RAIN BARRELS

The Benefits of Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are used as a way to divert the water from your downspout into everyday use. Rain barrels catch the rain water that comes off your roof and store it into a rainwater catchment system. Rain barrels provide several benefits for both homeowners and renters alike. Take advantage of the rainy weather by investing in a rain barrel system for your home.

Using rain barrels is an excellent way to reduce the volume of water you are using. This can help keep our beaches ready, our creeks flowing, and can help reduce the amount of water that flows into the sewage system. During floods rain barrels can protect your home from foundation damage and during droughts the containers will store excess rain water from the wet months to be used later on.

Another big benefit to using rain barrels is that you can save on your water bill. Rather than using tap water for everything, you can use the water collected in the rain barrels for a number of things around the home. While you may not be happy to drink the rain water, you can use this water for watering the lawn, for growing a veggie garden, for washing your car and for cleaning household items. Rain water is free of the chemicals in tap water including chlorine, lime and calcium. The more you use your stored rain water, the less tap water you consume and thus the lower your water bills will be. You can reduce your water bill by around 40 percent by using rain barrels and using the rain water instead of the tap.

If your community asks you to reduce water use during sweltering summer months, then you can still keep your lawn looking green and your car clean by using the stored rain water.  Using rainwater is better for the environment by reducing energy use too.

Another benefit to having rain barrels is emergency use. One of the first things impacted during many disasters is electricity and often that means water/sewer systems.  If you have rain barrels, you have water for washing and cleaning, and if needed it can be boiled for consumption.  You are automatically prepared for any emergency without making a trip to the grocery store and battling with hundreds of other people for overpriced bottled water.

Rain Barrel Concerns

One of the biggest concerns expressed when it comes to using rain barrels is the attraction of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes breed in still water and some of the most dangerous types of mosquitoes often live near still water. Your local council may offer a treatment option to keep mosquitoes away. Another way to keep mosquitoes to a minimum is to add a drop or two of liquid dish soap periodically. The soap creates a film on the surface of the water, breaking the surface tension. Therefore, if mosquitoes make it into the barrel to lay their eggs, they drown before they get a chance.

Look for a rain barrel that comes with a lid and mosquitoes netting as well, especially if you live in an area where mosquitoes are common. If you do feel that your rain barrel has become a breeding ground for insects, then empty the container out completely. A rain barrel with a tightly sealed lid will also prevent pets and children from falling into the barrel.