When choosing a rain barrel, you first need to determine how much water you hope or expect to capture. Most rain barrels have a 60 gallon capacity, but you can also find larger barrels on the market.
Regardless of the size that you choose, try to to seek out a model with a mesh screen at the top of the barrel. This will help to filter out debris and prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the water – a worthwhile feature indeed.
Also, worth seeking out: a barrel with a built in spigot on the side, so that you can attach a hose or fill up things like watering cans and wash buckets.
- One-inch of rainfall on a 1,000 square-foot roof generates 623 gallons of runoff
- In the summer, 40% of a typical household's water use goes to watering gardens and lawns
1. To prevent injury to children and pets, ensure that the tops of your rain barrels are kept securly in place, and that the barrels can not be overturned easily.
2. Indoor rainwater use is not permitted in all areas. Check with your local goverment before making any alterations to your indoor plumbing.
Do you use rain barrels?
1) Yes
2) No
3) No, but I'd like to get some.
