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Trouble-Shooting Bubblers

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First, confirm the style bubbler ordered. This will determine orientation

B1 Upward Arc

B1H Upward Arc

B3H Downward Stream

B5H Drinking Fountain Bubbler (Deck
Mounted)

A diagram of bubbler orientations for B1, B1H, B3H, and B5H bubblers.

Symptom: Bubbler spurts water when pushbutton is released.

Water spurting from the spout when the pushbutton is released can be caused by air in the supply tubing to the spout. This is a common problem with project start-ups and there is no good or easy way to avoid it.

Some suggestions to lessen this phenomena are:

  • Systematically purge each tap starting with the most remotely located from the source of flow.
  • Locate pneumatic valves as close as practical to the fixtures they serve. Never install a valve above a fixture with more than ten feet of tubing between the valve and the valve outlet as this produces a “Head” pressure and accentuates the spurting problem.

Symptom: Bubbler stream overshoots the lavatory basin (steady stream).

  • Check water pressure at the fixture. Pneumatic valves require 25-80PSI to operate properly.
  • Check the flow control fitting to be sure the flow restrictor is in place. The flow restrictor is normally located inside the fitting where the outlet supply tubing is connected to the valve. Penal spouts are designed for a rate of 0.5 gpm flow rate provided by the flow restrictor. Flow rate cannot be adjusted adequately using the inlet stops on the valve. Flow restrictors over 0.5gpm will cause the stream to shoot over the bowl.
  • Check the hole in the spout or bubbler for debris or blockage. The outlet hole of the bubbler must be clear of any obstruc­tion or partial obstruction to form proper height of arc. Clear any debris inside the bubbler head by disconnecting the sup­ply tube from the fitting and blowing air back through the bubbler. Do not use tools or probes through the hole on the bubbler as they may damage the finish or distort the hole, causing an erratic stream. Re-assemble the valve and adjust timing to desired cycle length.
  • Check that you have the bubbler installed correctly. Depending on the option you ordered, the B1H and B3H may look visually similar but are designed to be installed in different orientations. See the orientation image.

Symptom: Bubbler steam does not form a high enough arc.

  • Check the flow control fitting for blockage. Clear any debris with air pressure or flushing with clean water. Do not use probes to clear blockage as this may cause damage to the flow restrictor.
  • Check plastic supply tubing for possible kinks that would restrict water flow.
  • Make sure supply inlet stops are open and the screw on top of the stop check is fully backed out.
  • Turn off inlet stops and inspect strainer screens for blockage or mineral build-up. Use clean water to rinse away debris.