Building a rain barrel:

As we mentioned in our previous blog, drinking rainwater is something that is extremely safe and a great step toward helping your family live a more eco-friendly life style. But, some may wonder, what is the best way to collect rainwater? Simple: A rain barrel. This is a device that catches that rainwater for you. A rain barrel can either be built or bought from a water conservation company such as our own, at rainharvest.com.

Rainwater that is collected in a rain barrel before it hits the ground is free of many contaminants that water picks up as it soaks into the soil. This soft, warm-water is perfect for plants, lawns, and many other outdoor applications.

Collecting rainwater in rain barrels can save thousands of gallons of tap water every single year. A typical 40-by- 40-foot roof is capable of collecting 1,000 gallons of water from only one inch of rain. A large rainwater collection system that squeezes every drop from your roof can provide most, if not all, of the water used throughout your home.

So, if DIY projects are your thing, here’s a step by step process to creating your own Rain barrel for your home:

Tools and Materials
• Drill/driver
• Screwdriver
• Hack saw
• Rain barrel
• Hose & fittings
• Base material (pavers)
• Downspout adapter and extension
• Teflon tape

1. Select a location for the barrel under a downspout. Locate your barrel as close to the area you want to irrigate as possible. Make sure the barrel has a stable, level base.
2. Install the spigot. Some kits may include a second spigot for filling watering cans. Use Teflon® tape at all threaded fittings to ensure a tight seal. Connect the overflow tube, and make sure it is pointed away from the foundation.
3. Cut the downspout to length with a hacksaw. Reconnect the elbow fitting to the downspout using sheet-metal screws. Attach the cover to the top of the rain barrel. Some systems include a cover with porous wire mesh, to which the downspout delivers water. Others include a cover with a sealed connection (next step).
4. Link the downspout elbow to the rain barrel with a length of flexible downspout extension attached to the elbow and the barrel cover.
Variation: If your barrel comes with a downspout adapter, cut away a segment of downspout and insert the adapter so it diverts water into the barrel.
5. Connect a drip irrigation tube or garden hose to the spigot. A Y-fitting will let you feed the drip irrigation system through a garden hose when the rain barrel is empty.
6. If you want, increase water storage by connecting two or more rain barrels together with a linking kit, available from many kit suppliers.

So, to sum it all up, building your own rain barrel can seem a little intimidating at first. But do not let this fear stop you from conserving water in your home! With our simple guidelines, you’ll be building rain barrels like a pro in no time.