Nothing is quite as frustrating as approaching a drinking fountain on a hot day, only to be met with a trickle, a spray, or… nothing at all. Elkay drinking fountains are known for their durability and reliability, but even the best equipment can experience problems. Before you call a plumber or maintenance crew, let's explore some common Elkay fountain issues and quick fixes you can try yourself. Getting your fountain back in working order might be easier than you think, ensuring everyone stays hydrated and happy. Let's dive into how to troubleshoot and resolve those common fountain frustrations.

My Elkay Fountain Has No Water Flow – What's Up?

A complete lack of water is the most disheartening fountain problem. Here's a systematic approach to diagnosing the cause:

1. Is the Water Supply On? This might sound obvious, but it's the most common culprit!

  • Check the Shut-Off Valve: Locate the shut-off valve for the fountain's water supply. It's usually under the fountain or nearby on the wall. Make sure it's fully open. A valve that's only partially open will restrict water flow. If it's a handle-style valve, it should be aligned with the water pipe. If it's a knob-style valve, turn it counter-clockwise until it stops.

  • Water Supply Issues: If the valve is open, check if there's a general water outage in the building. Other fixtures might be affected, indicating a broader problem.

2. The Filter Might Be Clogged (If Applicable): Many Elkay fountains have built-in filters to improve water quality.

  • Locate the Filter: Refer to your Elkay fountain's model number and documentation to find the filter location. It's usually behind an access panel or within the fountain's housing.

  • Inspect the Filter: Remove the filter and examine it. If it's visibly dirty or clogged with sediment, it needs to be replaced. A heavily clogged filter will severely restrict water flow.

  • Replace the Filter: Use the correct replacement filter for your Elkay model. Installing the wrong filter can damage the fountain or prevent it from working correctly.

3. Air Lock in the Water Line: Air trapped in the water line can prevent water from flowing properly.

  • Purge the Air: Locate the bubbler head (the part you drink from). Gently press the bubbler head down and hold it open. This allows any trapped air to escape. You might hear hissing as the air is released. Continue holding the bubbler head open until a steady stream of water flows.

  • Repeat if Necessary: If the water flow is still weak or intermittent, repeat the purging process several times.

4. Check for Kinks in the Supply Tubing: The flexible tubing that connects the water supply to the fountain can sometimes get kinked, restricting water flow.

  • Inspect the Tubing: Carefully examine the tubing from the shut-off valve to the fountain. Look for any sharp bends or kinks.

  • Straighten the Tubing: Gently straighten any kinks in the tubing. Be careful not to damage the tubing. If the tubing is severely kinked or damaged, it might need to be replaced.

Weak Water Flow – Not Enough to Quench Thirst!

A weak stream of water is almost as frustrating as no water at all. Here's how to boost that flow:

1. Water Pressure Problems: Low water pressure in the building can affect the fountain's performance.

  • Check Other Fixtures: See if other faucets and fixtures in the building are also experiencing low water pressure. If so, the problem isn't specific to the fountain. Contact your building's maintenance team or water utility.

  • Adjust the Water Pressure (If Possible): Some buildings have a water pressure regulator. If the pressure is set too low, it can affect fountain performance. Adjusting the regulator requires specialized knowledge and tools, so it's best left to a qualified professional.

2. Partially Clogged Bubbler Head: Debris can build up inside the bubbler head, restricting water flow.

  • Remove the Bubbler Head: Carefully unscrew or detach the bubbler head from the fountain. Refer to your Elkay model's documentation for specific instructions.

  • Clean the Bubbler Head: Rinse the bubbler head under running water to remove any visible debris. Use a small brush or toothpick to dislodge any stubborn particles.

  • Soak in Vinegar (Optional): For stubborn clogs, soak the bubbler head in white vinegar for 30 minutes. Vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits. Rinse thoroughly after soaking.

  • Reassemble the Bubbler Head: Reattach the bubbler head to the fountain, ensuring it's securely fastened.

3. Scale Buildup in the Water Lines: Over time, mineral deposits (scale) can accumulate inside the fountain's water lines, restricting water flow.

  • Flush the System: Disconnect the water supply line and attach a hose to the fountain's inlet. Connect the other end of the hose to a hot water source. Run hot water through the fountain for several minutes to help dissolve scale buildup.

  • Use a Descaling Solution (Optional): For heavy scale buildup, use a descaling solution specifically designed for plumbing fixtures. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

The Fountain is Leaking – Where's the Water Coming From?

Leaks can waste water and cause damage. Identifying the source of the leak is the first step to fixing it.

1. Check the Obvious Connections:

  • Supply Line Connection: Inspect the connection between the water supply line and the fountain. Make sure it's tight and there are no signs of leaks. Tighten the connection if necessary.

  • Drain Connection: Check the drain connection for leaks. Make sure the drainpipe is properly connected and there are no cracks or breaks.

2. Inspect the Bubbler Head:

  • Loose Connection: Make sure the bubbler head is securely attached to the fountain. A loose bubbler head can cause leaks.

  • Damaged Bubbler Head: Look for cracks or damage to the bubbler head. A damaged bubbler head might need to be replaced.

3. Look for Internal Leaks:

  • Access Panels: Remove the access panels on the fountain to inspect for internal leaks. Look for water dripping from connections, valves, or tubing.

  • Common Leak Points: Pay close attention to the connections around the filter (if applicable), the solenoid valve (controls water flow), and the drain assembly.

4. Tighten Connections or Replace Parts:

  • Tighten Loose Connections: Use a wrench to tighten any loose connections. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the fittings.

  • Replace Damaged Parts: If you find a damaged part, such as a cracked fitting or a leaking valve, replace it with a new one. Refer to your Elkay model's documentation for the correct replacement parts.

Water is Constantly Running – It Won't Stop!

A fountain that runs constantly is a waste of water and can be annoying.

1. Stuck Bubbler Head:

  • Check for Obstructions: Make sure there's nothing preventing the bubbler head from returning to its closed position. Debris or mineral deposits can sometimes cause it to stick.

  • Clean the Bubbler Head: Remove the bubbler head and clean it thoroughly, as described in the "Weak Water Flow" section.

2. Faulty Solenoid Valve: The solenoid valve controls the water flow to the fountain. If it's faulty, it might not close properly, causing the water to run continuously.

  • Locate the Solenoid Valve: Refer to your Elkay model's documentation to find the solenoid valve location. It's usually behind an access panel.

  • Test the Solenoid Valve: Use a multimeter to test the solenoid valve's continuity. If the valve is not functioning correctly, it will need to be replaced. This is usually a task best left to a qualified technician.

3. Damaged or Worn Valve Components:

  • Inspect Valve Components: Check the valve components for damage or wear. Worn seals or damaged springs can cause the valve to leak.

  • Replace Valve Components: Replace any damaged or worn valve components. Refer to your Elkay model's documentation for the correct replacement parts.

Water Tastes or Smells Bad – Not Refreshing!

Unpleasant tasting or smelling water can discourage people from using the fountain.

1. Stale Water: If the fountain hasn't been used for a while, the water in the lines can become stale.

  • Flush the System: Run the fountain for several minutes to flush out the stale water.

2. Clogged or Expired Filter: A dirty or expired filter can affect the water's taste and smell.

  • Replace the Filter: Replace the filter with a new one. Make sure to use the correct replacement filter for your Elkay model.

3. Contaminated Water Supply: In rare cases, the water supply itself might be contaminated.

  • Contact Water Utility: If you suspect the water supply is contaminated, contact your local water utility for testing and advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I replace the filter in my Elkay drinking fountain? A: Filter replacement frequency depends on water quality and usage, but generally, replace the filter every 6-12 months, or sooner if water flow decreases significantly. Check your filter's specifications for the recommended replacement schedule.

Q: How do I find the model number of my Elkay drinking fountain? A: The model number is typically located on a label on the fountain's frame, often behind an access panel or near the water supply connection. Refer to your fountain's documentation for the exact location.

Q: Can I use any type of filter in my Elkay drinking fountain? A: No, always use the specific replacement filter recommended for your Elkay model. Using the wrong filter can damage the fountain or prevent it from working properly.

Q: What do I do if I can't fix the problem myself? A: If you've tried the troubleshooting steps and the fountain is still not working correctly, contact a qualified plumber or Elkay service technician. They have the expertise to diagnose and repair more complex problems.

Q: Where can I find replacement parts for my Elkay drinking fountain? A: Replacement parts can be purchased from authorized Elkay distributors or online retailers that specialize in plumbing supplies. Have your model number ready when ordering.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting an Elkay drinking fountain doesn't always require a professional. By systematically checking the water supply, filter, bubbler head, and connections, you can often identify and resolve common problems. Remember to always consult your fountain's documentation and use the correct replacement parts to ensure optimal performance and longevity.