Create
a Rain Barrel Collection System
By Alisa
Kane
 |
 |
| Figure
1 |
Figure
2 |
 |
 |
| Figure
3 |
Figure
4 |
 |
 |
| Figure
5 |
Figure
6 |
 |
|
| Figure
7 |
|
Collecting
the rain that rolls off your roof to use in the garden preserves natural
resources and saves money on your water bill. One affordable way to
capture hundreds of gallons
of rainwater every year is to make and install rain barrels from simple
plumbing fixtures and recycled food grade containers.
Instructions
Depending on the type of barrel and location of your downspout, determine
how you will route water from the downspout into the barrel. If your
barrel does not have a screw-off lid, there is a plastic downspout
adapter and flexible gutter attachments that can be purchased that
will help transition the downspout into the screw plug (or bung) on
top of the barrel. Search the Internet for examples of different ways
to outfit your particular rain barrel.
The following
instructions are for use on an open top container with a removable
lid and screw ring for closure.
1. Use a 1” spade bit to drill approximately 15 holes in a circular
pattern into the top of the lid (figure 1). Cut the screen material
to fit over the lid and then sandwich the screen netting between the
lid and the barrel (figure 2).
2. Straddle the barrel on its side so it cannot roll. Create an opening
for the overflow spigot by drilling a 1” hole into the side of
the barrel, approximately 4” down from the top (figure 3). Swivel
the barrel approximately 3/4 turn. Drill another 1” hole for
the water-dispensing spigot approximately 3” to 4” from
the bottom of the barrel.
3.
Wrap the threads of both hose bibs with Teflon tape, then wind ends
into the holes, placing a washer between the spigot and the outside
of the barrel. Reaching into the barrel (figure 4) spread a bead of
silicon around each opening and secure the hose bibs with a washer,
then a locknut. Gently tighten the locknuts with an adjustable wrench
to secure the hose bibs.
4. Level two concrete blocks underneath the downspout (figure 5). Remove
square shoe (if applicable). Mark where you will need to trim the
downspout (with or without square shoe) so it sits approximately 2”
from the top of the barrel. Trim downspout with hacksaw. Reattach
square shoe to downspout and secure to house with clincher strap.
Use extra blocking to support the downspout if it sits away from of
the wall.
5.
Install rain barrel under downspout, making sure that the barrel is
level and comfortably sitting on both blocks (figure 6).
6. Attach hose section to overflow spigot, turn to the “on”
position, and direct hose end away from foundation (figure 7).
7.
After rainfall, fill watering can using the bottom spigot. Water plants
at will and enjoy the free water!
If you
don’t feel like making your own? There are several local manufacturers
and suppliers that sell pre-fabricated rain barrels. Try Portland
Rain Barrel Company at www.portlandrainbarrels.com or The Urban Rain
Barrel™ at www.urbangardencenter.com.
Supply
List
Most of these items can be found at plumbing/hardware stores, such
as A-Boy or Winks.
One 50 to 55-gal food grade plastic barrel (can be found on Craigslist or restaurant suppliers). Two hose bibs with 3/4” threaded inlet
and 3/4” male hose end. Two 3/4” galvanized locknuts to
secure spigot from the inside of the barrel. Four 1” (opening)
washers to provide rigid surface to fasten hose bib. Six 1’ or
longer section of garden hose with female end. Teflon tape, silicon
adhesive, two 8” x 8” x 12” concrete blocks, window
screen netting (enough to cover the barrel top), downspout adapter,
square shoe (directs water to splash block), elbow, or flexible gutter
attachment (to route the downspout to the barrel), clincher strap
(attaches downspout to house), small pieces of wood blocking to use
behind clincher strap (if necessary).
Tools
Drill, 1” spade bit, tin snips or heavy-duty scissors for cutting
screen, hack saw for trimming downspout, adjustable wrench with at
least 1” capacity, utility knife, safety glasses.
Tips
Make sure your design keeps mosquitoes, pets, and children out of
the water.
The water from the rain barrel should never be used for drinking.
Direct the overflow hose away from your foundation.
Clean out the water and check the rain barrel for leaks at least once
a year.
During cold weather, you may want to drain the rain barrel and direct
the water away from the house using a flexible downspout attachment.
Alisa
Kane is a consultant and freelance writer specializing in sustainable
development. Contact her through www.greenwaysplanning.com.
|
