Rainwater barrel technology is experiencing a rise in popularity. The concept is inexpensive and very simple. A wooden or plastic rain barrel helps you collect and store rain water that would normally runoff your house and into storm drainage systems. Rainwater eventually ends up in streams. Rain water barrels offer you an opportunity to use this water for your outdoor watering needs. Rain is our planet’s most abundant natural resource. By trapping and using this valuable resource you are decreasing your dependency on water supply companies while also saving yourself some money. You are also helping your county and state by reducing its need to build more water treatment facilities for the rain water.
Supplies Needed
Rain barrel – 55 gallon or larger
Vinyl hose – to access water
PVC coupling – to attach hose
Screen grate – to keep out bugs and small creatures
The assembly of these few supplies is simple and can be found on the internet. The barrel is then placed directly under one of the gutters on your home. You can access the water easily for watering plants or even to wash your car. Rainwater is clean and chemical free which makes it ideal for growing a vegetable garden and fruit trees. Please understand that water from rain barrels is not recommended for drinking. It is estimated that households can easily save around 1,300 gallons of rainwater during a rainy season. This is especially helpful for areas that deal with long periods of drought.
You can find the supplies listed above at any hardware store or garden center. The cost is minimal to get it started but the rewards are numerous. If you live in an area that sees an abundance of rainfall at certain times of the year, you may want to set up numerous rainbarrels and save even more water. Many communities are offering resources to people who are interested in setting up a rainwater barrel water conservation system. There are also many online resources on how to build and maintain a good water harvesting system.
There are other types of rain water harvesting systems on the market. Some will require very little upkeep. Others require more equipment and maintenance. Be sure you know what is involved in the project as well as what it will take to maintain its function and quality.
