Rain Barrel: For Water Saving and Stormwater Control

I'm stoked to chat with you about something I'm passionate about: rain barrels. Not just because they're good for the environment but because they can seriously save you some dosh and hassle. So, let's dive in, shall we?

What Are Rain Barrels?

Alright, so what's a rain barrel? It's a big container that you hook up to your downspout to collect rainwater. Think of it like a free water source sitting beside your house! Instead of that water just running off your roof, down the drain, and into the stormwater system, you can capture it and use it later.

Why should you bother with a rain barrel? Plenty of reasons!

Save on Water Bills

When you use rainwater to water your garden or clean, such as washing your car or outdoor furniture, you use less city water. Over time, this can significantly reduce your water bills, especially considering how pricey water can be in Sydney. Every drop counts!

Conserve Water

Water is valuable, especially in Australia, where droughts can be terrible. Using rainwater that falls naturally from the sky in rain barrels is an easy and effective way to save water. By using rainwater instead of tap water, you're helping to reduce the strain on our water supply.

Protect Our Waterways

Rainwater runoff can pick up pollutants from your driveway like fertilisers, pesticides, and even oil and petrol. This polluted runoff then flows into our rivers and streams, harming aquatic life and degrading water quality. By capturing the rainwater in a barrel, you prevent these pollutants from entering our waterways, helping to keep them clean and healthy for everyone.

Control Moisture Around Your Foundation

Excess water around a home's foundation can lead to many problems, including dampness, mould growth, and even structural damage. Rain barrels help manage the amount of water that accumulates around a foundation, reducing the risk of these issues and protecting the home's integrity.

Rain Barrel Installation

So, you're keen on getting a rain barrel set up. Here’s how we go about it to ensure everything runs smoothly:

Placement

First, we carefully scout out the ideal location for your rain barrel. It must be close to a downspout so water can flow easily into it. It must also be on a solid, level surface to prevent tipping. Raise the barrel slightly using bricks or a sturdy platform. This provides better water pressure when you use the water for irrigation or other purposes.

Downspout Connection

Next, we'll meticulously cut your downspout and install an elbow to direct the rainwater straight into the barrel. We use high-quality materials and secure all connections with screws or PVC cement to prevent leaks and ensure a watertight seal. Proper connection is essential for maximising the collected water and preventing water wastage.

Overflow Management

This is a crucial aspect of rain barrel installation. When the barrel reaches its maximum capacity, the excess water needs to be directed away from your house to prevent flooding and potential damage to your foundation. We typically install an overflow hose that directs the water to a designated area, such as your garden, a landscaped area, or a nearby drain. A well-designed overflow system protects your property and prevents water damage.

First Flush

Think of it as a pre-filter for your rain barrel. It helps keep rainwater clean and free from contaminants, making it safer for use in your garden or other non-potable purposes.

Pro-Tip: We always recommend implementing a "first flush" system. This simple device diverts the first few gallons of rainwater from the barrel, preventing any accumulated debris, leaves, or pollutants from entering your clean water supply. 

Rain Barrel Maintenance

A rain barrel isn't a "set and forget" thing. It is essential to maintain your system so that it keeps working well.

Regular Tasks

Make it a habit to check your rain barrel system once a month. This involves inspecting the connections for leaks, ensuring the downspout is aligned correctly, and checking the overflow system to ensure it's clear and unobstructed. 

We always advocate using the collected water regularly between rainfalls. This prevents the water from becoming stagnant and reduces the risk of mosquito breeding. Also, regularly clean the screen on top of the barrel and your gutters to remove any debris or leaves that may have accumulated.

Seasonal Tasks

As winter approaches, preparing your rain barrel system for colder weather is essential. Before the first frost, disconnect your barrel from the downspout and empty any remaining water. Then, clean the barrel inside and out with a scrub brush and mild soap. We always scrub the inside with a non-toxic cleaner to keep the algae at bay. Finally, store the barrel in a shed, garage, or other protected area to prevent it from freezing and cracking.

Ongoing Maintenance

Beyond the regular and seasonal tasks, monitoring your rain barrel system throughout the year is essential. Regularly inspect your gutters to ensure they correctly direct rainwater toward the barrel. Also, check the overflow area to ensure it drains effectively and doesn't become blocked or overgrown. Fix any leaks as soon as you spot them to prevent water waste and potential damage to your property.

Prevention

Putting up gutter guards could help keep debris out of your gutters and rain barrel system. Also, look for any signs of insect activity around your rain barrel. If you notice mosquitoes or other pests, eliminate them promptly to prevent them from breeding and becoming a nuisance.

Pro-Tip: To prevent leaves and debris from clogging your gutters and rain barrels, trim any overhanging branches or trees that could drop leaves, twigs, or other organic matter onto your roof. 

Problem-Solving

Okay, so things don't always go to plan. Here are some common rain barrel issues and how to tackle them effectively:

Overflowing

If your barrel constantly overflows, it's a sign that it cannot handle the amount of rainwater coming from your roof. To reduce the amount of water entering the barrel, empty it more often or divert some of the ut flow. 

We can connect a soaker hose to slowly drain the water into your garden or install an additional barrel to increase your storage capacity. We’ll also inspect and clean any clogged inlet screens and ensure the proper functioning of the overflow mechanism.

Cracks or Damage

If you spot cracks, leaks, or other signs of damage to your rain barrel, it's essential to address them promptly to prevent further deterioration. To prevent the barrel from freezing and breaking, fill it immediately, preferably before winter. 

Get the damage repaired with waterproof sealant, patching material, or other appropriate solutions, or call us. We can provide a replacement barrel or expert repair services to get your system back up and running.

Unstable Barrel

Ensure your rain barrel is placed on a level and stable surface. If it's wobbly or tilting, it could tip over, causing a mess or even pose a safety hazard. Level the ground beneath the barrel with sand, gravel, or paving stones, and use shims or wedges to provide additional support if needed. A strong and stable base is vital to keep your rain barrel system safe and working well for a long time.

FAQs About a Rain Barrel

How long can water sit in a rain barrel?

You should use the water within a week or two of it raining. Storing water for extended periods can increase the risk of stagnation, algae growth, and mosquito breeding. 

The best way to maintain the water's quality is to use it regularly and replenish it with fresh rainwater. If you're not planning to use the water for an extended period, consider adding a mosquito dunk or other natural larvicide to prevent mosquito breeding.

In what ways does a rain barrel fail?

While rain barrels offer numerous benefits, they also have a few potential drawbacks. If not appropriately maintained, they can overflow, causing localised flooding and erosion. They can also become clogged with leaves, debris, or sediment, reducing effectiveness. 

Furthermore, rain barrels can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests if not properly sealed. In colder climates, they can also be susceptible to freezing damage if not properly winterised.

How fast will a rain barrel fill up?

The speed at which a rain barrel fills depends on several factors, including the size of your roof, the intensity of the rainfall, and the barrel's capacity. During a heavy downpour, a standard 200-litre rain barrel can fill up in minutes. 

However, the barrel may fill up in several hours or even days during a drizzle. To better understand how quickly your rain barrel fills up, monitor it during different rainfall events and adjust your usage accordingly.

Where does water go when a rain barrel is full?

When a rain barrel reaches its maximum capacity, the excess water must be directed away from the house to prevent flooding and potential damage to the foundation. 

A properly installed rain barrel system will include an overflow mechanism that directs the excess water to a designated drainage area, such as your garden, a landscaped area, or a nearby storm drain. To prevent water from pooling or causing erosion, the overflow area must be properly graded and maintained.

How often should I empty a rain barrel?

Ideally, empty your rain barrel within a week or two after a rain event. This prevents the water from standing still, lowering the chance of algae growth and mosquito breeding. 

If you don't plan to use the water for an extended period, it's best to empty and clean the barrel regularly to prevent sediment and debris from accumulating. Regular emptying and cleaning will help keep your rain barrel system functioning efficiently and provide you with a clean, reliable source of rainwater.

What if I want to get services related to a rain barrel?

Well, that’s where All Needs Plumbing comes in. We can help you find the right rain barrel for your needs, set it up correctly, and keep it in good shape so it works well for years. We can help you from start to finish.

We're here to help you get started! We offer a $0 callout fee and are available 24/7 for same-day service. And if you're a senior, don't forget our 15% discount. Plus, we're offering $150 off hot water systems for a limited time if you upgrade. Call us today, and let's chat about how we can help you with all your rain barrel needs.