A water butt, also known as a rain barrel, is a simple container designed for rainwater harvesting. This process captures precipitation that falls onto a roof and directs it into the storage vessel, rather than allowing it to run into the ground drainage system. Collecting rainwater is a practical step toward water conservation, reducing demand on municipal supplies. Furthermore, this natural water is generally better for plants than treated tap water because it is soft, slightly acidic, and free of chemicals, promoting healthier growth.
Key Components of a Rainwater Harvesting System
The foundation of the collection setup is the butt itself, a large container typically made of plastic. These containers come in various sizes, with common models holding around 120 liters, though larger tanks can store up to 300 liters or more. The butt is usually elevated on a stand, allowing space beneath the integrated tap to fill a watering can. A lid is placed securely on top to prevent debris and insects from entering the water and minimize evaporation. The downpipe rain diverter is the most functional component, fitted into the home’s downpipe to interrupt the natural flow of water and redirect it horizontally into the butt via a connecting hose.
The Step-by-Step Collection Process
The collection cycle begins when precipitation lands on the roof and is channeled into the gutter system, which then feeds the water down the vertical downpipe. As the water descends, it encounters the rain diverter, which is installed directly into a cut section of the downpipe. The diverter uses a simple mechanism, often involving a valve or flap, to siphon a portion of the flow away from the main pipe.
This diverted water is then directed through a connecting hose and into the water butt. Many diverters incorporate a filter or screen to catch larger pieces of debris, such as leaves and moss, preventing them from contaminating the stored water. This filtration step helps maintain the quality of the collected water and prevents the tap from becoming clogged.
The diverter includes an integrated overflow mechanism that activates once the water butt is full. When the water level inside the butt reaches the height of the diverter’s inlet, internal pressure causes the excess water to automatically bypass the diversion channel. This excess volume then continues its original path down the downpipe and into the property’s drainage system.
Installation and Practical Water Retrieval
Setting up a water butt requires selecting a location near an existing downpipe and ensuring the ground is stable and level. If the butt is placed on grass or soil, it is advisable to lay a solid slab underneath to provide a firm foundation for the stand. Installation involves cutting a section out of the downpipe with a hacksaw to insert the rain diverter fitting. The diverter is positioned so that its connection point is slightly below the top of the water butt, which facilitates the overflow function.
Once the diverter is connected to the butt with the hose, the system is ready to collect water. Water retrieval is achieved by opening the tap at the base to fill a watering can or by connecting a garden hose. For applications requiring higher pressure, such as washing a car, a small pump can be used to draw water and increase the flow. Maintenance involves periodically cleaning the filter screen to remove debris. In regions with freezing temperatures, it is advisable to drain the butt during winter to prevent ice expansion.