Discover the allure of the Woodford Y34, a premium outdoor water hydrant designed for durability and reliable performance. Perfect for homeowners, gardeners, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Y34 offers hassle-free access to fresh water year-round. In this shopping guide, we’ll explore its standout features, benefits, and tips for choosing the best model to meet your needs, ensuring your investment is both practical and worthwhile.
Woodford Y34 Yard Hydrant Models: Comparison Table
| Model | Bury Depth (ft) | Inlet Size | Outlet Size | Application Scenarios | Approx. Weight (lbs) | Flow Finder/Limiter | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y34-2 | 2 | 3/4″ FPT | 3/4″ Hose | Shallow frost line, backyards, gardens | 17 | Yes | $160 – $165 |
| Y34-3 | 3 | 3/4″ FPT | 3/4″ Hose | Moderate frost line, general rural/residential use | 19 | Yes | $162 – $167 |
| Y34-4 | 4 | 3/4″ FPT | 3/4″ Hose | Colder climates, standard for farms, stables | 22 | Yes | $163 – $170 |
| Y34-5 | 5 | 3/4″ FPT | 3/4″ Hose | Deep frost line, commercial/municipal – parks or campgrounds | 24 | Yes | $170 – $175 |
Compatibility
The Woodford Y34 yard hydrant is a versatile, freezeless, frost-proof outdoor hydrant designed for various water supply applications in environments exposed to freezing temperatures. This hydrant is compatible with:
- Non-potable Water Systems: Intended for irrigation, washing equipment, filling livestock troughs, and other non-drinking water applications.
- Standard U.S. Plumbing: Features a 3/4″ Female National Pipe Thread (NPT) inlet, suitable for most outdoor and underground water supply lines.
- Standard Garden Hose Connections: The outlet supports a common 3/4″ garden hose or compatible attachments.
- Gravel Drainage Fields: Requires installation with a gravel base or remote drain field for proper freeze protection.
- Various Bury Depths: Available in multiple sizes (2 ft to 5 ft, and beyond by special order) to match your region’s frost line.
Application Scenarios
- Farms and Ranches: Watering livestock, cleaning equipment, or filling field sprayers year-round.
- Residential Yards and Gardens: Convenient for gardeners and homeowners where consistent outdoor access to water—even in winter—is necessary.
- Municipal Parks and Campgrounds: Reliable hydrant for maintenance, recreation, or event setups, capable of withstanding freezing cold conditions.
- Stables and Kennels: Keeps fresh water available for animals through all seasons.
How Woodford Y34 Works
The Woodford Y34 hydrant is engineered to deliver immediate water flow even in sub-zero temperatures while protecting against freezing when not in use. Its functionality is made possible by several smart design elements:
- Variable Flow Control: The one-piece plunger lets you control the water flow from a trickle to full stream.
- Freezeless Drainage: When you shut off the hydrant and remove all devices (like hoses) from the nozzle, the hydrant automatically drains below the frost line, preventing freeze damage.
- Flow Finder & Lock: A unique cam mechanism allows for consistent flow rate every use or locks the hydrant to prevent accidental opening.
- Rod Guide & Graphite Packing: The rod is stabilized within the casing to reduce side pull and extend the life of internal seals through low-friction graphite packing.
- Maintenance from the Top: All repairs can be performed above ground without removing the hydrant from the installation pit.
Installation Tips
Installing a Woodford Y34 yard hydrant properly is crucial for reliable, long-term performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to best practices:
1. Determine Proper Bury Depth
- Check your area’s average frost line and select a hydrant with matching or greater bury depth.
2. Site Preparation
- Excavate a Hole: At least 2 feet in diameter and deeper than the hydrant’s bury length.
- Gravel Base: Fill the bottom of the pit with a minimum of 3 inches of 1/2″ gravel to ensure good drainage around the valve body.
3. Assembly
- Flush Supply Line: Before installation, flush the supply line to remove debris.
- Attach Hydrant: Use two wrenches—one on the supply fitting, one on the brass valve body—to securely attach the hydrant. This prevents overtightening and ensures proper alignment.
4. Drainage Considerations
- Ensure Drain Hole is Below Frost Line: The hydrant’s drain must sit completely beneath the frost line for full frost-proof protection.
- Add More Gravel: If necessary, especially in areas with poor drainage or heavy soil, increase gravel depth or create a remote drain field to direct water away from structures.
- In Concrete or Indoor Installations: Route a drain pipe from the hydrant’s drain opening to an external gravel pit to avoid water leaking up around the hydrant.
5. Support & Backfill
- Stabilize Hydrant: If the supply line doesn’t fully support the hydrant, drive rebar or a support post into the pit’s bottom for extra stability.
- Backfill Carefully: After verifying all connections are leak-free, backfill around the hydrant with gravel and finally with earth, tamping gently.
6. Final Checks
- Operate Hydrant: Turn on water, check for leaks, and confirm proper operation before completing the backfill.
- Adjust Linkage: Fine-tune the handle and linkage tension for crisp, reliable shutoff and opening.
Maintenance Advice
Regular maintenance ensures your Woodford Y34 remains free of leaks and freeze damage for years. Here’s how to keep your hydrant in top shape:
Routine Checks
- Inspect Annually: Check for leaks, ease of operation, and solid handle closure.
- Clear Drainage Area: Remove sediment or debris from around the drain field to ensure proper water evacuation after use.
Repair and Adjustment
- Packing Nut Tightening: If water leaks from the stem, tighten the packing nut just until the leak stops.
- Packing Replacement: If a persistent leak occurs at the stem, replace the graphite packing as follows:
- Shut off water and disassemble the head as per manual instructions.
- Remove old packing, clean the area, insert new packing, and reassemble.
- Top-Side Repairs: Most repairs (plunger, packing, handle) can be done from above ground, minimizing downtime and labor.
Winterizing and Usage
- Remove Hoses: Always disconnect hoses or attachments after use; leaving devices attached may prevent the hydrant from draining correctly, leading to freeze damage.
- Handle Adjustment: If the hydrant doesn’t snap shut firmly or flows when it shouldn’t, adjust the linkage tension.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Select Correct Model: Match the Y34 model’s bury depth to the maximum frost line depth in your area for true freeze protection.
- Drainage is Key: The hydrant’s longevity depends on quick drainage away from the valve body after every use. Excess mud or poorly drained areas can defeat the freeze-resistance.
- Label Non-potable Use: This hydrant is not “lead-free” by drinking water standards—use only for irrigation or cleaning, not for supplying drinking/cooking water.
- Regular Handle Movement: Exercise the hydrant periodically, especially if seasonal usage, to prevent sticking or seizing of internal parts.
- Keep Area Accessible: Avoid piling mulch, soil, or landscape debris up around your hydrant, as this can block drainage and hinder maintenance.
Technical Comparison Table
| Feature | Y34-2 | Y34-3 | Y34-4 | Y34-5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bury Depth (ft) | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Total Length (inches) | 47.5 | 59.5 | 71.5 | 83.5 |
| Outlet Size | 3/4″ Hose | 3/4″ Hose | 3/4″ Hose | 3/4″ Hose |
| Inlet Size | 3/4″ FPT NPT | 3/4″ FPT NPT | 3/4″ FPT NPT | 3/4″ FPT NPT |
| Casing | 1″ Galvanized Steel | 1″ Galv. Steel | 1″ Galv. Steel | 1″ Galv. Steel |
| Valve Body | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass |
| Rod Material | 3/8″ Stainless Steel | 3/8″ Stainless Steel | 3/8″ Stainless Steel | 3/8″ Stainless Steel |
| Max. Working Pressure | 125 psi | 125 psi | 125 psi | 125 psi |
| Max. Temperature | 120°F | 120°F | 120°F | 120°F |
| Flow Finder/Lock | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Made in USA | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Approx. Weight (lbs) | 17 | 19 | 22 | 24 |
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Conclusion
The Woodford Y34 is a trusted staple in outdoor plumbing, renowned for its freeze-resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance. Whether you operate a rural farm, municipal park, or simply want worry-free winter water access in your backyard, the Y34 provides unmatched reliability. Choosing the right model and following best installation and care practices will give you years of trouble-free service of this American-made yard hydrant.
FAQ
-
What is a Woodford Y34 yard hydrant used for?
A Woodford Y34 is an outdoor, frost-proof hydrant designed to supply water in freezing conditions. Common uses include watering livestock, irrigation, outdoor cleaning, and filling equipment on farms, gardens, or remote locations. -
Why is the Woodford Y34 considered ‘freezeless’?
Its design automatically drains water below the frost line every time the hydrant is shut off (and hoses are removed), preventing water from freezing inside and damaging the hydrant. -
Can the Woodford Y34 supply drinking water?
No. The Y34 is not certified as “lead-free” for potable water systems and should only be used for irrigation or other non-potable applications. -
How do I select the right bury depth (model) for my climate?
Choose a model matching or exceeding your local frost line depth. For example, if the frost line is 3 feet deep, select the Y34-3 or deeper (Y34-4, Y34-5) to ensure freeze protection. -
Is the Woodford Y34 difficult to install?
No, installation is straightforward for DIYers or professionals. Key steps include ensuring proper drainage, burying the hydrant below the frost line, and stabilizing the unit. Follow the provided installation instructions carefully. -
How do I keep my Y34 from freezing in winter?
Always remove any attached hoses after use—the hydrant cannot drain and prevent freezing if a hose or device is left on the nozzle. Ensure the drain hole and drain field remain clear. -
Can I repair my Woodford Y34 without unearthing it?
Yes, most regular repairs—such as replacing the plunger or packing—can be performed from the top of the hydrant without excavating it from the ground. -
What should I do if my Y34 yard hydrant is leaking from the handle stem?
First, try tightening the packing nut slightly. If the leak persists, turn off the water supply, remove the handle/head, and replace the packing according to the user guide. -
What maintenance does the Y34 require?
Regular inspection for leaks, clearing debris from the drain field, ensuring the handle snaps shut crisply, and periodic exercising of the hydrant are recommended. Replace parts like packing as wear occurs. -
Are parts and repair kits readily available for the Y34?
Yes. Replacement parts and repair kits (such as RK-Y34) are widely available; all repairs can be carried out above ground, and component design has remained consistent for decades, ensuring support for older models.