The Dos and Don’ts of Rainwater Harvesting

The Dos and Don’ts of Rainwater Harvesting

Do:

  • Increase water pressure out of your rain barrel by installing an electric pump or raising the barrel higher off the ground with a rain barrel stand.
  • Follow our instructions for cleaning and maintaining your rain barrel regularly.
  • Use a soaker hose for low pressure applications to constantly water nearby plants.
  • Plant in the top of your rain barrel if it has a planter top. We suggest laying down a layer of small gravel or rocks to help with drainage, followed by sand or coco fiber (a peat moss replacement) and then a growing medium of some kind such as top soil or potting mix.
  • Make sure screens are in place in both your gutters/downspout and on your barrel to avoid debris build-up, and remove debris periodically.
  • Disconnect your rain barrel from the collection system before winter.

Don’t:

  • Do NOT drink collected rainwater. It is not for human or animal consumption.
  • Don’t leave water in your rain barrel for extended periods.
  • Don’t spray water directly on vegetables or leaves in case of contaminants from the roof. In case of contact, make sure to wash vegetables thoroughly.
  • Don’t allow overflow from the barrel to be directed toward your foundation. This could cause erosion and potential damage.
  • Don’t let the foundation for the barrel become unlevel or unstable as a full barrel is heavy and can tip over easily.
  • Don’t allow rainwater to freeze in your rain barrel. Water expands when frozen and can cause damage to your barrel.