Harvest Rain, Not Bills: Building a DIY Rain Barrel System for Your Homestead

Are you tired of watching precious rainwater disappear down the drain while your garden thirsts for a drink? Do you dream of a more self-sufficient homestead, where resources are carefully conserved and utilized? Then this weekend project is for you! Building a DIY rain barrel system is an incredibly practical and rewarding way to enhance your homestead's resilience, save money on your water bill, and provide your plants with naturally beneficial rainwater. It's an easy homesteading DIY project that any experienced or beginner homesteader can tackle. This post will guide you through each step, ensuring a successful and satisfying weekend project.

Let’s dive in and turn rainwater into a valuable asset!

Why a Rain Barrel System?

Before we get started, let’s quickly cover the benefits:

• Cost Savings: Reduce your reliance on municipal water, leading to lower water bills, especially during peak gardening season.
• Environmental Impact: Conserve water, reduce stormwater runoff, and minimize your environmental footprint.
• Plant Health: Rainwater is naturally soft and free of chemicals like chlorine, which can benefit plant growth. It’s also slightly acidic, making nutrients in the soil more accessible to your plants.
• Self-Sufficiency: Gain greater control over your water supply, increasing your homestead's resilience, particularly during droughts or water restrictions.

Materials List: What You’ll Need

Here's a comprehensive list of the materials you'll need for this project. We've included some recommended brands and alternatives where applicable.

• 55-Gallon Food-Grade Plastic Barrel: Look for a used barrel that previously held food-grade products (e.g., olives, pickles). Check local food processing plants, breweries, or online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Avoid barrels that contained chemicals. Ensure it's thoroughly cleaned!
• Downspout Diverter: Allows you to redirect rainwater from your downspout into the barrel. Options include the Oatey Rain Harvesting Diverter or the Flex-Fit Downspout Diverter.
• Spigot: A ¾-inch brass spigot is ideal for attaching a hose. Look for one with a hose thread.
• Bulkhead Fitting (Optional): Use a bulkhead fitting of the same size as your spigot for a secure and watertight connection (¾-inch). You can find these at most hardware stores.
• Screening: Use fiberglass or aluminum screening to cover the inlet of the barrel and prevent debris and insects from entering.
• PVC Pipe and Fittings (Optional): If you want to connect multiple barrels or extend the outlet. Use ¾-inch PVC pipe and fittings (elbows, couplings, etc.) as needed.
• Thread Sealant Tape (Teflon Tape): For creating watertight seals on threaded connections.
• Drill with Hole Saw Attachment: The size of the hole saw will depend on the diameter of your spigot and bulkhead fitting (if used).
• Wrench: For tightening the spigot and bulkhead fitting.
• Utility Knife or Scissors: For cutting the screening.
• Level: To ensure the base is level.
• Concrete Blocks or Bricks: To elevate the barrel (at least 12 inches). This provides gravity-fed water pressure and makes it easier to access the spigot.
• Gravel or Pavers: For creating a level base for the concrete blocks or bricks.
• Gloves and Safety Glasses: For personal protection.
• Cleaning Supplies: Soap, water, and a scrub brush for cleaning the barrel.

Step-by-Step Guide: Building Your Rain Barrel System

Now, let's get to the fun part! Follow these steps to build your very own rain barrel system.

Step 1: Prepare the Barrel

Thoroughly clean the barrel inside and out with soap and water. Rinse it well to remove any residue. This is crucial to prevent contamination of the water.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Choose a location near a downspout that is relatively level. Clear away any debris and create a stable base using gravel or pavers. Place the concrete blocks or bricks on top of the base, ensuring they are level. This elevation is essential for proper water flow from the spigot.

Step 3: Drill the Spigot Hole

Using the hole saw attachment on your drill, carefully drill a hole near the bottom of the barrel for the spigot. The size of the hole should match the diameter of your spigot or bulkhead fitting.

Safety Precautions: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Drill slowly and steadily to avoid cracking the plastic.

Step 4: Install the Spigot (and Bulkhead Fitting)

If using a bulkhead fitting, insert it into the hole and tighten it securely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply thread sealant tape to the threads of the spigot and screw it into the bulkhead fitting (or directly into the barrel if you're not using a bulkhead fitting). Tighten with a wrench until snug.

Tip: Overtightening can damage the plastic. Tighten until the connection is secure and watertight.

Step 5: Install the Downspout Diverter

Cut a section out of your downspout according to the instructions included with your downspout diverter. Install the diverter, ensuring it is properly aligned to direct water into the barrel.

Step 6: Position the Barrel

Carefully lift the barrel onto the prepared base, positioning it directly under the downspout diverter outlet.

Step 7: Install the Screening

Cut a piece of screening that is slightly larger than the opening at the top of the barrel. Secure it over the opening using tape, a rubber band, or by tucking it under the lid (if your barrel has one). This will prevent leaves, insects, and other debris from entering the barrel.

Step 8: Test Your System

Wait for the next rainfall and observe your rain barrel system in action. Check for leaks around the spigot and downspout diverter. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper water flow and prevent leaks.

Step 9: Connect Multiple Barrels (Optional)

If you want to increase your water storage capacity, you can connect multiple barrels together using PVC pipe and fittings. Drill a hole near the bottom of each barrel and connect them with PVC pipe, ensuring the connections are watertight.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Winterize Your System: In colder climates, disconnect the downspout diverter and drain the rain barrel before freezing temperatures arrive to prevent damage.
• Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean your rain barrel to remove any sediment or algae buildup.
• Water Usage: Rainwater is excellent for watering gardens, lawns, and washing cars. However, it's not recommended for drinking unless it's properly filtered and treated.
• Mosquito Control: To prevent mosquitoes from breeding in your rain barrel, use mosquito dunks or add a small amount of vegetable oil to the water surface. The screening should also prevent insects from entering the barrel.
• Consider local regulations: Check your local city, county, or homeowner's association regulations on rainwater harvesting.

Safety Precautions

• Always use a food-grade barrel to avoid contamination.
• Wear safety glasses when drilling.
• Be careful when lifting heavy objects. Get help if needed.
• Never drink rainwater without proper filtration and treatment.
• Ensure the base is stable to prevent the barrel from tipping over.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully built your own DIY rain barrel system. By taking this simple step, you've enhanced your homestead's self-sufficiency, reduced your environmental impact, and gained a valuable resource for your garden. Now, sit back, relax, and watch the rain fill your barrel, knowing you're making a positive difference.

We encourage you to share your experiences and photos of your rain barrel systems in the comments below! What challenges did you face? What tips do you have for other homesteaders? Let's learn from each other and build a more sustainable future, one rain barrel at a time.