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.
Part # Description
Top view of
WaterMatic 100 shown
with Riser Tube
underneath
WaterMatic Small Instruction Manual
Part # 17736
October 1, 2022
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