Make an inexpensive, perhaps almost free of charge, rain barrel from a discarded 55-gallon plastic drum. These drums often originally contained foods and juices, a service that would make them a safe option for rain barrel use. Ask among area schools, bakeries or other food suppliers who work in quantities if they have used plastic drums they are willing to give away. Otherwise, drum and barrel suppliers sell 55-gallon plastic drums. Once assembled and left in place, you can begin to use rainwater not only to irrigate your yard and garden, but also to wash your car, mop your floors or even to flush your toilet, if your city permits this. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Wash the inside of the barrel with a solution of 1/8th cup of bleach added to 5 gallons of water to remove food or liquid residue. Only use a food-grade plastic drum, not one that previously contained chemicals. Preferably, opt for a dark-colored drum; clear and translucent barrels that let in light allow algae to grow.
2. Drill a hole using the 3/4-inch drill bit a few inches from the bottom of the plastic drum for the hose spigot.
3. Screw the 1/2-inch PVC male adapter into the hole. Remove the adapter and wrap the threads with Teflon tape. Apply a waterproof sealant to the threads. Screw the adapter back into the hole and let it sit for 24 hours to dry.
4. Attach the 3 1/2-foot vinyl hose to the adapter.
5. Set the plastic drum on a level platform underneath your downspout. Use a platform solidly formed from a layer of bricks or cinder blocks for a strong surface.
6. Cut or disconnect your downspout so it can be directed into the top of the drum. Disassemble the downspout at the gutter and attach a flexible downspout extender or cut off the downspout with a fine-toothed hacksaw.
7. Cut a hole with a utility knife in the top of the plastic drum just large enough for the downspout to reach and penetrate into the inside.
Tags: plastic drum, 55-gallon plastic, into hole, plastic drum, plastic drums, rain barrel