How to Make Rain Saver Barrels

Rain barrels are an efficient way to reduce the amount of water that you use.

A rain barrel is an inexpensive way to capture and reuse rain water. Although rain water is not safe to drink, there are many situations in which it is highly suitable. You can use collected rainwater to wash your car or your lawn furniture. It is also an environmentally sound way to water your grass or your garden. In drought-prone areas, every drop of water is valuable and a rain barrel ensures that you are utilizing every bit of water that you are able to capture.

Things You'll Need

• Rain barrel or garbage can
• Plastic tubing
• Fine mesh screen
• Tight-fitting lid

Instructions

1. Purchase or reuse a rain barrel. You can also use a large plastic drum or garbage can. You want your rain barrel to be large enough to hold 50 or more gallons of water. Place the rain barrel near your downspout.

2. Shorten your downspout or simply use plastic tubing to reroute the water from your downspout to your rain barrel.

3. Cut a fine meshed screen to fit the top of your rain barrel. This will filter leaves and trash from your water.

4. Add a tight-fitting lid to the top of your rain barrel. This will block light and keep children and pets from getting into your water barrel.

5. Install another set of tubing to redirect any excess water away from your home's foundation.

6. Monitor your system regularly to ensure that there are no leaks and that all of your tubing is working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your landlord or homeowner's association to make sure it is not against any regulations to set up your rain barrel.

• Rainwater is not suitable for drinking unless it is treated.

References

• You Grow Girl: Save It for a Sunny Day
• King County Government: Water Saving in the Garden
• King County Government: Rain Barrel Information and Sources