Installing a rain barrel system is a practical way to lower your water bill and create a sustainable garden irrigation source.
Key Takeaways
- A rainwater harvesting system captures runoff from your roof, reducing stormwater pollution and providing free water for landscaping.
- Proper rain barrel installation requires a level foundation, a diverter kit to prevent overflow, and regular maintenance to ensure water quality.
- You can choose between a DIY rain barrel made from a drum or a pre-made commercial kit depending on your budget and aesthetic preference.
Although the idea of capturing storm runoff might sound technical, setting up a rain barrel is a straightforward weekend project that pays off immediately. We love this project because it allows you to reduce your reliance on municipal resources, lower your monthly costs, and provide your plants with water that is free of the chemicals found in tap water. Whether you want to build your own system or install a pre-made kit, collecting rainwater for garden use is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for both your wallet and the environment.
Why You Should Start Collecting Rainwater Now
Many homeowners overlook the volume of water their roof sheds during a single storm. A typical 1,000-square-foot roof can yield approximately 600 gallons of water from just one inch of rain. Even capturing a small portion of that can noticeably cut how much tap water you use outside, which directly lowers your water bill during the growing season. By easing the load on your downspouts and local storm drains, a rain barrel acts as part of your home’s overall water management system, not just a garden accessory.
Beyond the financial savings, your plants will thank you. Rainwater is naturally soft and free of the chlorine and fluoride found in municipal supplies, making it ideal for a sustainable garden. Additionally, diverting water away from your foundation helps protect your home’s structural integrity by preventing soil erosion and water damage around the base of your house.
To give you an idea of the potential impact, we’ve broken down the volume you could be harvesting:
| Roof Size | Rainfall Event | Potential Harvest |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | 1 inch | ~600 gallons |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | 1 inch | ~900 gallons |
Choosing the Best Rain Barrel System for Your Home
When selecting a system, you need to balance your budget, your DIY skills, and the aesthetics of your home. The market offers everything from utilitarian plastic drums to decorative urns that blend seamlessly with your landscaping. If you live in an HOA community, check your rules; some require rain barrels to be screened, placed behind a fence, or painted to match the house.
Commercial Kits vs. DIY Solutions
If you prefer convenience, commercial kits are the way to go. They come pre-drilled with spigots, screens, and overflow valves installed, making them a true plug-and-play solution. However, if you are handy and want to save money, building a DIY rain barrel is a popular option. This usually involves sourcing a food-grade 55 gallon rain barrel drum and purchasing a hardware kit. While the DIY route is cheaper, it requires specific tools like hole saws and a bit more time to assemble.
Essential Accessories: Diverters and Stands
A barrel sitting flat on the ground won’t be very effective. You need a sturdy rain barrel stand to elevate the container, which uses gravity to create water pressure for your hose. Equally important is the rain barrel diverter. This device connects your downspout to the barrel, sending water into the tank until it is full. Once the barrel reaches capacity, the diverter automatically routes water back down the downspout, preventing the barrel from overflowing right next to your house.
Capacity and Sizing
One barrel might fill up faster than you expect. If your garden uses about 50–100 gallons each time you water, a single 55-gallon barrel may only cover a couple of deep waterings between storms. We recommend linking multiple barrels together to create a larger rainwater harvesting system. Most residential systems start with 50 to 60 gallons, but daisy-chaining barrels allows you to store hundreds of gallons for use during dry spells.
How to Install a Rain Barrel in 5 Steps
Proper rain barrel installation ensures your system is safe, stable, and effective. We’ve outlined these steps to help you get your system up and running.
- Prepare the Ground: Choose a location near a downspout and level the ground. Place your rain barrel stand on concrete pavers or compacted gravel to ensure it won’t tip over when the barrel is heavy with water.
- Measure and Cut the Downspout: **Hold** your diverter kit against the downspout to determine the correct height. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to mark where you need to cut or drill into the downspout.
- Install the Diverter: Insert the rain barrel diverter into the downspout. Ensure it fits snugly to capture water while allowing debris to pass through the main spout if designed to do so.
- Connect the Barrel: Attach the flexible fill hose from the diverter to the intake port on your rain barrel. Make sure the hose is not kinked and has a slight downward slope toward the barrel.
- Test the System: Once everything is connected, use a garden hose to run water onto your roof or directly into the gutter to check for leaks. Tighten any hose clamps or seals if you see dripping.
Maintenance and Winterization
A rain barrel is not a “set it and forget it” appliance. Regular upkeep ensures the water remains clean and the hardware lasts for years. Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged spigots or cracked barrels.
Routine Maintenance
You should periodically clear debris from the intake screen to prevent clogging. It is also vital to check for mosquitoes, as standing water can become a breeding ground. Ensure all screens are intact and consider using organic larvicide dunks (often made with Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, or Bti), which are safe for plants and pets, to keep pests under control.
How to Winterize Your Rain Barrel
If you live in a region where temperatures drop below freezing, you must winterize your system to prevent ice from cracking the plastic barrel or splitting the spigot. First, drain the barrel completely and leave the spigot open. Next, remove the diverter from the downspout and install a winter cap to close the opening. Finally, store the barrel upside down in a garage or shed, or cover it securely if it must stay outdoors.
Start Harvesting Rainwater and Saving Today
Whether you opt for a sleek commercial rain barrel kit or build your own custom setup, taking control of your water usage is a rewarding utility decision. You will see the difference in your water bill and the health of your garden almost immediately. By installing a system this weekend, you’re taking a tangible step toward a more self-reliant and eco-friendly home.
FAQs About Rain Barrels
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About the Author
LaLeesha has a Masters degree in English and enjoys writing whenever she has the chance. She is passionate about gardening, reducing her carbon footprint, and protecting the environment.