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 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

Watch our installation, thermal tube video.

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 and Casing

If not already done, apply an all weather sealant along the base of the unit and the concrete pad. Exisiting installations, check the sealant for gaps or holes and replace or repair if needed.

Check casing for air gaps that wil allow wind penetrations. Seal gaps with an all weather sealant.

Stall Fount 125

Verify water supply line is centered in the shroud, especially in installations where walls are either an outside wall or subject to frost.

Check shroud for air gaps for wind penetrations. Seal gaps with an all weather sealant.

All Units

Check for missing or damaged insulation, replace if necessary.

Make sure flexible hose does not touch the side of the casing or frame. This can cause frost to carry and potentially freeze the water line.

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.