How to Install Your Rain Barrel

Step 1: Choose where to install your rain barrel

Find a location near a rain gutter down spout.

Look for places where water can overflow from the rain barrel and be diverted to your garden.

Step 2: Place your barrel on a stable, raised surface

Use a level to prepare the ground and to align the base. This will ensure the barrel is stable.

Choose materials to elevate your rain barrel such as cinder bricks or a constructed base to allow gravity to assist your irrigation with saved water.

Secure the rain barrel with metal/all-weather earthquake straps and secure to the building.

Step 3: Install the downspout

Your downspout will likely need to be shortened and have pieces or elbows added.

Identify where your downspout needs to be shortened and cut as needed, using a hacksaw.

Attach the elbow(s) over the downspout.

If your down spout connects to a subsurface drainage system you will need to install a diverter.

Step 4: Do a test run

Run some water through your gutters with a hose into the rain barrel to check for any issues.

Advantages to Saving the Rain

Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and using rainwater that falls onto your rooftop or other hard surfaces to water your garden, wash your car or even your pets. Since rain is so rare in our region, rainwater harvesting is a great way to reduce demand on our drinking water system.

Rain barrels can be a start to your landscapes transformation from a water guzzling garden to a water efficient landscape. The storage and later use of free rain water contributes both to a beautiful garden and minimizing stormwater runoff. By capturing stormwater on your property you reduce drainage to streets and storm drains, which ultimately drain into local streams and then the ocean.