A rain barrel is a container designed to collect and store rainwater runoff, typically captured from a roof via a downspout. This practice of rainwater harvesting offers a practical way to conserve municipal water resources and reduce stormwater runoff from your property. Implementing a rain barrel system involves proper installation, daily use, essential upkeep, and seasonal preparation. Understanding these procedures ensures the longevity of the system and the safe application of the collected water.
Setting Up Your Rain Collection System
The initial placement of your rain barrel requires a location that is both level and near a downspout that receives substantial runoff. The ground beneath the barrel must be stable, and it is recommended to create a solid foundation using concrete blocks, bricks, or a sturdy wooden platform. Because a single gallon of water weighs approximately 8.3 pounds, a full 50-gallon barrel can easily exceed 400 pounds, requiring a robust support structure to prevent tipping or sinking.
It is beneficial to elevate the barrel using this foundation, which allows gravity to assist in water flow when using the spigot or connecting a hose for irrigation. The next step involves modifying the downspout, either by cutting it to allow the barrel to sit directly underneath or by installing a downspout diverter kit. A diverter channels water into the barrel while allowing excess flow to bypass the system once the barrel is full.
Managing overflow is necessary to prevent water from pooling near your home’s foundation, which can cause structural damage. An overflow outlet near the top of the barrel should be connected to a hose or pipe that directs excess water safely away from the building. Before the system is connected, make sure to install a fine mesh screen or filter at the water inlet to block large debris like leaves and shingle grit from entering the storage container.
Best Practices for Using Collected Water
Collected rainwater is considered non-potable. This water may contain contaminants from roofing materials, such as heavy metals or asphalt particles, as well as bacteria from bird droppings and environmental pollution. Consequently, the water should be reserved for outdoor and non-contact applications.
The most common use is for watering ornamental plants, flower beds, trees, and lawns, as the water is typically less acidic and free of the chlorine found in municipal tap water. Other suitable applications include washing vehicles, rinsing off outdoor equipment, and cleaning walkways.
When using the water on edible gardens, take precautions to prevent the water from touching the harvestable portion of the plant. Applying the water directly to the soil via drip irrigation or at the base of the plant minimizes the risk of contamination. Using the collected water promptly is also advised, ideally within a week or two, to discourage the development of mosquito larvae and to ensure the barrel is ready for the next rainfall.
Essential Maintenance and Winterization
A key concern is pest control, as stagnant water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. All openings, including the inlet and overflow, should be secured with a fine mesh screen to physically block insects from entering. For proactive control, a small amount of commercially available Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) can be added to the water. Bti is a naturally occurring bacterium that targets and kills mosquito larvae without harming plants, pets, or people.
Annual or semi-annual cleaning is recommended to remove sediment that naturally builds up at the bottom of the barrel. This process involves completely draining the barrel, disconnecting it, and rinsing the interior with a hose and a mild, biodegradable cleaning solution to scrub away debris. Allowing this sediment to accumulate reduces the barrel’s storage capacity and can eventually clog the spigot or overflow outlet.
Before the first hard freeze, the rain barrel system must be winterized to prevent damage from expanding ice. The entire barrel must be drained completely, disconnected from the downspout diverter, and thoroughly dried. If possible, store the barrel indoors in a shed or garage; if outdoor storage is necessary, the barrel should be turned upside down to prevent any rain or snowmelt from collecting inside.