Using rainwater instead of tap water in your home is one of the easiest ways to help the environment.
Collecting rainwater for home use saves on your water bill and also helps the environment by reducing the strain on public water systems and preventing natural aquifers from depleting. Rainwater is soft and free of chlorine and other chemicals, as well as minerals, making it perfect for daily water uses in the home. Collecting it is simple. All you need is a rain barrel and a roof with a downspout on your house. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Purchase a rain barrel that has a spigot at its base that can connect to a hose, or at least that can drain into a bucket. Make sure your rain barrel has an overflow spout, or can be attached to other barrels to deal with surplus water.
2. Clean a mesh or screen and place it on top of the barrel. This will prevent debris such as leaves from getting into the water and clogging up the spigot. It also keeps your water cleaner and keeps out insects such as mosquitoes, which are attracted to water.
3. Elevate your rain barrel enough so that you can put a bucket or watering can beneath the spigot. You can use concrete blocks to establish a stable platform. Elevating your barrel will also assist the flow of water if you use a hose instead of a bucket or watering can to drain the water from the barrel.
4. Position your barrel beneath a downspout on your house. Arrange the downspout so that it drains into your barrel.
5. Use your rainwater to water your garden or lawn. Rainwater is what plants are meant to use, as it does not contain chemicals or minerals. Use rainwater to mop your floors. Use it whenever you need water for any use besides drinking.
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