The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
How To Design And Install Plumbing
DRINKING FOUNTAINS
Drinking fountains are a convenience which most building operators provide for the public. These fixtures may be located conveniently in corridors, rest rooms, workshops and other places. As a rule, the drinking fountain or bubbler, as it is sometimes called, is connected to the domestic cold-water distribution system, which provides its supply. In some cases elaborate and expensive drinking water equipment is installed. This equipment consists of a filter, cooling tank, sterilizer, and circulator pump, which keeps the water at a constant temperature, making it pleasant to drink.
Drinking fountain design has greatly improved in the last few years, because sanitary authorities came to realize that the older types of fixtures were a source by which disease might be communicated. The older forms of fountain consisted of a basin with a bubbling head which allowed the water to drain over it. Variations in pressure and other circumstances often reduced the flow so the person using the fountain would contact the bubbler head with his mouth. This condition is decidedly dangerous.
The new fountains are provided with a drinking orifice, above the overflow rim, that directs a slanting stream of water into the waste basin. The orifice is protected in such a manner that the person using the drinking fountain is prevented from coming into direct contact with it.
Wall Fountain. Fig. 329 illustrates a wall-hung drinking fountain with a slanting stream drinking orifice. This type of fixture should be set from 30 to 36 inches from the floor, depending on the type of building in which it is installed.
Pedestal Fountain. The pedestal drinking fountain, Fig. 330, is constructed of vitreous china and is designed in many styles. The fixture is an elaborate one and its use is confined to theater foyers, rest rooms, hotel lobbies and similar places. The fixture is also of the slant stream type and is considered sanitary in every respect.
Supply Devices. The water supply device of a drinking fountain consists of a self-closing compression stop and a stream regulating valve attached to the drinking orifice. A self-closing valve is considered practical because it eliminates excessive waste of water.
Traps. The trap of a drinking fountain usually is of 11/4-inch diameter, of the P variety. The trap may be made of any of the accepted materials previously discussed.
