No, Ferguson does not sell direct to the end user.  In order to protect our dealer network, we only offer the Ritchie line through our dealers.  Click Here to find a dealer near you.

Please contact Jeremy Tritten regarding becoming a Ritchie Authorized Dealer.

Most all poly models will have the name molded in the top cover of the unit.  The steel units if aged may be more difficult to determine.  There is a brass data plate near the wiring for the unit that will have model and date of manufacture information on it.  If you can still not find the model, contact us with the dimensions of the unit and we will assist you in determining it.

Not a problem, we stock a complete line of repair parts and units in our inventory.  We are able to ship to anywhere in our territory of Illinois, Wisconsin and the U.P. next day via several different shippers without the additional costs of next day service.  Contact your local dealer and inform them you want it shipped direct to your door, we will take care of the rest. 

All Ritchie fountains carry a ten-year warranty. On poly units, this is five years full warranty, with a prorated (20% per year) warranty the last five years. Stainless steel troughs and frames carry a full (100%) warranty for 10 years. Steel casings, access panels, and covers carry a prorated (10% per year) warranty for ten years. Valves and heaters are warranted for one year from the date of purchase.

This can be one of several problems. Over time, the neoprene disk on the valve plunger can build up with mineral deposits. These deposits will not let the plunger make a tight seal. Turning the disk over or installing a new disk will solve this problem. A sinking float or a loose or stripped wing nut or thumbscrew can also cause a unit to overflow. This problem can be fixed with new components. When none of the above apply, it is usually a case of too much water pressure that won’t let the valve shut off. When pressure is a problem, the unit should be fitted with a valve designed for higher pressures. If a high-pressure valve does not solve the problem, a pressure regulator must be installed in the line ahead of the valve. Another situation that can cause this is water hammer. The surge from a water hammer situation can cause the valve to sputter for long periods of time creating the appearance that the valve won’t shut off. This can also be solved with an inline pressure regulator.

No, a culvert or drain tile will not produce the same insulating properties as our Thermal Tubes will buried beneath your unit.  Ritchie Industries did a great deal of testing and development with regards to the Thermal Tubes in order to find the correct size for the best insulation of your supply line.  After the testing was complete the Thermal Tubes we have proved to be the most effective in keeping the temperature of the incoming water the same as it was leaving its source when it enters the water valve.  This is imperative when extreme cold temperatures arrive and energy efficiency is desired.

For detailed installation instructions please follow this link to the Ritchie website.

Installation Instructions

Watch an installation video - click here

Yes, parts are available for most Ritchie units still service today.  Contact us or your local dealer to help determine what unit you have in operation and we will assist you in finding the correct parts.  Some components have been updated in recent years but will still work in older units.

Depending upon which energy company you are connected to, you may be eligible for a rebate when installing a Ritchie waterer.  Please contact your local energy company for more details regarding their specific programs.