1. Introduction
The Woodford Y2-1 Freezeless Yard Hydrant is designed to provide reliable water access throughout the year, even in freezing conditions. This manual offers comprehensive instructions for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Y2-1 hydrant to ensure optimal performance and longevity. It is ideal for irrigation, filling field spray equipment, and general outdoor water tasks.
2. Safety Information
- Always ensure water supply is turned off before attempting any installation or maintenance.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection during installation.
- If you are unsure about any installation steps, consult a qualified plumber or professional.
- Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks and water damage.
- Do not use the hydrant for purposes other than its intended use (irrigation, general outdoor water supply).
3. Product Overview
3.1 Key Features
- Freezeless Operation: Designed to remain unfrozen in frigid temperatures, allowing year-round use.
- Durable Construction: Features a brass valve body resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Precise Flow Control: One-piece valve plunger enables maximum water flow with minimal effort.
- Automatic Drainage: Drains automatically below the frost line when shut off.
- Adjustable Link: Allows for quick and easy adjustment of lever lock tension.
- Rod Guide: Prevents twisting or kinking of the water line, improving flow and pressure.
- Flow Finder and Lock: Helps identify potential water leaks and promotes efficient water use.
- Backflow Protection: Includes a dual check valve backflow protection device (Model 50HA).
3.2 Components
The Woodford Y2-1 Freezeless Yard Hydrant consists of several key components working together to provide reliable outdoor water access.
Figure 1: Woodford Y2-1 Freezeless Yard Hydrant. This image displays the complete Woodford Y2-1 Freezeless Yard Hydrant. It features a red cast iron head with a handle and spout, connected to a long, grey metal standpipe, terminating in a brass valve body at the bottom.
- Hydrant Head: The upper portion containing the handle, spout, and internal operating mechanism.
- Standpipe: The long metal pipe connecting the head to the valve body, designed to extend below the frost line.
- Valve Body: The brass component at the bottom of the standpipe, housing the valve plunger and drain hole.
- Handle: Used to activate and deactivate water flow.
- Spout: Where water exits the hydrant.
- Drain Hole: A 1/8" tapped National Pipe Thread (NPT) hole located below the frost line for automatic draining.
- Inlet: A 1" NPT female inlet for connecting to the water supply.
4. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the freezeless operation of the Woodford Y2-1 hydrant.
- Determine Bury Depth: The hydrant requires a bury depth of 1 foot. The total length of the hydrant is approximately 35.5 inches, ensuring the valve body and drain hole are positioned below your local frost line. Consult local building codes for frost line depth in your area.
- Excavate Trench: Dig a trench and hole to accommodate the hydrant, ensuring the bottom valve body and drain hole are well below the frost line.
- Connect Water Supply: Connect the 1" NPT female inlet of the hydrant to your main water supply line. Use appropriate thread sealant (e.g., PTFE tape or pipe dope) to ensure a watertight connection.
- Backfill with Gravel: Backfill the area around the valve body with gravel (approximately 6-12 inches) to facilitate proper drainage from the drain hole. This prevents water from accumulating around the valve and freezing.
- Complete Backfill: Carefully backfill the remainder of the trench, compacting the soil as you go.
- Check for Leaks: Slowly turn on the main water supply and check all connections for leaks.
- Adjust Lever Lock Tension: Use the adjustable link to set the desired tension for the lever lock mechanism. This ensures smooth operation and proper shut-off.
Important: Incorrect bury depth or insufficient gravel around the drain hole can compromise the freezeless function of the hydrant.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Turning Water On
- Lift the handle upwards to open the valve.
- Water will begin to flow from the spout. The flow rate can be adjusted by the degree to which the handle is lifted.
5.2 Turning Water Off
- Push the handle downwards until it is fully closed.
- Once the handle is fully closed, the valve plunger seals the water supply, and the water remaining in the standpipe above the frost line will automatically drain out through the drain hole into the surrounding gravel. This automatic draining prevents freezing.
Note: Always ensure the handle is fully closed after use to allow for complete drainage and prevent freezing.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the continued reliable operation of your Woodford Y2-1 hydrant.
- Annual Inspection: Annually inspect the hydrant for any signs of wear, leaks, or damage.
- Check Drain Function: Periodically verify that the hydrant drains completely after shut-off. If water remains in the standpipe, the drain hole may be clogged or the bury depth is insufficient.
- Valve Plunger and Seal: The one-piece valve plunger and cushioned seal are designed for longevity. If you notice reduced flow or persistent leaks when the hydrant is off, the plunger or seal may need inspection or replacement.
- Lubrication: Moving parts within the hydrant head may benefit from occasional lubrication with a silicone-based grease suitable for potable water systems.
- Rod Guide: Ensure the rod guide is free from debris to prevent twisting or kinking of the operating rod.
- Backflow Device: The Model 50HA dual check valve backflow protection device should be inspected and tested periodically according to local regulations.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Water Flow | Main water supply off; valve not fully open; clogged inlet. | Check main water supply; ensure handle is fully lifted; inspect inlet for obstructions. |
| Continuous Leak from Spout (when off) | Valve plunger or seal worn/damaged; debris preventing full seal. | Turn off water supply, inspect and clean/replace valve plunger and seal. |
| Water Freezes in Standpipe | Drain hole clogged; insufficient gravel around drain; bury depth above frost line; handle not fully closed. | Ensure handle is fully closed; check drain hole for obstructions; verify bury depth and gravel packing. |
| Leak at Base/Underground | Loose inlet connection; damaged valve body. | Turn off water, excavate and inspect inlet connection; tighten or re-seal as needed. If valve body is damaged, replacement may be necessary. |
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Y2-1 |
| Brand | Woodford |
| Material | Brass (Valve Body), Metal (Handle) |
| Bury Depth | 1 foot (below ground level for valve body) |
| Overall Length | Approximately 35.5 inches |
| Head Dimensions | 3"D x 3.15"W x 2.56"H |
| Inlet Size | 1" National Pipe Thread (NPT) Female |
| Drain Hole Size | 1/8" Tapped NPT |
| Backflow Protection | Dual Check Valve (Model 50HA) |
| Item Weight | 20 Pounds |
| UPC | 671090020461 |
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your Woodford Y2-1 Freezeless Yard Hydrant, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Woodford manufacturing website.
If you require technical assistance, replacement parts, or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Woodford customer support.
- Manufacturer: Woodford
- Website: www.woodfordmfg.com (Example link, actual link may vary)
- Contact: Refer to the manufacturer's website for current contact information (phone, email, support forms).
