How to Install and Use a Rain Barrel
May 02, 2012; 10:34 AM
RenovateYourWorld.com
A rain barrel is a water-efficient way of supplying your garden with a renewable source of water.
Step 1: Remove the downspout where the barrel will be installed.
To make room for the barrel, remove the downspout leading to the installation area. Use a screwdriver or a drill to unscrew and remove the bracket that holds the downspout in place. Next, temporarily remove the section of downspout leading to the barrel installation area.
Unscrew the screws or rivets holding the bracket to the house.
Step 2: Prepare the installation area.
The area where the barrel will be placed must be very stable and flat. Clean away any grass or other plants, and dig down three inches into the soil. The depression should be wide enough to support the barrel with a few additional inches on either side. Use a rake to level the excavated area, and spread and level driveway gravel until it is about even with the surrounding area.
Level the depression with a rake.
Step 3: Place cinder blocks down.
Set down two cinder blocks or similar pavers. The blocks will raise the barrel off the ground so that gravity can help distribute the water. Wiggle the cinder blocks in place to give them a firm footing. Check with a level to make sure that the cinder blocks are level both front-to-back and side-to-side. Build up the cinder blocks to the desired height, making sure with each level that the blocks are stable and level.
Build up the cinder block base.
Step 4: Place the rain barrel on the blocks.
Place the rain barrel on the cinder blocks. Make sure that the weight of the barrel is evenly distributed. Check that the barrel is level. Adjust, if necessary.
Check that the rain barrel is level.
Step 5: Cut and attach the downspout.
Measure the distance from the gutter downspout connection to the barrel. Cut the removed section of to fit the distance between the gutter downspout connection and the opening in the barrel. Re-insert the downspout into the gutter above.
Cut the downspout to size with a hacksaw.
Step 6: Attach the downspout bracket.
Fasten the bracket holding the downspout to the house. With the downspout resting on the rain barrel, you may not need to refasten the downspout to the bracket.
Screw the bracket back into the house.