The Best Rain Barrel

Buying Guide

If you’re looking for another way to save money while also doing good for the environment, consider installing a rain barrel under your downspout. You’ll be able to collect the rainwater and use it to water your lawn, vegetable garden, flower beds and indoor potted plants. Of course, you’ll want to do your homework first to ensure you purchase a quality rain barrel that will last.

Determine what type of construction material would work best in your area. You can go with a traditional wooden barrel, which does require a little bit more maintenance than other models, but still does an excellent job collecting and storing rain. Another option is to go with a unit like the Good Ideas RW50-OAK Wizard Rain Barrel, which is made out of a UV-resistant polyethylene resin that won’t rust and doesn’t grow mold. It also doesn’t rot like wooden barrels.

Should you need your rain barrel to be more portable, you’ll want to go with a model that is constructed using a PVC frame and an anti-corrosion PVC mesh fabric. This type of barrel is lightweight and a cinch to move from point A to point B, as well as collapsible for easy storage when not in use.

Consider how much rain your area receives and the size of your yard when selecting a rain barrel. For example, some models come with a linking kit for connecting them to additional rain barrels. That way you can double or even triple your water collection. Don’t forget to consider the capacity of the rain barrel as well. You can get a model that is capable of storing 40 gallons of rainwater, or one that can hold as much as 80 gallons.

Look at the barrel’s additional features next. There are barrels that are equipped with a mosquito-proof stainless steel mesh screen to keep bugs and debris out of the barrel. Others also have child locking screws to keep toddlers and pets from accidentally falling in the barrel. There are even barrels that come with garden hoses, hanging hose clips, overflow hoses and a spigot.

Review the design of the rain barrel last. Some models have a flat back so that you can install them just about anywhere on your property, including up against the side of your home. There are BPA-free roto-molded plastic barrels that are designed to resemble a large terracotta pot, as well as models that are made to look just like a classic whiskey barrel. You’ll even find some rain barrels offer a choice of finishes, including green, oak, gray, black and white.

• If mosquitoes are a problem in your area, you can purchase mosquito dunks to toss in your rain barrel. This product is completely safe to use around pets and wildlife, including honey bees, as it is made up of an organic Bti larvicide that is only harmful to mosquito larvae.
• Not all rain barrels are sold with a base stand. You can either purchase one separately or build one out of wood if you’re handy. It’s always a good idea to use a base, as this prevents the rain barrel from tipping over.
• In addition to the base, you need to make sure the ground is level before you set your rain barrel on it. If your land is uneven, you can use paving stones or leveling spots to even the area out.
• Certain rain barrels require you have a screwdriver on hand when you want to clean them, as the barrels secure their lids with screws to prevent children and small pets from falling in accidentally.
• If you live in an area of the world that endures a cold season, you’ll need to protect your rain barrel by disconnecting it and moving it to a garage, shed or other storage location. Should you leave the barrel in place and the water inside of it freeze, your barrel could suffer damage.
• Keeping your rain barrel clean is also an important part of extending the life of your barrel. Scoop any leaves and debris out of the barrel and clean it out of the diverter and screen. You can disinfect the barrel by scrubbing it down with a vinegar and water solution. Make sure you completely rinse it clean before setting it back up to collect more rainwater.
• There are several factors that affect the overall price of a rain barrel. These include construction materials, capacity and the number of features.