Ritchie 1/2" White Valve #12574

The low-pressure valve in the Ritchie 1/2" series. Ideal for gravity-flow systems and any supply running 5-40 PSI, where its larger orifice moves the most water of the three, an average of 4.8 gallons per minute.

Fits the smaller Ritchie waterers that take a 1/2" valve. If your pressure runs higher, use the red 12575 (40-60 PSI) or the green 13597 (60-80 PSI) instead.

Measure pressure at the waterer rather than at the source, at a few times of day. Replacement valve rubber is part 15151, sold in packs of 10.

How far should the valve thread into the valve bracket?

Hand tight, and no further. This is the question we are asked most often about this valve, and the common belief is wrong: the valve is not meant to screw in until the threads disappear. Threads still showing between the valve and the bracket after you have hand tightened it is normal and correct.

If you would rather see it than read it, this short video shows how far the valve goes in.

Not sure yours is seated right? Send us a photo through our contact form and we will tell you.

Which valve for your water pressure?

All three fit the same 1/2" Ritchie units. The lower the pressure a valve is built for, the larger its orifice and the more water it moves.

Measure the pressure at the waterer, not at the source, at a few different times of day and use the average. City pressure in particular swings with usage.

Why is my valve dripping?

Five things to check, in the order worth checking them. Most of these are small fixes.

1. Debris in the line. On a new install, if the line was not flushed before hookup, something small can lodge in the valve and stop it sealing. Flush the line.
2. Mineral buildup on the valve rubber. The usual cause on an older unit: buildup keeps the neoprene from seating tight. Flip the rubber over, or replace it with part 15151, sold in packs of 10.
3. Worn parts. A float that has taken on water and sits low, or a wing nut or thumbscrew that has worked loose or stripped, will let the trough overflow. Replace the worn piece.
4. Too much water pressure. Check the pressure before going further. The signs are a valve that drips constantly and will not shut off, a float without the buoyancy to close it, and valve rubber that comes out distorted and will no longer lie flat. Move up the chart to the next valve, or fit a pressure regulator ahead of the unit.
5. Water hammer. A pressure surge can make the valve sputter and look as though it is not shutting off. A regulator smooths the surge out.

Above 80 PSI, or where pressure spikes, the Ritchie Pressure Reducing Valve Package 18649 holds steady pressure at the waterer.

Not sure what you have? Send us a photo of the unit and the tag through our contact form and we will identify it for you.