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Retrofits for a greener home
Yardwork: Rain barrels
Save on water costs
Capture rain in a barrel instead of your basement
A rain barrel is a container designed to collect and store rainwater from rooftops through a downspout system which can be stored for later use. Rain barrels are the most common form of rainwater harvesting. Rain barrels are made with different materials and come in different colours which can help blend them with your garden.
Rain barrels can serve a variety of uses including:
- Flood control: Helps prevent excess water runoff, reducing soil erosion and water pooling around foundations.
- Yard use: Can be used for cleaning outdoor spaces and filling birdbaths.
- Lower water bills: Saves money by reducing consumption of city or well water.
- Water conservation: Reduces reliance on municipal water supplies, especially during droughts.
- Gardening and landscaping: Provides free, non-chlorinated water for plants, flowers, and lawns.
- Car washing: Eco-friendly way to wash vehicles without using tap water.
What to look for
- The material used to make the rain barrel. Different materials such as plastic, metal, concrete, and fiberglass can affect durability and each have their pros and cons.
- The capacity of the rain barrel that you need will depend on the roof surface area being diverted, and the amount of water to be used.
- Ensure the barrel has an overflow hose or diverter to redirect excess water safely when full.
- A tightly sealed lid and a mesh screen help prevent debris buildup, mosquito breeding, and contamination.
- Look for a spigot (faucet) at a convenient height and ensure it is compatible with your garden hose or irrigation system.
Things to consider
- Ensure that the rain barrel is set up for proper drainage and is compatible with existing hoses or irrigation systems.
- Position your rain barrel on a flat, sturdy surface near a downspout. Elevating it on a platform improves water pressure.
- Drain and store your barrel before freezing temperatures to prevent cracking or damage.
- Clean the barrel and filter periodically to prevent algae, sediment buildup, and odors.
- If needed, link multiple barrels together to increase storage capacity and optimize water collection.
Average cost
$65 to $200
Financial help available for rain barrels
Talk to a Greener Homes Coach
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Durham Region residents can get free expert and personalized advice from a trained Greener Homes Coach