|
Why use a rain barrel?
An average home with a roof size of 1,000 square
feet will generate approximately 600 gallons of water from
a 1-inch rainfall. Collecting and using this water with rain
barrels helps reduce the demand on public and private water
supplies, and reduces pollution, flooding, and erosion in
local waterways by reducing storm water
runoff.
How do I use the water?
The water that you collect in your rain barrel can
be used to water indoor and outdoor potted plants and landscaped
areas, clean off gardening tools, wash your car, and for other
non-potable uses.
How do I install the barrel?
The rain barrel is easy to install. Shorten your
downspout, leaving a 2" gap to allow for removal and
cleaning of the screen on top of the barrel. Use an elbow
or section of flexible downspout if needed to direct the water
into the barrel. Elevating the barrel on blocks will create
increased flow.
Will the barrel be a source of mosquitoes?
Place a mosquito "dunk" or "donut"
in the barrel to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. These products
are non-toxic, inexpensive, and widely-available.
|
