Through the centuries, people have often collected rain water using a variety of vessels--bowls, tubs and barrels, just to name a few. Rain barrels in the past couple of centuries were often made of recycled whiskey casks. Now rain barrels are more frequently made of heavy duty plastic, although you can still find wood rain barrels. However, plastic barrels have a big advantage over wood ones--they do not rot. Does this Spark an idea?
Size
If you don't need a large barrel, you can buy small rain barrels that hold about 55 gallons of water. Most sold for residential use hold between 50 and 100 gallons. You can, however, find extra large rain barrels that can hold a few hundred gallons of water.
Features
Whether made of wood or plastic, most rain barrels have an opening at the top, allowing rain to enter, and a spigot at the bottom. You can usually (especially with modern rain barrels) attach a hose to this spigot to divert water to your lawn or garden. Many modern barrels have two spigots--one at the bottom and one at the top.
Some barrels come with a screen or filter to keep insects and debris out of the barrel. Many have an overflow mechanism and attachments--usually sold separately--that allow you to connect several barrels together.
Benefits
Use water collected in rain barrels for watering your lawn and garden or for washing your car. This can reduce your water bill and help conserve water. In many cases, pure rain water--as it has none of the chemical additives used for purification in treated water--may be better for your lawn and garden.
Price
As of August 2009, 55-gallon plastic rain barrels ranged from around $100 to $200. Price will vary according to where you buy the barrel, the size and special features.
Although these are not cheap, a rain barrel should save you money through time--by saving you money on your water bill.
Warning
Unfiltered and untreated rain water from a rain barrel, although fine for watering the lawn and garden, is rarely suitable for drinking.
Keep the lid securely in place at all times to prevent pets or kids from climbing inside (and accidentally drowning). Most, but not all, modern barrels are built to prevent such accidents.
Tags: rain barrels, lawn garden, barrels have, rain barrels, your lawn