Greetings from Barnes Plumbing & Septic, your trusted plumbing experts with years of experience navigating the unique challenges posed by Midwest winters. We understand the importance of proactive measures to protect your home's plumbing during the chilly months. Join us as we share comprehensive seasonal plumbing tips tailored to the Midwest's weather patterns and the distinctive needs of both old and new homes. Understanding Midwest Weather Patterns Before delving into the tips, let's briefly explore the weather patterns that define the Midwest. The region experiences cold winters with temperatures often plummeting below freezing. These frigid conditions can impact both older and newer homes, albeit in different ways. Impact on Old Homes Older homes may have outdated insulation and pipes more susceptible to freezing. Understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for implementing effective preventative measures. Impact on New Homes While newer homes tend to have improved insulation, they aren't immune to plumbing issues. In extreme cold, even well-insulated pipes can freeze, emphasizing the need for comprehensive winterization. Thawing Frozen Pipes: Quick Fixes Hairdryer or Heat Gun: If a pipe is already frozen, use a hairdryer, heat gun, or portable heater to gently thaw it. Keep the water running to expedite the process. Incandescent Light or Plumbing Torch: For a more focused approach, an incandescent light or plumbing torch can be effective. Exercise caution and keep a fire extinguisher nearby when using a torch. Preventative Measures: Winterizing Your Plumbing Shut Off the Valve: Locate the valve inside your home that serves the outdoor spigot. Turn it off before sub-zero temperatures arrive. Drain any remaining water after shutting off the valve. Frostproof Spigot: Consider installing a frostproof spigot with a long shaft that keeps water inside the house, preventing freezing. Disconnect Hoses: Before freezing temperatures hit, always disconnect garden hoses. This ensures trapped water doesn't freeze and damage pipes. Additional Tips for a Cozy Winter Home Outdoor Faucet Insulators: Invest in reusable outdoor faucet insulators made of styrofoam. Secure them over spigots to insulate from the cold. Pipe Insulation: Insulate pipes, especially those in unheated areas. Evaluate your situation; insulation may not be suitable for every pipe. Heated Cable: Install a heated cable with a thermostat for pipes prone to freezing. Ensure proper insulation to maximize effectiveness. Beyond Winter: Year-Round Wisdom House Insulation: Insulate your home to prevent cold air infiltration. Replace weather stripping and use expandable foam where needed. Vacation Tips: When going on vacation, close the main water valve. Drain the system to prevent issues in your absence. Thermostat Adjustment: Keep your thermostat slightly higher during winter to prevent freezing. Long-Term Solutions: Protecting Your Home Faucet Dripping: Leave a faucet dripping during extreme cold. The constant flow makes freezing less likely. Antifreeze Use: Use RV antifreeze in drains for added protection. Ideal for vacation homes, swimming pools, and more. Cupboard Openings: Leave cupboard doors open to allow heat circulation. Use a small heater for added protection in extremely cold weather. Plumbing Peace of Mind By implementing these comprehensive seasonal plumbing tips, you're not only safeguarding your home but also ensuring plumbing peace of mind throughout the Midwest's harsh winters. Whether you reside in an old or new home, proactive measures are the key to a cozy and problem-free winter. Stay warm and worry-free with Barnes Plumbing & Septic!

Be The Good. Welcome to Barnes Plumbing & Septic, your trusted expert based out of Lathrop, MO. We bring reliable, honest, and affordable solutions to Rural Northwest Missouri and the Suburbs of North Kansas City. Be Honest. Be Kind. Be The Good. Call Us View Services Melanie Barnes, a seasoned plumber with a military background, leads Barnes Plumbing & Septic. Her mission is simple: deliver expert plumbing and septic services with clarity and integrity. Melanie's commitment to transparent communication ensures every client understands the process. We take pride in reliability, offering fair pricing, and clear communication — making us your trusted partner for plumbing solutions that stand the test of time. Meet The Owner. Talk To Melanie Fully Insured | Master-Licensed Contractors Feel free to call or text! Woman Owned/Operated Veteran Owned/Operated Family Operated What To Expect: Prompt response during business hours Emergency services available Pride in tidy work areas Transparent communication and detailed bids Commercial client discounts on specific installations Reliable Solutions We cater to a wide range of residential and commercial clients. Our services span everything from water heaters and shut-off valves to sewer line installations. If you've got plumbing needs, big or small, we've got you covered. View Services

Expert Advice: Midwest Seasonal Tips By implementing these comprehensive seasonal plumbing tips, you're not only safeguarding your home but also ensuring plumbing peace of mind throughout the Midwest's harsh winters. Whether you reside in an old or new home, you should always... Keep Reading Residential & Commercial Services Plumbing & Septic Barnes Plumbing & Septic proudly serves the community of Lathrop, MO and beyond, extending our expertise across rural NW Missouri to the neighborhoods of North KC. We understand the unique plumbing needs of our customers, valuing the importance of trust and reliability. Whether it's a residential fix or a commercial project we bring skilled professionals with master licenses to every job. Our commitment to transparent pricing ensures clarity, while discounts for educators, military, and seniors exemplify our dedication to families. Experience plumbing services that blend rural warmth with urban efficiency. Residential | Commercial Barnes Plumbing & Septic proudly serves the community of Lathrop, MO and beyond, extending our expertise across rural NW Missouri to the neighborhoods of North KC. We understand the unique plumbing needs of our customers, valuing the importance of trust and reliability. Servicing rural & urban areas of NW Missouri. Servicing rural & urban areas of NW Missouri. Residential Service Examples Shut-off Valves Water Heaters Bathroom/Kitchen Faucets Garbage Disposals Hose Bib/Spigots Toilets Shower Valves Sump/Sewage Ejection Pump Clogs Leaks Call Us We Text Too! Contact Us OWNER/OPERATOR Melanie Barnes Barnes Plumbing & Septic knows inviting a stranger into your home can leave you feeling uneasy. We believe in creating an experience where customers feel valued, understood, and at ease. Barnes Plumbing & Septic knows inviting a stranger into your home can leave you feeling uneasy. We believe in creating an experience where customers feel valued, understood, and at ease.