Creating a rain barrel

Tips before you begin:

• Rain barrels use simple gravity to dispense water that has been captured from natural water run off

 

• To optimize pressure and flow of water, rain barrels can be raised off the ground by creating a platform or stand using landscape materials such as decorative blocks or paver bricks.

 

• When filled with water, the rain barrel will weigh about 450 pounds. Be sure to have a sturdy enough foundation to support the weight without tipping.

 

• Use on a level surface. Never place rain barrel on an uneven surface. The base of the surface should be, at least the size of the bottom of the rain barrel. Compacted gravel or large concrete blocks are recommended  for a base.

                                            

Things needed

 

• Rain barrel kit
•  Screwdriver
•  Hacksaw
•  Gloves
•  Landscape blocks
•  Tape measure
•   Level

 

Step #1

   Assemble Rain barrel package

 

Step #2

   Prepare surface for rain barrel.  Rain barrel must be placed on a compact level surface that will support up to 450 lbs.  The base should be min of 24 x 24.

 

Step #3

   Place assembled rain barrel in front of downspout and mark. Hold lower portion of the downspout over the rain barrel and next to the upper portion of the downspout.  The end of the downspout should be positioned two inches (2") above the top of the lid.  If the downspout is positioned too close to the lid it could cause more water to flow off the barrel than into the barrel.

 

Step #4

    Remove rain barrel, place plywood between backside of the gutter and house.  Cut gutter and reattach bottom portion of downspout.

Step #5

Once platform is complete, the downspout is raised and secure, and the rain barrel is in place, test the stability of the foundation by filling the base with a garden hose. 

     Once set up is complete and stable keep 6-8 of water in the barrel at all times.

 

Step #6

Use downspout extension throughout the winter months to re-direct the water away from the rain barrel to prevent freezing.

 Enjoy Naturally collected "free" rain water.

 

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Www.NorthMeridianHardware.com