Residential Rain Harvesting: The Basics of Using a Rain Barrel at Home (Guest Blogger Megan Cooper)

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Residential Rain Harvesting: The Basics of Using a Rain Barrel at Home

Whether you live in an area where rain is scarce or abundant, harvesting rainwater is an excellent way to benefit the environment and cut down on your water bill. By using rain barrels at home, you can recycle gallons upon gallons of water to wash your vehicles, water your garden, and do many other everyday activities.

If you’re interested in rain harvesting but are unsure where to start, you have come to the right place! Consider these essential tips for using rain barrels to save water and money:

Make a Rain Barrel     

There are plenty of rain barrel kits on the market, but it is also easy to create DIY barrels. All you need is a 55-gallon barrel or drum made of food-grade plastic. And you need to choose where to put your rain barrel; most homeowners put their barrels under a downspout.

Once you have a barrel, drill a five-inch hole about four inches above the base for draining. Then, drill another hole near the top for overflow water. You will need to install spigots in the drain and overflow holes, along with washers and sealant.

Attach the Rain Barrel to a Downspout

To ensure the downspout fits in the lid of your rain barrel, you will need to make a hole in the lid and make any necessary adjustments to the downspout. For example, you may need to make the downspout shorter or install an elbow at the end.

To minimize contaminants in your water supply, use a window screen, landscape fabric, or any other material that can filter out debris to line the inside of the barrel. Most rain barrels already have a lid; otherwise, you can use a trash can lid or a wood slab as a covering.

Keep Your Gutters Clean    

Once you have created your rain barrel, it’s time to set yourself up for accessible rainwater collection. One of the most important steps is to clear out your gutters and keep them clean. It’s best to inspect your gutters bi-annually and to remove any sticks, leaves, dirt, and other debris.

Having your gutters inspected will also reveal whether any replacements or repairs are needed. Using resources like Angi is the easiest way to find the best gutter pros in your area because it lets you compare rates, available discounts, and reviews. Search “roof and gutter cleaning near me” to evaluate local pros.

Many residents in the bay area fail to keep up with gutter maintenance because it generally only rains heavily during winter, which leaves minimal debris and moisture in gutters. But this poses a problem for our solar customers: Solar panels collect moisture year-round, and that moisture can trickle into gutters with debris block if from draining out and eventually cause rust and corrosion.

Regularly Empty and Clean the Rain Barrel

Finally, don’t allow collected rainwater to remain in your barrel for longer than one week. Remember to empty your barrel regularly, and clean it out at least once a year. All you have to do is disconnect the barrel and leave it upside down on the ground to drain out. Then, rinse and clean the inside and outside of the barrel, and use soapy water and cleaning supplies to finish the job. Let the barrel dry, and you’re good to go!

If you want to play your part in saving the planet while also lowering your water bill, harvesting rainwater is an excellent way to do it. Follow the tips above to create a rain barrel, maintain your gutters, and clean your barrel regularly. When it’s time to wash your car and water your garden, you won’t regret the time and effort!

-Article by Megan Cooper of reallifehome.net

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