Rain Barrel Diverters - Collecting Rain Water

Rain barrel diverters are one of the easiest ways you can save money around your household. Many cities are facing drought conditions or water restrictions. Because of this, water rates have been rising. While water is still one of the least expensive items we pay for, it is still becoming more expensive. And since it rain water collection is one of the easiest things you can do.

Use a rain barrel diverter rather than a bucket. It typically comes complete with a screen to filter out debris and helps to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Rain barrel diverters also come with hose attachment which means you have an easy way to water your lawn.

Set up your rain water collection system to collect water from your roof line. By placing your rain barrel under your downspout, you will collect much more water than if you just place a bucket out on your lawn. Your rooftop provides a greater collection area and this is consolidated and then runs off through your gutters and downspout.

Keep your rain barrel screens clean. The filters and screens on your rain barrel will accumulate leaf and other organic matter over time. It is important to clean these out occasionally to help prevent insects from breeding and water spill off. Generally this is not something you have to do frequently. You should check your screens monthly at first to get an idea of how often to clean them out.

Collected rain water is best used for landscaping purposes, or outdoor cleaning needs. You can even use collected rain water to wash your car. Unless you use a more advanced filtration system, and are aware of the composition of your roof and gutters, you should not use collected rain water for drinking purposes. Collected rain water is safe for use in landscaping.

Since most areas of the country are experiencing water shortages and landscaping can account for up to 70% of all water usage in a suburban household, it is important to try to reduce that. By reducing the amount of water you pull from municipal supplies you will also help save some money. It's a win-win situation.

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