How to Harvest the Rain
June 3, 2009 – 6:27 pm by MarinaHanes
Rain barrels or rainwater tanks have many benefits such as recharging groundwater and saving your faucet water. If you already know the advantages, now it’s time to setup a rain harvesting system for your home. Even if you don’t need to use the water for your garden or landscaping, you can store the rainwater so you have it on hand in case of an emergency.
Take Measurements
First, you need to determine what size of barrel will be sufficient. If you are planning to use the water for your plants and crops, a 65- to 85-gallon rain barrel is enough. However, for storage purposes, a 150-gallon barrel is best. Keep in mind that larger barrels can be 35 feet or taller, so it’s important to consider the barrel’s capacity and height.
There are 55-gallon food-grade drums available too, which can be a good starting point. Although these will require some work and extra parts, they are sometimes cheaper but just as effective.
Turn a Simple Drum into a Rain Barrel
Finding a new drum is best, because plastic drums that have stored aromatic foods and drinks can absorb those odors over time. However, whether you have a new or used drum, make sure to wash it out thoroughly.
To work with a food-grade drum, you will need the following items:
- metal downspout
- piece of fine mesh netting
- water spigot
- hand drill
- caulking
- cinder blocks
Use cinder blocks to create a platform for the tank to rest on (eight to ten blocks might be enough). This extra height will make it easier to use the spigot, which you will have to install, and the foundation will also provide level ground so the barrel doesn’t tip over.
For the barrel to work effectively, two holes should be drilled into it. Put one near the bottom for the water spigot, and the other goes in the barrel’s lid. To prevent water leaking, caulking can be used to seal the water spigot onto the barrel.
The hole in the lid will provide an entrance for the water to run off of your house’s downspout and into this opening. To prevent insects and debris from contaminating your water, you can place a piece of fine mesh netting over the hole in the lid.
The next time a storm knocks out the power and you’re unable to use your well water, you will appreciate your backup supply. This extra water will enable you to cook and keep up on basic hygiene.
Tags: harvest the rain, rain barrels, rainwater tank, store water