How to Divert Rain Water Into a Barrel

Setting up a rain barrel is not as difficult as some may think. There are a lot of kits to help you with this project as well. I like the kit from Rainreserve because, number one it's made in the USA. It's a fully inclosed system, keeps debris out of the barrels and actually stops filling your barrels when they are full. This prevent them from flooding over. 


Another advantage to these enclosed systems is you don't have to have your barrel next to the house under a the rain spouts. As long as your diverter is higher than your barrel,  you can run your hose underground to where ever you want to place your barrel placed.

RainReserve Rain Barrel Complete Diverter Kit (Barrel Not Included)

If you have your own tools you may only need the less expensive Basic Rain Diverter Kit.

Many rain barrels are not fully enclosed. They filter the debris with screens, usually built into the barrel where the water pours in and are placed under modified water spouts to catch the water. Here is some great info on how to construct one of these barrels. http://www.watershedactivities.com/projects/spring/rainbarl.html


Rain barrels don't have to be an eye sore in your yard. Here is some great rain barrel art to get you inspired: 

http://www.recycletheraindrops.org/artists.html#ps