Float valves are devices that are designed to automatically shut off the flow of water to a tank, waterer or in this example, a fountain, at a pre-set level.
The float valve has an air-filled ball that cuts off water flow when a certain level is reached.
The float valve is an integral part of automatic livestock waterers and drinkers. The float valve keeps waterers filled so you don't have to. The time savings are great with this cool device.
Although there are many variations, the basic design of livestock waterers encompass: a drinking reservoir that fills automatically when a valve is triggered due to declining water level.
Energy free and energy efficient options are available. When a supplemental heat source is needed to prevent freezing in extended cold temperatures, an energy efficient model is recommended.
It should also be noted that energy-free models are more likely to freeze if they are not used by a prescribed minimum number of animals.
We purchased our fountain float valve in the livestock and poultry waterer section at a local farm retailer, Peel Hardware & Supply in Caledon, ON.