Now is the time to prepare your waterers for the upcoming cold weather. Below is a list of suggestions and tips that will help ensure your waterer
will function properly during the coldest days.
Riser tube
Riser tube should be free of water and mud that may freeze.
Check to make sure nothing is touching the waterline in the riser tube.
Do not add extra insulation or fill to the riser tube.
Verify that the water line is centered in the tube.
Learn more about Ritchie Thermal Tubes by visiting our blog
TIP - Frost travels. Anything touching the waterline and the riser tube can cause your waterline to freeze.
Watch our two Thermal Tube videos
1. Engineer Rob Amundson answers common questions about Ritchie Thermal Tubes.
2. View the Thermal Tube section of our Installation Video
Unit Base
Existing installation, check the all weather sealant along the base of the unit. Check for holes or gaps and replace the sealant if necessary.
New installations, apply an all weather sealant along the base of the unit and the concrete pad. This will help prevent wind and cold from entering below the base and will help protect the water line from freezing.
Check area where trough meets the poly base. Seal any gaps that may allow air penetration with an all weather sealant
Water seal groove
Fill the waterseal groove that is located under the red valve chamber cover with water or vegetable oil. (When frozen, the water will form a fresh seal against the wind and the cold, protecting the valve chamber. You will not have to worry about tearing and replacing gaskets.)
TIP
-If water is used, spray cooking spray on the underside of the valve chamber cover to help release when frozen. The cooking spray may need to be reapplied after removal.
-To release the cover, pound on top with hand or rubber mallet.
Water seal groove around valve chamber on CT units
Electric Supply
Verify fuses or circuit breakers are functioning
Check all heating elements to make sure they are working and hot. This can be done by either placing ice or ice water in the trough of the unit.
Check that cable heater is installed properly, is uncoiled and fastened around the valve and fastened to the water supply line.
Riser tube
