Roll out the Rain Barrel

Looking for a quick and easy DIY project that will save you some cash and help the Earth? Spend an afternoon installing a rain barrel to collect fresh rainwater to use to water your lawn, wash your car, give your dog a bath, or anything else you’d use water from your outdoor spigot for.

Wondering how much water you’d save? One-quarter inch of rain falling on a 1,000-square-foot roof can result in up to 150 gallons of conserved rainwater. 

Installing a rain barrel is a relatively easy do-it-yourself project. Exact procedures will vary by manufacturer, but keep these general tips in mind:

• Install the rain barrel at a downspout closest to the area of your yard where you will be using the water.


• Secure the barrel to keep it from tipping over, and position the overflow hose so it drains excess water away from the foundation of your home.


• Keep mosquitos away by caulking any gaps and using collected water regularly.

A rain barrel can only collect water if your gutters and downspouts are working well, so make sure yours are in tip-top shape. Clear any debris or clutter that could cause gutters to back up or overflow, then install gutter guards, like Frost King’s Vinyl Snap-In Gutter Screens , to keep gutters from filling up with gunk.