| Rain Barrel Basics |
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Rain Barrel Basics
Set up the stand Your stand is built from treated lumber to withstand the elements for many years. No additional treatment is needed, but place the stand on firm solid ground. We recommend setting it on leveled pavers or bricks so that the stand is well-supported under all four legs. Please use a level to be sure the stand is level from front to back and from side to side - don't just "eyeball it." Remember your stand will be supporting around 450 pounds of water when full. Set up the barrel Be sure the stand is level and on a solid base. Place the barrel so that the spigot is easily accessible for buckets or attaching hoses, using our stand's recessed front. Check that the lid is tightened down securely and the screens are clean. Make sure the spigot is closed so you don’t lose the water you intend to harvest. (That last one came from personal deflating experience.) Set up the downspout Getting water into the barrel can be accomplished any number of ways. 1) Free flow – simply detach your down spout at the gutter and let the rain fall. If you don’t mind splashing this is fine. 2) Direct the flow – cut the downspout above the barrel and attach elbows and or extenders to bring the water to the barrel. We also have non-decorative chain. 3) Diverters – Our wise customers requested these so we offer them, and recommend them. A diverter can be added to your downspout to allow you to choose where the water goes. A simple lever inside directs the flow into the barrel or into your normal drainage pattern. Diverters available at our Rain Barrels Iowa store are for 2"x3” or 3"x4” downspouts and in multiple colors, & made in Iowa! At the end of the season, redirect the water flow back into the normal discharge for your landscape. Set up the overflow The overflow at the top of the barrel is designed to allow you to channel excess water when the barrel is full. A hose must be attached to it to direct overflow the water back into your downspout system or otherwise 10 feet away from your foundation. Please use a reinforced hose connector for your overflow. We have those available at our store, open Sundays 12-5. Hours will expand when Joel finishes teaching, but call for other evening appointment times as needed.
Questions, comments and PLEASE share photos of your rain water harvest setup at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at 515-276-6267. Additional rain barrels, stands, and multi-barrel water harvesting banks are available. Enjoy harvesting rain! |