By Joan Sundeen, Master Gardener In-Training, SCMG
Rainwater is a valuable resource. Don’t let it get away! Capture it by using a rainbarrel.
What Is A Rain Barrel?
Rain barrels are vessels positioned on a downspout to capture rain runoff from the roof. There is a spigot attached near the bottom to drain the rainwater into a bucket, watering can or hose.
Why Use A Rain Barrel?
- They are an important addition to the homeowner’s efforts to manage rainwater runoff on the property.
- Rainwater is perfect for your plants. It’s fresh, soft, pH neutral and at air temperature.
- The water can be used to water gardens, lawns, containers and birdbaths.
- Many municipalities prohibit rainwater from downspouts and sumps from entering the storm water system.
- Properties are often covered with hardscaping such as walkways and patios where the ground cannot absorb rainwater.
- Rain barrels collect and store rainwater for future use reducing the use of treated city water and expensive water and utility bills.
- It is estimated that 40% of domestic water use in the summer goes to lawns and gardens . As much as 1300 gallons of treated water can be saved.
- 1/4 inch of rainwater per square foot of roof can fill a large rain barrel.
How Do They Work?
For detailed instructions on settling up and using a rain barrel system, go to www.Lowes.com/n/how-to/buying-and-installing-and-using-a-rain-barrel .
Rain barrels are widely available from big box stores and online, ranging in price from $100. to $250.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada has a YouTube video that you can check out called Rain Barrel How To. They tell us that floods have replaced fires as the leading cause of damage to homes and advise that the overflow outlet must be at least two metres (three is better) away from the foundation of the house.
One environmentally-friendly rain barrel to consider:
This rain barrel is a re-purposed, food-grade plastic type. It was originally used to transport olives or oils and has been cleaned and fitted with a faucet near the base. It has a wide screen at the top that catches debris from roof runoff without plugging the opening.
Have a look at UpCycle Canada’s Homepage on Facebook.
What about mosquitoes?
Most rain barrels come with a screen at the opening to keep out insects and small animals.
What do I do with the rainbarrel in the winter?
Completely drain your rain barrel and store for the winter. Re-intall your downspout to redirect any meltwater that may occur on mild winter days.
Can a pump be installed in a rain barrel?
Solar pumps are available in a variety of sizes and costs. They can save a lot of effort and time in getting water to your plants. As the water level drops in the barrel, pressure lessens and watering cans take longer to fill. A pump can be a great idea.
Rain barrels are an important addition to the homeowner’s efforts to manage rainwater runoff. Let’s keep rainwater on our properties!
Image credits:
www.pinterest.com/pin/6000-rain-barrels-for-the-rouge
www.amazon.ca/Upscale-55-Gallon-Gray-Barrel
