Rain barrels – The very name brings up images of old farms with a wooden barrel off the end of the barn roof where farmers dipped water out to feed the smaller animals. Fast forward ahead to the current era of the green revolution. Rain barrels are available in an assortment of shapes and styles on Amazon and have integral leaf filters, hose outlets and overflow tubes. They cost around $100 or so for a 55 gallon version. Should you get one?

Pros:

A 20 x 60 foot home can generate 6000 gallons of water typically in a year.

Rain water is PH-neutral, not chlorinated and not excessively mineral rich so is ideal for delicate house plants and outdoor flowers.

Rain barrels are simple devices with no pumps or moving parts so will mechanically last indefinitely.

Having a supply of emergency water in case of a major disaster such as an earthquake is a good idea. Note that you will probably have to boil it or add water purification tablets though, to make it potable.

The use of a rain barrel sends a positive message to future generations about conserving resources, no matter how small the scale.

Cons:

Ever had a fish tank? Remember the algae, the smell, the cleaning issues? Rain barrels will need maintenance too. They get algae and mosquito larvae and the filters need cleaned of leaves and debris.

You must winterize the rain barrel so it won’t crack in freezing weather. This can be as simple as leaving the valve open on the bottom but the better method is to drain and cover the barrel.

Have you noticed how hot the water is in your garden hose when you try to use it in the afternoon? You will need to use rain barrel water during early morning hours before the barrel heats up in the mid-day sun. This is actually a minor issue since early morning is the proper time to water outside. It just may not be convenient.

A rain barrel does cost ~$100. You can’t make one easily as plastic garbage cans can not sustain the weight of all that water for very long. Besides, you need drain valves, overflow hoses  and filters.

Final Hint:

Do you part. Leave a 5 gallon bucket or a watering can under the drain spout. It’s practically free and you can get enough water for the house plants.

For more information on rain barrels and other eco articles, visit Tips For Green Living.