240
30
14158 120 500
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
3
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

Trouble Shooting
Problem Solution
Water Freezing in the
Valve or Supply Line
Make sure the fountain is sealed from wind between the concrete platform and bottom of unit.
Make sure water seal groove is filled with liquid.
Make sure supply line is properly installed:
♦Riser tube with supply line centered, and air space between riser tube and
supply line. Ritchie Thermal Tubes are recommended as they have
optimum inside and outside diameter to maximize insulation.
♦
Horizontal supply line is at least 1 foot below frost line.
If freezing continues, use supplemental heat or constant flow below freezing
temperatures.
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 pressure gauge 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 shut off valves are fully open.
Valve won't stop dripping
Check float adjustment. Ensure float moves freely.
Take valve apart and check for sand or scale in valve rubber.
Turn valve rubber over and re-assemble.
Check for excessive water system pressure and install pressure reducing valve.
1/2" Valve:
Valve Rubber
Pin must be pushed
out of valve to disassemble
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
4
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

WaterMatic 100
Part # 18165
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
118167 WaterMatic 100/150 Cover 1 9 13613 Float with Short Arm pkg 1 pkg
218168 WaterMatic 100 Base 1 10 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 1 pkg
3 18470 Drain Plug Ritchie 3" 1 pkg 11 18653 Ritchie Label 12" (1/pkg) 1 pkg
416621 Access Panel 6"x14" 1 12 18633 Plug #3 - Water Channel (2/pkg) 1 pkg
5 18147 Access Panel Hardware pkg 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 10' Roll 1
6 11515 Valve Bracket w/ screw pkg 1 pkg NS 15931 Hose Clamp SS (5/pkg) 1 pkg
7 18709 Screw Valve Mount (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18613 Adapter 1/2" x 3/8" HB 1 pkg
8 12575 Red Valve 1/2" pkg 1 pkg NS 18174 WMatic 100 Accessory pkg 1 pkg
5
3
10
4
2
1
11
12
8
6
9
7
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
5
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

WaterMatic 150
Part # 18166
5
10
3
3
2
1
4
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
118167 WaterMatic 100/150 Cover 1 9 13613 Float with Short Arm pkg 1 pkg
218169 WaterMatic 150 Base 1 10 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 1 pkg
3 18470 Drain Plug Ritchie 3" 2 pkgs 11 18653 Ritchie Label 12" (1/pkg) 1 pkg
416621 Access Panel 6"x14" 1 12 18633 Plug #3 - Water Channel (2/pkg) 1 pkg
5 18147 Access Panel Hardware pkg 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 10' Roll 1
6 11515 Valve Bracket w/ screw pkg 1 pkg NS 15931 Hose Clamp SS (5/pkg) 1 pkg
7 18709 Screw Valve Mount (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18613 Adapter 1/2" x 3/8" HB 1 pkg
8 12575 Red Valve 1/2" pkg 1 pkg NS 18187 WMatic 150/150S Accessory pkg 1 pkg
11
12
6
8
7
9
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
6
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

WaterMatic 150S
Part # 18222
Item Part # Description Qty . . Item Part # Description Qty
118223 WaterMatic 150S Cover 1 9 13613 Float with Short Arm pkg 1 pkg
218224 WaterMatic 150S Base 1 10 18318 Bolt Down Washer (4/pkg) 1 pkg
3 18470 Drain Plug Ritchie 3" 2 pkgs 11 18653 Ritchie Label 12" (1/pkg) 1 pkg
416621 Access Panel 6"x14" 1 12 18633 Plug #3 - Water Channel (2/pkg) 1 pkg
5 18147 Access Panel Hardware pkg 1 pkg NS 14866 Seal Foam 10' Roll 2
6 11515 Valve Bracket w/ screw pkg 1 pkg NS 15931 Hose Clamp SS (5/pkg) 1 pkg
7 18709 Screw Valve Mount (4/pkg) 1 pkg NS 18613 Adapter 1/2" x 3/8" HB 1 pkg
8 12575 Red Valve 1/2" pkg 1 pkg NS 18187 WMatic 150/150S Accessory pkg 1 pkg
5
1
4
10
3
3
2
11
12
8
6
9
7
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
7
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

This page intentionally left blank
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
8
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

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 of the 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 aredesigned 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.
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
9
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022

Installation Instructions for
WaterMatic 100/150/150S
Fountains
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
www.ritchiefount.com
@RitchieWaterers
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
10
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022
This manual suits for next models
2
Table of contents