Harvesting rainwater is a great way to conserve water and reduce your utility bills. By collecting rainwater from your roof, you can use it to water your garden, wash your car, or even flush toilets. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to install a rainwater collection system using a rain barrel and a few simple tools. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions and more expert tips in our guide.
Choosing the Right Rain Barrel
Rain barrels come in multiple materials, styles, and sizes. Consider the following factors when choosing the best one for your home.
Material
There are pros and cons to each material. Here’s what you need to know:
- Metal: Typically made from galvanized steel or aluminum, metal barrels can withstand extreme weather conditions and are less likely to crack or leak than other materials. However, they can rust over time, especially if the protective coating is damaged. Some metal barrels may impart a metallic taste to the water, which could be a concern if the collected water is used for gardening. Metal barrels are also generally heavier and more expensive than plastic alternatives.
- Plastic: Plastic rain barrels are lightweight, affordable, and widely available. They’re typically made from UV-resistant polyethylene, which helps prevent degradation from sunlight exposure. Plastic barrels are easy to modify for spigot installation and are less likely to affect water quality. However, lower-quality plastic barrels may become brittle over time, leading to cracks or leaks. They’re also more susceptible to algae growth if light penetrates the barrel.
- Wood: Often made from oak or cedar, wood barrels offer a natural, rustic aesthetic that blends well with garden settings. However, wooden barrels require more maintenance to prevent rot and leaks. They may need to be treated with a food-safe sealant for longevity. Wooden barrels can also be quite heavy, especially when full, and may be more expensive than plastic or some metal options. In the video, Cook showcases an example of upcycling a repurposed bourbon whiskey barrel.
Size
The size of your rain barrel depends on your water needs and the amount of rainfall in your area. Common sizes range from 50 to 100 gallons. Larger barrels can collect more water but may require additional support when full.
Features
Look for rain barrels with these useful features:
- Child and animal-proof lid for safety
- Debris screen to keep out leaves and insects
- Overflow valve
- Spigot for easy water access
Each of these features can make your rainwater collection system more efficient and user-friendly.
Style Options
Rain barrels come in various designs and colors to match your home’s exterior. Some even have a faux wood finish or are designed to look like decorative planters. Choosing a visually appealing option can make your rain barrel blend more seamlessly with your landscaping.
Legal and Community Considerations When Installing a Rainwater Collection System
While most states encourage rainwater collection, a few have specific guidelines or limitations. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations can help you avoid potential fines or the need to modify your system.
Before installing a rainwater collection system, research these local regulations:
- Check with your local water authority for any permit requirements.
- Check that your system complies with building codes and homeowners association rules.
- Some states have restrictions on rainwater harvesting.
Insurance and Liability
Depending on your location, installing a rainwater collection system might affect your homeowner’s insurance. Check with your insurance provider to understand any implications your system might have and see if your system is covered.
Community Engagement
Rainwater collection systems benefit individual households and can also be part of community-wide efforts to conserve water. Some neighborhoods have initiatives encouraging rainwater collection, offering workshops or subsidies for equipment. Participating in these programs can enhance your efforts and connect you with like-minded individuals.
Installing Your Rainwater Collection System
Once you’ve selected your chosen barrel, you’re ready to start installation.
Gather Your Tools
Make sure you have these tools on hand
- Aviation snips
- Drill
- Level
- Rubber mallet
Choose a Location
Select a spot near a downspout where you can easily access the collected water. Check that the area is level and can support the weight of a full rain barrel. A 50-gallon rain barrel can weigh over 400 pounds when full.
Prepare the Foundation
To elevate your rain barrel and provide a stable base, take the following steps:
- Use solid concrete barrel blocks or sturdy patio blocks.
- Arrange the blocks in a triangle formation.
- Use a level to make sure the blocks are even.
Cook demonstrates this process in the video, emphasizing the importance of a level foundation to prevent tipping and receive proper water flow. Elevating the barrel aids with water pressure, allowing gravity to help you water your garden.
Position the Rain Barrel
Making sure the barrel is secure on its foundation prevents accidents and helps you check that the system works correctly. Here’s how to do it:
- Carefully place the rain barrel on top of the blocks.
- Have the spigot face the direction where you’ll use the water.
- Double-check that the barrel is level and stable.
Modify the Downspout
Properly modifying the downspout helps the rainwater flow efficiently into the diverter and then into your rain barrel. Follow these steps:
- Disconnect and remove the existing downspout.
- Use the template provided with your water diverter to mark the necessary cuts.
- Trim the downspout using aviation snips.
- Smooth any rough edges to prevent injury.
Install the Water Diverter
The water diverter directs water into your rain barrel. Here’s how to install it:
- Attach the water diverter to the downspout elbow using self-tapping gutter screws.
- Slide the modified downspout over the diverter.
- Secure the downspout to the diverter with additional gutter screws.
Cook explains that the diverter has two outlets: one to fill the rain barrel and another to allow excess water to flow through the downspout when the barrel is full.
Connect the Hoses
Complete your rainwater collection system by connecting the hoses as follows:
- Connect a rubber hose from the diverter outlet to the rain barrel inlet.
- Secure the hose to the downspout using nylon cable ties.
- Attach a soaker hose to the rain barrel’s spigot for easy garden watering.
Using Your Collected Rainwater
Now that you’ve installed your rainwater collection system, you can use it to water your garden, wash your car, flush toilets, and more.
Watering Your Garden
Cook demonstrates how you can use collected rainwater to water your plants with a soaker hose, which allows water to seep out of the porous material at an even rate. Here’s how to install one:
- Connect a soaker hose to the rain barrel’s spigot.
- Run the hose around each plant in your garden.
- Cover the soaker hose with a layer of mulch to prevent evaporation.
Other Uses for Collected Rainwater
Beyond watering your garden, you can use collected rainwater for the following:
- Cleaning outdoor furniture and tools
- Flushing toilets (with proper filtration and plumbing modifications)
- Topping off a swimming pool
- Washing your car
Using rainwater for these purposes can significantly reduce your reliance on municipal water, in turn lowering your water bills.
Indoor Uses for Rainwater
Although outdoor uses are more common, rainwater can also be used indoors. With proper filtration and treatment, it can be used for laundry, dishwashing, or even drinking. If you consider using rainwater for indoor purposes, consult local regulations and water treatment professionals.
Maintaining Your Rainwater Collection System
Don’t neglect your rainwater collection system once it’s installed. Follow these maintenance tips to make sure it remains effective and safe to use:
- Check for leaks in the barrel and connections.
- Clean debris from gutters and downspouts regularly.
- Empty and clean the barrel before winter to prevent freezing and cracking.
- Inspect the foundation periodically to check that it remains level.
Seasonal Maintenance
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, winterize your rainwater collection system. Disconnect the barrel, drain it completely, and store it upside down to prevent any remaining water from freezing and causing cracks. In the spring, reconnect the system and check for any damage that may have occurred over winter.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with regular maintenance, you might encounter some issues. Common problems include algae growth, mosquitoes, and blockages. You can control algae by keeping the barrel in a shaded area or adding a small amount of bleach. To prevent mosquitoes, use a fine mesh screen to cover any open areas where mosquitoes could enter.
Our Conclusion
Installing a rainwater collection system is a simple yet effective way to conserve water and reduce your environmental impact. With the right equipment and a bit of effort, you can create a sustainable water source for your garden and other outdoor needs.