Collect rainwater from your roof into a rain barrel.
Diverting water from your gutters into a rain barrel allows you to save on water costs and prepare for droughts. In a simple rain barrel system, you just dip water out of the barrel whenever you need it. More complex systems allow you to use a spigot or drip irrigation to water your outside plants. Use rainwater with your houseplants, too, especially if you chemically soften your water---the sodium from water softeners is bad for houseplants. Modify your house's current gutters and downspouts to divert rain into a rain barrel. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Prepare a level, sturdy surface close to or underneath the gutter's downspout. When the barrel is full of water it will be prone to tipping, so you must make it secure. Use paving stones or perfectly level concrete blocks. BobVila.com also recommends using Class 5 driveway gravel.
2. Remove and cut sections of the downspout as needed to bring the diverter end above the level of the rain barrel. Plastic downspout pieces may be cut with a fine-tooth saw. Metal downspouts may be cut with a reciprocating saw.
3. Reinstall the shortened diverter.
4. Place the rain barrel on the prepared pad.
5. Install the screened cover kit on the rain barrel, following the instructions that come with the kit.
6. Double-check that everything is level and secure.
Tags: rain barrel, into rain barrel, from your, into rain