Rain barrels collect rain water.
Rain barrel systems have become a popular way for homeowners to get water for their landscapes and gardens. The rain barrel system consists of a large barrel, a tube that is connected to the home's downspout or gutter, and a garden hose that connects to a faucet at the bottom of the barrel. When it rains, the water runs off of the roof and into the barrel, where it remains until needed. Rain barrel systems are also an environmentally friendly way to conserve water usage. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Make sure the rain barrel is properly attached to the downspout of the home. Insert flexible rubber gutter tubing to the downspout and insert the other end three tofour inches into the top opening of the rain barrel. The length of the tubing will vary based on how far away from the downspout the rain barrel is located.
2. Place the rain barrel in a location that is out of direct sunlight. Sunlight will cause algae to grow inside the tank.
3. Place the rain barrel on top of two cinder blocks placed side by side. You can use other materials if desired, but the rain barrel must be elevated in order for the water to drain out of it properly.
4. Install a fine mesh screen, such as window screen, over the top of the rain barrel. This mesh screen serves to prevent leaves from clogging up the barrel and to prevent access to mosquitoes which will lay eggs in the water. To install it, remove the top lid from the rain barrel, place the wire mesh over the top of the barrel and then place the top back onto the barrel.
5. Wait until there has been rainfall and attach a garden hose to the faucet located near the bottom of the rain barrel. Stretch the other end of the hose to the location that you want to water and then turn the handle of the faucet on the barrel counterclockwise to open the flow of water. Turn the handle clockwise to stop the flow of water, when you are done.
6. Drain the barrel of water after each rain during winter months (in moderate climates with periodic freezes . The barrel should never be more than 75 percent full to allow for expansion as the water freezes.
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