Elkay water fountains and bottle fillers are designed to be sturdy, sanitary, hands-free machines, but like any mechanical object that gets used every day, they can run into issues. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get at Water Refill Group along with possible causes and step-by-step solutions so that you, the Water Refill Group customer, can troubleshoot common problems with your Elkay water fountain and keep them running like clockwork, or, more literally, keep your Elkay units flowing.
Common Questions & Solutions
Q: The water stream from the bubbler or bottle filler is too weak. Why?
Possible Causes & Solutions:
- Building water pressure is too low. If you’ve just installed the unit, it’s possible the water supply pressure in your facility is below what Elkay set the unit to during their quality control testing. Confirm that all shut-off valves are fully open.
- Fittings or sealant is not correct. After shutting off the water supply, unscrew the unit’s protective sealant, wrap the Teflon tape around threaded connections, or tighten the compression fittings.
- Press bar adjustment screw is set wrong, The press bar adjustment screw on some models (EHF, WC, HAC, EMABF) might need adjustment. Follow your unit’s specific instructions to make these fine tuning changes.
- Clogged solenoid, or solenoid valve is faulty. The solenoid valve must open completely. If not, the solenoid may need to be cleaned or replaced.
- Strainer screen is clogged. After isolating the water supply, unscrew the strainer screen, clean out any obstructions, inspect the O-ring, then screw back in. Replace if damaged.
- Filter is clogged or old. A filter that has been used for a while can become partially clogged and cause low flow. Replace the filter to restore water flow if it is obvious that flow is weaker than normal.
- Water line is kinked or blocked. Straighten any kinks and inspect internally for obstructions.
- Shut-off or regulator valve is not fully open. Confirm that the shut-off valve is wide open. If the regulator is defective, it will need to be replaced.
Q: The water stream is too high. How do I adjust it to lower the water stream?
Solutions:
- Turn the regulator screw counter-clockwise to lower the water stream.
- Ensure that the shut-off valves are fully open (only partially opening a valve can cause back pressure).
- Inspect the bubbler outlet to confirm there is no debris or buildup on it.
Q: Water won’t stop flowing (continuous flow), what’s wrong?
Solutions:
- Unplug the unit. If water continues to flow, the solenoid and/or diaphragm is defective and needs to be replaced.
- Check the press bar. If it’s sticking, it may be pushing the microswitch. Clean, adjust, or replace as necessary.
- Inspect the microswitch. If defective, it will stay in an “on” position even when not depressed. Replace as necessary.
Filter Related Issues / LED light flashes
Flashing red light / When to Replace the Filter:
- The light on your Elkay bottle filler is flashing red to indicate the filter should be replaced.
- Replace the current filter with a compatible Elkay WaterSentry or alternative (most units do not need the water supply shut off to replace the filter).
Resetting the Filter Status Light:
- Locate the filter housing or LED control panel.
- Hold down the reset button for about 2 seconds.
- Look for a message that reads “RST FLTR” or similar.
- Release the button, the status light should switch from red to green.
Other Helpful Maintenance Tips:
- Use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to regularly wipe down the exterior surfaces of your Elkay drinking fountain or bottle filler.
- Clean flexible fill mats with a mild soap, rinse well and hang to dry before reinstalling.
- Inspect strainer screens periodically and clean or replace if needed.
- Allow for adequate airflow and keep condenser coils dust free for cooled units.
Professional Repair Services
If you need professional repair, some common issues that need a skilled hand include:
- Replacing solenoids, regulators, or refrigeration components
- Correcting internal wiring issues or microswitch problems
- Persistent water temperature that is too hot or cold even after cleaning and replacing the filters
Troubleshooting Help: Quick Checklist
A quick troubleshooting checklist when diagnosing problems. Check in order:
- Power and water supply: (look for tripped breakers, closed valves, un-plugged units, water pressure)
- Flow obstructions (strainer, filter, water line, restriction)
- Moving parts and controls (press bar, microswitch, etc.)
- Filter status and LED indicators on the Elkay
- Mechanical parts and regulators (regulator, solenoid, water shutoff valves, etc.)
Conclusion
Maintaining the cleanliness and operation of your Elkay ezH2O or drinking fountain does more than avoid frustrating downtime. It also ensures safe, high quality, great tasting water for fountain users. Following these troubleshooting steps will help you solve most problems quickly and keep your hydration station operating at its best for the long run.