The concept for the Bar-Bar-A Horse and Cattle Drinker was in inspired in winter of 1982. Frank Frodsham had 3 animals that would not eat or drink. He had just installed the newest electrically heated horse waterer, to prevent freezing in the winter months. The veterinarian was called in and he could not diagnose the symptoms. While discussing the problem the veterinarian’s assistant stuck his finger in the watering unit and got SHOCKED! The electric waterer had been shocking the horses every time they tried to take a drink. With the problem understood Frank setout to discover a solution. Frank not only discovered a solution but he developed a completely new paradigm for watering horses and cattle.

The concept utilized the same principle used with frost-free hydrants. This principle uses water pressure to direct the course of water flow. When activated the water flows in the direction of the spigot. When de-activated the remaining water in the pipe is directed to a drain field below the ground. Using this same idea the Bar-Bar-A provides fresh water when the animal pushes with its nose on a paddle. When the animal has finished drinking the valve is turned off and the remaining water in the bowl and pipe are directed to the drain field below ground level. Animals learn quickly how to create water flow.

Today, over twenty years later, the Bar-Bar-A concept remains the same. What has changed is the quality in raw materials used and the streamlining of the manufacturing process. The Drinkers are designed so as to be maintenance free for the customer and easy to service when needed. Designed with only one moving part, the wear and tear on the units are minimal.

We have coined the term “Drinker” and prefer it to the word “Waterer” because “Drinker” connotes action on the part of the animal and is moving in nature. The Bar-Bar-A requires the animal to activate the unit just as a drinking fountain for humans requires the same. Other waterers available or buckets and livestock tanks, are passive in nature. They supply water that is stationary. Without movement, water collects algae and slime making the water foul tasting. The water in this scenario also takes on heat and cold in the extreme climates making the water a chore to drink rather than a delight. Bar-Bar-A proudly touts its ability to help keep animals healthier because there is never any standing water in the drinking bowl. Since the water comes from below the frost line the water is delivered warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. The animals drink more in both seasons resulting in the better health of the animal.

With the deadly effects of West Nile Virus the Bar-Bar-A concept is ever more relevant. Mosquitoes, the known carriers of this disease, thrive in areas that host stagnant water. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water and the larvae later hatch from the same area. With no standing water offered, mosquitoes look elsewhere for laying eggs.

In the year 2000 Bar-Bar-A was purchased from the inventor Frank Frodsham by Global Diversified, Inc., DBA Bar-Bar-A Equipment Company. The company’s goal is to acquire products that will help simplify the lives of customers and create a healthier and safer environment for animals.

Currently Bar-Bar-A offers two models for distribution. Model 3500 is a non-insulated unit and the model 4400 is an insulated unit. The 3500 is made for warmer climates or areas that are fully enclosed. Typically the Southwest and Gulf states use this model.

The 4400 is our insulated unit and has built into the system an insulated barrier. This insulator barrier keeps the warm air below the frost line from chimneying out the topside of the unit. Typically these models are used for climates that have frost lines 2 feet and greater.

Installation is as easy as digging a hole and connecting the source waterline with the Bar-Bar-A water line. There are specific steps involved and every unit comes with a step by step installation instruction guide. Customers also have available an installation hotline that can be accessed if needed.