What Are The Best Rain Barrels?

“I’m planning to install a rain barrel system to capture rainwater for my backyard garden, but I’m overwhelmed by all the available options. I want something that’s easy to set up, low-maintenance, and will hold enough water for my plants during dry spells. Could you help me figure out what the best rain barrels are for my needs?

I have a small vegetable garden in the backyard and I live in an area that sees about 30 inches of rain annually. I also have concerns about keeping the water clean and free from contaminants. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.” Thanks, Adam, Portland, USA.

When it comes to setting up a rainwater collection system for your garden, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “What are the best rain barrels?” That’s because the answer depends on a variety of factors, including the size of your garden, your local climate, and what you’re looking for in terms of features.

Understanding the Basics of Rain Barrels

Before we look into barrel recommendations, it’s important to understand what a rain barrel is and what it does. Simply put, a rain barrel is a container designed to collect and store rainwater that runs off your roof. It’s a simple yet effective way to conserve water and reduce your water bill, all while providing a steady supply of water for your garden.

Rain barrels typically attach to downspouts or are positioned under gutters to collect runoff. A rain barrel comes with a spigot or tap that allows you to easily access the water inside. Depending on your needs, you may connect multiple barrels together to increase your storage capacity.

Why Choose a Rain Barrel?

Using a rain barrel offers several distinct advantages:

• Water Conservation: Rain barrels help you save thousands of gallons of water per year, reducing strain on local water supplies.
• Cost Savings: Harvested rainwater can be used to irrigate your plants, reducing your monthly water utility bill.
• Plant Health: Rainwater is naturally soft and doesn’t contain chlorine or other treatment chemicals found in tap water, making it gentler on your plants.
• Environmental Benefits: By capturing rainwater, you reduce stormwater runoff, which can carry pollutants into local waterways.

Key Features to Look For

When choosing a rain barrel, there are a few critical aspects to consider that can make or break your experience, especially if you’re focusing on keeping installation simple and maintenance minimal:

• Size and Capacity: Rain barrels come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 50 to 100 gallons or even larger. The size you choose should depend on the amount of rainfall you receive and how much water you need for your garden. A 50-gallon barrel might be ideal for small gardens, but if you’re dealing with a larger space or irregular rainfall, a 100-gallon option may be more suitable.
• Material: Most rain barrels are made of plastic, metal, or wood. Plastic barrels are lightweight and inexpensive, while metal barrels are more durable but pricier. Wooden barrels can offer a more rustic aesthetic but require more upkeep to prevent rot and leaks.
• Overflow Mechanism: Ensure the rain barrel comes with an overflow outlet or diverter. This feature allows excess water to flow out or be rerouted elsewhere when the barrel is full, preventing water from pooling around your home’s foundation.
• Safety Features: Rain barrels should have a secure lid to prevent debris, insects, and animals from contaminating the water. Filters and fine screens over the inlet will block leaves and twigs. If mosquitoes are a concern in your area, a fine mesh screen is essential to prevent them from using your barrel as a breeding ground.
• Spigot and Hose Compatibility: The spigot should be sturdy and easy to operate, and it should also be compatible with standard garden hoses or irrigation systems. Make sure it’s positioned high enough off the ground to fill a watering can comfortably without needing additional stands or supports.

The Best Types of Rain Barrels

Rain barrels come in several designs, each tailored to suit different needs and spaces. Let’s explore the most common types and what makes them suitable:

Standard Plastic Rain Barrels

These are by far the most popular choice among homeowners. Made from durable polyethylene, standard plastic rain barrels are lightweight, affordable, and available in various sizes and colors. Their simplicity and ease of use make them a great starting point for anyone new to rainwater harvesting, including someone like Adam.

Some models even come with built-in features like overflow valves, mesh screens, and hose connections. They also tend to be UV-resistant, meaning they can withstand exposure to sunlight without degrading over time.

Pros:

• Economical and widely available
• Easy to install and maintain
• UV-resistant options ensure longevity

Cons:

• Not as aesthetically pleasing as other materials
• May become brittle if not UV-resistant

Wooden Rain Barrels

If you’re looking for something with a bit more character, wooden rain barrels might be just what you need. These barrels are often repurposed whiskey or wine barrels, offering a rustic look that blends seamlessly into many naturalistic or vintage-themed garden designs.

However, wooden barrels require more maintenance. The wood can eventually rot or warp if left exposed to constant water or if not treated properly. Additionally, they are heavier and more challenging to move or install compared to their plastic counterparts.

Pros:

• Attractive, rustic appearance
• Durable when well-maintained

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent rot
• Heavier and more costly than plastic barrels

Metal Rain Barrels

Metal rain barrels, commonly made from stainless steel or aluminum, are highly durable and can stand up to harsh weather conditions. Because they don’t degrade under UV light, they tend to last longer than plastic or wooden barrels. Their modern, sleek designs make them an appealing option for contemporary gardens.

On the downside, metal barrels are more expensive and can be prone to rust if not properly treated. They also tend to be heavier, so installation can be more labor-intensive.

Pros:

• Exceptionally durable and long-lasting
• Resistant to UV light and weathering

Cons:

• Higher cost
• Potential for rust if not well-maintained

Advanced Features to Consider

While the basic features are essential, there are some advanced options that can really enhance the functionality and convenience of your rain barrel system:

Direct Overflow and Diverter Kits

A diverter kit can be one of the smartest investments you make in your rainwater collection system. These kits attach directly to your downspouts and channel rainwater into the barrel, with an automatic overflow system that directs excess water back down the spout or to another barrel once the primary barrel is full. Adam, in particular, might find this useful to prevent overflows during Portland’s rainy season.

Why It’s Useful:

• Prevents water from pooling around your home
• Automatically manages overflow, reducing manual intervention
• Allows for easy expansion with additional barrels

Water Level Indicators

Ever walked out to your garden only to find that your rain barrel is almost empty? A water level indicator can save you from these unwelcome surprises. These indicators can be as simple as a transparent strip on the side of the barrel or more advanced with digital readouts.

Why It’s Useful:

• Helps you monitor water levels at a glance
• Prevents accidental overuse and ensures you have enough water stored for dry periods

Multiple Connection Capabilities

Imagine a scenario where one rain barrel simply isn’t enough to cover your garden’s needs. Modern rain barrels often come with pre-installed ports designed for connecting multiple barrels together, effectively increasing your storage capacity.

Why It’s Useful:

• Allows you to easily expand your system as your garden grows
• Keeps water distributed evenly across all barrels, reducing the likelihood of overflow

Built-in Filtration Systems

To keep the water in the barrel as clean as possible, some advanced barrels come with built-in filtration systems that remove debris, sediment, and even certain contaminants before the water reaches your plants. Adam, given his concern about water quality, might find this option particularly appealing.

Why It’s Useful:

• Ensures water is free from debris and contaminants
• Reduces the buildup of sludge in the barrel

Rain Barrel Placement Tips

After choosing your rain barrel, proper placement is critical for optimizing water collection and ensuring ease of use. Here are some tips:

Choose the Right Downspout

Start by identifying the downspout that collects the most water from your roof. This will be your primary collection point. Ensure there’s enough space around the area for the barrel and any necessary stands or accessories.

Elevate Your Barrel

It’s a good idea to place your rain barrel on a stand or sturdy platform. Elevating the barrel not only makes it easier to fill watering cans but also increases the water pressure when you connect a hose.

The material of the stand should be considered carefully. Wooden stands might rot over time, especially if left in a wet environment, whereas metal or plastic supports offer greater longevity.

Securing Your Barrel

To prevent accidents, especially during storms, secure your rain barrel to the wall or ground. Tipping over a full rain barrel is not only a hazard but could also lead to significant water loss. Strong winds and animals can also cause instability, making anchors a necessity.

Water Drainage

Ensure the area around the barrel is well-drained. During heavy rains, the overflow system may discharge considerable amounts of water, which can puddle around the foundation of your home if the area isn’t properly graded.

Maintaining Your Rain Barrel

While rain barrels are generally low-maintenance, regular care will extend their life and keep the collected water cleaner. Here’s how:

Regular Cleaning

At least twice a year, it’s a good idea to empty and clean your rain barrel. Use a mild soap solution and rinse it several times to remove any residues. This is especially important after long periods of inactivity, as standing water can develop algae and unpleasant odors.

Winter Considerations

For those in colder climates, winter can pose some challenges. Frozen water expands and can crack the barrel, so it’s advisable to disconnect and empty the barrel before the first frost. Store the barrel upside-down or in a sheltered location.

Monitor and Replace Filters

If your rain barrel includes a filtration system, make sure to check it periodically and replace or clean filters as needed. Clogged filters can reduce water flow and introduce contaminants into the stored water.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Here are some common issues you might encounter with a rain barrel and solutions to fix them:

Mosquitoes and Insects

If mosquitoes are getting into your rain barrel, double-check the lid and ensure all vents are covered with fine mesh screens. You can also add mosquito dunks (safe for plants and animals) to the water as an additional deterrent.

Water Pressure Issues

Low water pressure is often caused by insufficient elevation or a clogged spigot. Elevate your barrel higher or clean the spigot to ameliorate this problem.

Leaks

Sometimes leaks develop at the seams or around the spigot. A simple patch kit designed for waterproof materials can usually fix these. For a long-term solution, consider applying a sealant over problem areas during installation.

Final Thoughts…

Thanks for your thoughtful question, Adam. Rain barrels are an excellent addition to any backyard farm, especially if you’re keen on saving water and reducing your environmental footprint. Once you’ve weighed the different materials and features available in rain barrels, you’ll be able to select the perfect one for your garden. Remember to regularly maintain your system and consider using advanced features like diverter kits or built-in filtration to get the most out of your rainwater collection. Enjoy your sustainable gardening journey!