Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Series

Questions and Answers

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Lindsey GutierrezAug 4, 2025
Why is the compressor running but the water is warm in my Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Water Dispenser?
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  Maria ArnoldAug 4, 2025
  If the compressor runs but the water isn't cold, it could be due to a loss of refrigerant, which requires a certified refrigerant technician for repairs. Ensure the condenser fan motor is working and the fan blade turns freely to remove heat. An incorrect refrigerant charge, restriction, or a defective compressor can also cause this issue, indicating a problem within the refrigeration system that needs to be checked by an authorized service company.
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Jessica CastanedaAug 9, 2025
What to do if the compressor is cycling on overload protector in my Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS?
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  charlesbrownAug 9, 2025
  If the compressor is cycling on the overload protector, ensure the incoming voltage is within 10% of the serial nameplate rating. Contact a certified refrigeration mechanic if there's a restriction or moisture in the system. Also, change the overload or relay if defective due to a dirty condenser or a blocked fan.
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Mark GreerAug 14, 2025
How to fix restricted or no water flow in Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS?
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  Kristi SmithAug 14, 2025
  To address restricted or no water flow in your Murdock Water Dispenser, first, ensure the water supply service stop valve is fully open and that there's a minimum of 20 psig supply line flow pressure. Check for any twists or kinks in the bubbler tubing. Inspect the water inlet strainer for sediment or installation materials and clean or replace it as needed. The cartridge valve in the water control assembly or bubbler might also be clogged and require replacement. Refer to start up note #3 for flow adjustment details. If the water is frozen inside the evaporator coil, it indicates a refrigeration problem or thermostat failure, requiring a qualified technician.
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Alexander DavisAug 18, 2025
How to troubleshoot a Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS when the compressor does not run?
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  Angela StevensAug 18, 2025
  If the compressor in your Murdock Water Dispenser isn't running, check the electrical receptacle for power and correct voltage, ensuring it's within 10% of the rated voltage on the serial nameplate. Inspect for loose wires within the compressor box, ensuring the incoming power leads are connected to the overload and relay. If all components have continuity, test the wiring harness plug for continuity to check for broken wires within the wiring harness insulation. If the cold thermostat capillary bulb loses its charge or becomes kinked, unplug the water cooler, check for continuity across the thermostat terminals with an ohm meter, and install a new thermostat if there is no continuity.
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Paula CooleyAug 25, 2025
How to reduce noise from my Murdock Water Dispenser?
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  Kevin AcostaAug 25, 2025
  To address noisy operation in your Murdock Water Dispenser, check that the fan blade rotates freely. Ensure the water cooler is correctly mounted to the wall, using both lower mounting bolts to prevent excess noise and vibration. Also, inspect the compressor mounting to ensure the pins and clips are not rattling. If the compressor noise seems internal, it needs replacement.
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christophercraneAug 28, 2025
What to do if my Murdock A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Water Dispenser has a water drip or will not shut off?
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  Joseph WileyAug 29, 2025
  To fix a water drip or shut-off issue in your Murdock Water Dispenser, remove the pushbutton and adjust the flow regulator to the highest setting using a flat head screwdriver, turning it clockwise. Check if the water drip continues; if it stops, turn the screwdriver counter-clockwise until you achieve the desired flow rate. Ensure the retaining nut is tightened to the valve assembly with 25 in-lb of torque. If the issue persists after adjusting the flow and tightening the retainer nut, replace the flow regulator cartridge.

Summary

Product Overview and Initial Information

Notes for the Installer

Guidance for installers on documentation, code compliance, and manual review.

Murdock Product Warranty Details

Information on limited warranties for US, Canada, and export markets.

Dimensional Data and Roughing-In Requirements

Roughing-In and Dimensional Drawing

Technical diagram with dimensions and roughing-in requirements for installation.

ADA Compliance and Height Adjustments

Guidelines for ADA compliance and vertical dimension adjustments.

Critical Installation Procedures and Warnings

Water Supply, Drain, and Electrical Connections

Instructions for connecting water supply, waste, and electrical services.

Water Pressure and Hammer Arrestor Requirements

Guidelines on water pressure range and pressure-absorbing devices.

Installation Steps and Configuration Diagrams

Mounting and Fixture Installation Steps

Steps for mounting brackets, hanging the cooler, and securing to the wall.

Standard and Alternate Waste Configuration

Diagrams illustrating standard and alternate waste configurations.

Specific Installation and Start-Up Procedures

Outdoor Installation Specific Instructions

Instructions for caulking and weather stripping for outdoor unit installations.

Initial Unit Start-Up and Flushing

Steps for flushing, leak checking, and powering the unit for initial operation.

Pressurized Bi-Level Unit Piping Diagram

Pressurized Bi-Level Unit Piping Installation

Diagram illustrating the piping connections for pressurized bi-level units.

Troubleshooting and Unit Adjustments

Water Flow, Temperature, and Bubbler Stream Adjustments

How to adjust water flow, cold water thermostat, and bubbler stream.

Compressor and Refrigeration Troubleshooting

Steps for diagnosing compressor not running or warm water issues.

Maintenance, Cleaning, and Further Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Compressor Cycling and Water Flow

Diagnosing compressor cycling, noisy operation, and restricted water flow.

Cleaning and Routine Maintenance Guide

Instructions for cleaning exterior panels and internal components.

Cartridge and Strainer Maintenance Procedures

Strainer Maintenance and Cleaning Steps

Procedure for removing the strainer plug and cleaning the strainer screen.

Flow Regulator Cartridge Replacement

Detailed steps for replacing the flow regulator cartridge.

Vandal Resistant Cartridge Maintenance

Vandal Resistant Strainer Maintenance

Steps for maintaining the strainer on vandal resistant models.

Vandal Resistant Cartridge Replacement

Detailed steps for replacing the cartridge on vandal resistant models.

Push-in Fitting Installation and Disconnection

Push-in Fitting Installation and Disconnection Guide

Instructions for installing and disconnecting push-in fittings on tubing.

Water Filter Cartridge Installation

WF1 and WF3 Filter Cartridge Installation Steps

Instructions for installing WF1 and WF3 water filter cartridges.

A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Parts Breakdown Diagram

A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Exploded View Drawing

Exploded view drawing of the A172.8-UG-D1-BFS model parts.

A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Parts List

A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Parts Identification Table

Table listing part numbers and descriptions for the A172.8-UG-D1-BFS model.

Vandal Resistant Parts Breakdown Diagram

Vandal Resistant Exploded View Drawing

Exploded view drawing for vandal resistant water cooler models.

Vandal Resistant Parts List

Vandal Resistant Parts Identification Table

Table listing part numbers for vandal resistant water cooler models.

The Murdock Water Cooler, specifically the A172.8-UG-D1-BFS Series and A172.8-UG-VR-D1-BFS Series, is a universal bi-level, barrier-free, wall-mounted water cooler designed to dispense temperature-cooled water. These models include both standard and vandal-resistant options, with or without bottle fillers. The units are designed to be ADA compliant, with adjustable heights for child ADA 2010 compliance.

Function Description:

The primary function of the Murdock Water Cooler is to provide chilled drinking water. It features a pressurized bi-level unit piping installation, ensuring efficient water delivery. The cooler is equipped with a refrigeration system to cool the water, and a bubbler assembly for dispensing. Some models also include a bottle filler for added convenience. The unit is designed to prevent electrical feedback into the water cooler that could cause electrolysis, which might lead to a metallic taste or increased water metal content. A dielectric coupling is furnished to connect the water cooler to the water supply, preventing galvanic corrosion.

Important Technical Specifications:

Water Supply: 3/8" Outside Diameter copper tube.
Waste: 1-1/4" Outside Diameter.
Water Pressure Range: Operates within 20 to 105 psig. A pressure regulator is required if inlet pressure exceeds 105 psig.
Electrical: Power supply must match the voltage, cycle, and phase specified on the cooler data plate. The compressor should not be wired directly to the power supply; an electrical outlet and furnished power cord must be used.
Refrigeration System: Includes a compressor, condenser, fan motor, and evaporator assembly. Some models feature 220V fan motors and compressors.
Filter Options: Available with -WF1 (1500 gallon capacity, 50 hours of operational usage) or -WF3 (3000 gallon capacity, 100 hours of operational usage) filter cartridges.
Mounting: Wall-mounted, requiring secure anchoring to support three times the weight of the water cooler. Optional fixture support carriers are available if the wall cannot provide adequate support.
Dimensions: ADA adult height compliant, with vertical dimensions adjustable for federal, state, and local codes. For child ADA 2010 compliant parallel approach, reduce * dimensions by 2-3/4".
Ventilation: Requires 4 inches (102mm) minimum clear space per side for ventilation.

Usage Features:

Bi-Level Design: Provides two drinking heights, catering to a wider range of users, including those requiring ADA accessibility.
Barrier-Free: Designed for easy access, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
Adjustable Water Flow: Water flow can be adjusted through the pushbutton using a straight blade screwdriver. Turning clockwise increases flow, counterclockwise decreases it.
Adjustable Cold Water Thermostat: Water temperature can be adjusted using a slotted screwdriver; clockwise for colder water, counterclockwise for warmer water.
Bubbler Stream Adjustment: The bubbler can be rotated slightly to direct the stream and minimize splashing.
Optional Bottle Filler: Some models include a bottle filler for convenient refilling of water bottles.
Outdoor Installation (for -BF1S and -VR-BF1S only): Requires caulking around basins and aprons where they contact the wall to prevent rainwater leakage. A soft rubber weather strip (provided by the installer) is needed between units.

Maintenance Features:

Easy Cartridge Replacement/Strainer Maintenance: A universal maintenance tool is provided for removing the strainer plug, cleaning the strainer, and replacing the flow regulator cartridge. The strainer screen must be in place for water to flow.
Push-In Fitting Installation: Tubing connects securely with push-in fittings, which are easy to insert and disconnect.
Filter Cartridge Replacement: Filter cartridges have specified capacities (1500 or 3000 gallons) and operational usage hours (50 or 100 hours), after which replacement is required.
Cleaning: Exterior panels can be cleaned with mild household detergents or warm, soapy water. Chrome-plated and mirror-finished stainless steel items should be cleaned with a clean, soft cloth and mild soap with water or a mild glass cleaner. Harsh chemicals, abrasive, or petroleum-based cleaners should not be used as they will void the warranty.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section for common issues such as compressor not running, warm water, compressor cycling on overload, noisy operation, restricted or no water flow, and water drip/failure to shut off. This guide helps in diagnosing problems related to electrical supply, thermostat, refrigerant, fan motor, water supply, and cartridge valve.
Lifetime Lubrication: Motors have lifetime lubrication and do not require scheduled maintenance.
Access Panels: Periodically remove access panels and clean out the in-line strainer.

Warranty:

United States & Canada: One (1) year from the date of installation or eighteen (18) months from the date of shipment (whichever comes first) for defects in material and workmanship under normal use.
Compressor & Refrigeration System: An additional four (4) years beyond the initial one-year period for defects in material and workmanship under normal use.
Exclusions: Does not cover installation or labor charges, damage from mishandling, improper care, or abnormal use. Warranty is void if installation does not follow current Acorn Engineering instructions or if unapproved components are used. Stainless steel must be protected during construction and properly maintained after water introduction to avoid voiding the warranty.
Limited Export Warranty: One year on parts only.