Creating a self-sufficient backyard is all about finding smart systems that work for you. As a gardener or chicken keeper, you know how quickly water bills can add up. That's where a flat back rain barrel comes in. Unlike bulky round barrels, this clever design fits snugly against your house or coop, saving precious space while collecting free, chlorine-free rainwater. It’s the perfect water source for your plants and flock. This simple addition helps you conserve resources and save money, making your entire backyard ecosystem more sustainable and functional.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace the Flat Back for a Tidy Yard: The main advantage of this design is its ability to sit flush against a wall or your coop. This saves valuable space and helps maintain a clean, organized look in your garden or backyard.
- Choose a Barrel Built for Real Life: Look for durable, weather-resistant materials that can handle the outdoors. Prioritize user-friendly features like a screened lid to keep water clean and a sturdy spigot for easy access.
- Think Beyond Basic Watering: Get the most out of your barrel by connecting it to a soaker hose for efficient irrigation or by choosing a model that can be linked to others for increased water storage during dry spells.
So, What Is a Flat Back Rain Barrel?
A flat back rain barrel is a smart solution for collecting rainwater, especially when you're short on space. Just as the name suggests, it has one flat side designed to sit perfectly flush against an exterior wall of your home, garage, or even your chicken coop. This clever design makes it a practical and unobtrusive addition to your yard. Most of these barrels hold around 50 to 55 gallons of water and are built from tough, weather-resistant materials that can handle being outdoors year-round.
Beyond their shape, these barrels come with features that make collecting and using rainwater simple. A good flat back rain barrel will have a screen on top to keep leaves, debris, and pests out of your water supply. It will also include a spigot near the bottom, making it easy to attach a hose and water your garden or fill up a watering can. It’s an efficient, self-contained system that helps you make the most of every rainfall. Adding one to your setup is one of the most useful coop accessories you can get.
How Are They Different From Round Rain Barrels?
The most obvious difference between a flat back and a traditional round rain barrel is the shape, and that shape makes all the difference for your space. A round barrel needs a certain amount of clearance all the way around, which can eat up valuable real estate on a patio or in a narrow side yard. The flat back design solves this problem by tucking neatly against a wall. This not only saves precious square footage but also creates a much cleaner, more integrated look. Instead of a bulky barrel sticking out, you get a streamlined water collection system that blends right into your home and garden’s aesthetic.
Why Should You Choose a Flat Back Design?
Choosing a flat back rain barrel comes down to practicality and polish. The space-saving design is a major win, allowing for easy installation in tight spots where a round barrel simply wouldn't fit. This makes them a go-to choice for urban gardeners and anyone with a smaller backyard. Functionally, they deliver everything you need, often including a durable spigot for your hose and a removable lid that simplifies cleaning. A flat back barrel is a sustainable choice that looks good while doing good, providing a free water source for your plants and chickens. It’s the kind of thoughtful detail that complements a beautifully customized coop perfectly.
Why You'll Love a Flat Back Rain Barrel
When you're looking for a rain barrel, you’ll quickly notice that not all are created equal. The flat back design, in particular, comes with a set of features that make it a standout choice for any backyard, especially one that includes a chicken coop. These barrels aren't just about collecting water; they're about making your life easier and your garden happier. From their clever, space-saving shape to their simple setup, flat back barrels offer practical benefits that solve common gardening and water conservation challenges. Let's walk through the key features that make these barrels a favorite among homeowners and backyard farmers alike.
A Smart Design That Saves You Space
If you’re working with a small yard or just want to keep your coop area looking neat, a flat back rain barrel is a game-changer. Unlike traditional round barrels that can feel bulky and awkward, the flat side allows it to sit flush against the wall of your home, garage, or even your chicken coop. This smart design is perfect for keeping your pathways clear and making the most of your space, especially when you're adding other coop accessories like feed storage. As gardening experts note, "The flat back means it can be positioned neatly against walls," which is a simple but brilliant solution for maximizing your outdoor area without sacrificing function.
Installation and Use Made Simple
Getting started with rainwater harvesting shouldn't be a complicated project. Flat back rain barrels are known for being incredibly user-friendly. Most models are designed for a straightforward setup, so you can have them connected to your downspout and collecting water in no time. Many also feature a removable lid, which makes a huge difference when it comes to cleaning. You can easily access the inside to clear out any leaves or debris, ensuring the water you collect stays fresh for your plants. This ease of use is a major plus for anyone who wants a low-maintenance solution for their garden.
Conserve Water and Lower Your Bills
One of the most rewarding parts of using a rain barrel is knowing you're conserving a precious resource. By collecting rainwater, you can give your garden, lawn, and outdoor plants a drink of pure, untreated water they'll love. This practice helps you use less city water, which is not only great for the environment but can also help lower your utility bills over time. It’s a simple step toward a more sustainable lifestyle that pays you back. Integrating a rain barrel is a perfect complement to a backyard that already features a beautiful, hand-crafted coop, creating a truly self-sufficient little ecosystem.
A Smart Investment for a Thriving Garden
A flat back rain barrel is more than just a utility item; it's an investment in the beauty and health of your garden. Many designs are aesthetically pleasing, with some even mimicking the look of a classic wine or whiskey barrel. This means you don't have to choose between function and style. Customers often mention that these barrels "work well for garden use, look like a wine barrel, and are easy to install." When you can find a product that is practical, saves you money, and adds a touch of charm to your outdoor space, you know you've found a winner. It’s the kind of thoughtful detail that helps you design your coop and garden area to be both productive and beautiful.
Important Considerations Before You Buy
Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a flat back rain barrel. I get it! They're fantastic. But before you click 'add to cart,' let's cover a couple of quick but important details. Taking a moment to check on these things now will save you potential trouble later and ensure your rainwater harvesting setup is safe and successful from day one. Think of it as doing your homework to make sure you get an A+ in backyard sustainability. These simple checks will help you choose the right setup and use it with confidence.
Is Your Roof Safe for Water Collection?
The first thing to consider is where your water is coming from: your roof. The material your roof is made of can affect the quality of the water you collect for your garden and flock. Thankfully, most common roofing materials are perfectly fine for rainwater harvesting. However, there are a couple of exceptions to watch out for. If your roof has wood shingles treated with fire retardants or is made of copper, you'll want to avoid collecting that runoff. Copper, in particular, can leach into the water and be harmful to your plants. A quick check of your roofing material will give you peace of mind that you're collecting clean, safe water for your veggies and chickens.
Understanding Local Rainwater Collection Rules
Next up is a bit of local research. While collecting rainwater is a fantastic way to be more sustainable, some areas have specific regulations you need to follow. These rules can vary widely depending on your city, county, or even your homeowners' association (HOA). Before you install your barrel, it’s a smart move to do a quick search online or make a call to your local municipality to understand any rainwater collection rules in your area. Taking a few minutes to confirm you're in the clear ensures you can enjoy all the benefits of your new rain barrel without any unexpected compliance issues.
How to Choose the Right Flat Back Rain Barrel
Picking the right rain barrel feels like a big decision, but it’s really about matching the barrel’s features to your home and garden needs. You want something that not only looks great next to your coop or house but also functions perfectly for years to come. By thinking through a few key factors like material, size, and special features, you can find the perfect flat back rain barrel that you’ll be happy with season after season. Let’s walk through exactly what to look for so you can make a confident choice.
Choosing the Right Material for Durability
Your rain barrel will be outside 24/7, facing everything from blazing sun to chilly weather, so durability is non-negotiable. Look for barrels made from high-quality, strong plastics like polyethylene. This type of material is excellent at resisting sun damage and won't crack or become brittle over time. A well-made barrel is a long-term investment in your garden and property. Choosing a sturdy model means you won't have to worry about replacements, giving you more time to enjoy your flock and garden. All of our coop accessories are built with this same commitment to quality and longevity.
What Size Rain Barrel Do You Need?
Rain barrels come in different sizes, but most flat back models hold between 40 and 55 gallons. The right capacity for you depends entirely on your water needs and how much space you have. If you have a large garden, a bigger flock, or simply want to maximize your water collection, a 55-gallon barrel is a fantastic choice. For smaller yards or more urban settings where space is tight, a slightly smaller barrel might be a better fit. Think about how you plan to use the water to find the size that works best for your home.
How to Estimate Your Potential Water Collection
Curious about how much water your new rain barrel can actually save you? It really comes down to two things: the size of your roof and how much rain your area gets. A simple way to estimate is to know that for every inch of rain, you can collect about 0.6 gallons of water for each square foot of your roof. You can easily find your local rainfall averages by checking weather sites online. Or, for a quick and precise answer, you can use an online tool to calculate your catchment potential. This gives you a clear idea of what to expect, helping you plan how to best use all that free water for your garden and flock.
Don't Forget These Must-Have Features
The best flat back rain barrels are designed with convenience in mind. The flat back itself is a key feature, as it allows the barrel to sit flush against a wall, fence, or your chicken coop, saving precious yard space. Another must-have is a removable lid. This makes it incredibly easy to access the water with a watering can and simplifies cleaning. Also, check for a high-quality spigot that’s easy to turn on and off, and consider models with a screen to keep debris and mosquitos out. These small details make a huge difference in how easy the barrel is to use and maintain when you design your coop area.
Exploring the Market: Types, Sizes, and Prices
When you start shopping for a flat back rain barrel, you'll find a good variety of options to fit your space and style. Most models on the market hold between 40 and 55 gallons, a versatile range that works for small urban gardens and larger backyard setups alike. You can find different designs, like the popular 'Impressions' and 'Rain Wizard' series, which offer both function and a touch of aesthetic appeal. The price for these barrels typically falls between $165 and $285, a range that reflects differences in materials, durability, and features. Investing in a high-quality, weather-resistant barrel is a smart move, ensuring it can withstand the elements year-round. Ultimately, the goal is to find a barrel that not only fits your budget but also comes with the features you need, like a screened lid to keep debris out and a sturdy spigot for easy watering. It's a key accessory that complements your coop setup perfectly.
Thinking Ahead: Planning for More Barrels
Your garden or flock might grow over time, and your water needs could grow, too. If you think you might want more water storage down the road, look for a rain barrel that can be linked to other barrels. Many models are designed with connection points that allow you to create a larger water collection system by daisy-chaining multiple barrels together. This is a brilliant feature that lets you start with one barrel and expand as your needs change. It’s a smart way to future-proof your setup, especially if you’re working on larger custom projects for your property.
My 5 Favorite Flat Back Rain Barrels
Ready to find the perfect flat back rain barrel for your home and garden? We’ve looked at the best options available, focusing on durability, design, and user-friendliness to help you make a great choice. A rain barrel is a simple addition that can make a big difference for your garden and your water bill. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small patio, there’s a flat back design that will fit perfectly into your space. Here are our top five picks that stand out from the rest.
Cutest Coops Flat Back Rain Barrel
It’s no surprise that our very own rain barrel is at the top of our list. We designed it to be the perfect companion to our coops, but it’s a fantastic standalone addition to any home. The flat back allows it to sit flush against a wall or fence, saving precious space while looking great. Made with the same commitment to quality as our coops, this barrel is built to last through the seasons. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who values both beautiful design and practical function in their outdoor gear. You can find it with our other coop accessories.
RTS Home Accents Premium Flat Back Rain Barrel
The RTS Home Accents rain barrel is a popular choice for good reason. Its 50-gallon capacity offers plenty of water storage, and the durable, BPA-free polyethylene construction holds up against the elements without fading or cracking. We especially like the built-in screen that filters out leaves and debris, keeping your collected water clean. A standout feature is the ability to link multiple barrels together, making it easy to expand your water collection system as your garden grows. It’s a reliable and scalable option for serious gardeners who need a flexible solution.
Good Ideas Rain Wizard Flat Back
If you’re looking for a solid, no-fuss option, the Good Ideas Rain Wizard is a great contender. Holding 40 gallons, it’s a bit more compact, making it perfect for smaller yards or for placing under downspouts in tight corners. The barrel is made from UV-resistant polyethylene, so you don’t have to worry about sun damage. Its simple, classic design blends in easily with most home exteriors. This Rain Wizard barrel is a practical workhorse that provides clean, unchlorinated water for your plants without taking up much room.
Algreen Products Castilla Flat Back Rain Barrel
For those who believe functional items should also be beautiful, the Algreen Products Castilla rain barrel is a showstopper. It features an elegant, textured finish that mimics the look of authentic pottery, adding a touch of sophistication to your garden or patio. With a 50-gallon capacity, it’s as practical as it is stylish. The flat back design ensures it fits snugly against your home, and it includes a brass spigot for easy water access. This Castilla barrel proves you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for sustainability, making it a gorgeous addition to any landscape.
RESCUE Whiskey Rain Barrel
The RESCUE Whiskey Rain Barrel brings a charming, rustic feel to any outdoor space. Its authentic whiskey barrel appearance is a definite conversation starter, but it’s also designed for performance. The 50-gallon barrel has a flat back to conserve space and includes a built-in planter top, so you can add a pop of color with your favorite flowers. It’s made from durable, recycled materials and comes with a diverter system to make setup simple. This whiskey-style barrel is perfect for anyone wanting to combine a bit of country charm with smart water conservation.
How to Install and Maintain Your Rain Barrel
Once you’ve picked out the perfect rain barrel, getting it set up is a straightforward project. With a little planning and some light seasonal upkeep, you’ll have a steady supply of fresh water for your garden and flock. Taking care of your barrel is simple, and these steps will ensure it works perfectly for years to come.
Where Should You Place Your Rain Barrel?
Choosing the right location for your rain barrel is the first step to success. You’ll want to place it on a flat, level surface directly beneath one of your home or coop’s downspouts. This ensures the barrel is stable and can collect water efficiently. A flat back design is a game-changer here, as it lets you place the barrel snugly against a wall, saving precious yard space and creating a tidy look. Placing it near your garden or coop also makes it easier to use the collected water right where you need it. Consider adding one to your list of essential coop accessories to create a fully functional and sustainable setup for your flock.
A Simple Step-by-Step Setup Guide
You don’t need to be a professional plumber to install your rain barrel. Most models are designed for simple, DIY installation and come with a diverter kit that attaches directly to your existing downspout. This kit channels water into the barrel until it's full, then automatically sends any excess back down the spout to prevent overflow. Look for models with user-friendly features like removable lids, which make it incredibly easy to clean inside or access the water from the top. Taking a moment to understand the setup can help you avoid common problems and ensure your system works flawlessly from the first rainfall.
Keeping Debris Out with a Simple Filter
One of the best features of a quality rain barrel is how it keeps your collected water clean and ready for your garden. A well-designed barrel will have a screen integrated into the top, which acts as a simple but crucial filter. This screen stops leaves, twigs, and other debris from contaminating your water supply. Just as importantly, it also prevents pests like mosquitos from getting inside to lay eggs, keeping your backyard healthier. Many models also include a removable lid, which is a game-changer for easy cleaning and for scooping out water with a watering can. These thoughtful features ensure your rainwater stays fresh and your system runs smoothly.
Your Seasonal Maintenance Checklist
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your rainwater fresh and your barrel in top shape. For the spigot to work properly, it needs a little help from gravity, so make sure your barrel is slightly elevated on a stand or cinder blocks. This provides enough pressure for the water to flow easily through a hose. At the beginning and end of the gardening season, give your barrel a good rinse to clear out any sediment or algae. It’s also a good idea to periodically check the mesh screen on top to clear away leaves and debris, ensuring water can flow in freely. This simple care routine protects your investment, just like the regular upkeep on your customizable coop.
Getting the Most From Your Rain Barrel
Once your rain barrel is set up, you can start thinking beyond basic water collection. With a few simple strategies, you can turn your barrel into a powerful tool for your home and garden. These tips will help you maximize your water storage, streamline your gardening chores, and find new ways to use this amazing free resource. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, to create a more sustainable and beautiful outdoor space.
Need More Water? How to Connect Multiple Barrels
If you live in an area with infrequent but heavy downpours, a single barrel can fill up surprisingly fast. To capture as much of that free water as possible, you can connect multiple rain barrels in a series. This process, often called "daisy-chaining," allows overflow from the first barrel to flow directly into the second, and so on. This setup dramatically increases your storage capacity, giving you a much larger reserve to draw from during dry spells. Many modern flat back barrels are designed with this in mind, featuring connection points that make it easy to link them together with a short hose. It’s a straightforward way to ensure you’re making the most of every storm.
Creating an Overflow System
A full rain barrel is a great problem to have, but you need a plan for what happens when it keeps raining. Without a system to handle the excess, water will spill over the top and can pool around your home’s foundation or your coop, potentially causing damage. Thankfully, managing this is simple. Most barrels have an overflow valve near the top, and all you need to do is attach a standard hose to direct the extra water to a safe location. You can guide this overflow to another part of your garden, a thirsty tree, or a low spot in your yard that could use the moisture. This turns a potential problem into another smart watering solution for your property.
Connecting Your Barrel to a Drip Irrigation System
Your rain barrel can do more than just fill a watering can. For truly efficient watering, connect it directly to your garden's irrigation system. By attaching a soaker hose or a simple drip line to the barrel's spigot, you can deliver water slowly and directly to the base of your plants. This method is fantastic because it minimizes evaporation and ensures the water gets right to the roots where it’s needed most. It also saves you the time and effort of manual watering. Using a rain barrel is a perfect way to save water for your garden, lawn, or outdoor plants, keeping them healthy and hydrated with minimal fuss.
Creative Ways to Use Your Harvested Rainwater
Your garden and coop aren't the only places that can benefit from harvested rainwater. Because it's naturally soft and free of the chlorine and minerals found in tap water, it’s perfect for a variety of household chores. You can use it to wash your car without leaving spots, rinse off muddy boots and garden tools, or top off a birdbath or decorative pond. It’s also great for washing windows or rinsing freshly picked vegetables before bringing them inside. Every gallon you use from your barrel is a gallon you don’t have to pay for, making it an easy way to reduce your environmental footprint and save a little money.
Answering Your Rain Barrel Questions
Adding a rain barrel to your yard is a fantastic step toward sustainability, but it’s natural to have a few questions before you get started. From safety to seasonal care, let's walk through some of the most common concerns so you can feel confident in your choice.
How Can You Prevent Mosquitos?
The last thing you want is for your water-saving barrel to become a breeding ground for mosquitos. Thankfully, preventing this is simple. The key is to choose a rain barrel with a secure lid and a built-in screen. This physical barrier keeps mosquitos, thirsty critters, and falling leaves out of your water supply, ensuring it stays clean and bug-free. A well-designed barrel, like the RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel, features a screen right inside the lid, making mosquito prevention practically effortless. Just make sure the lid is always on tight, and you’re all set.
Preventing Algae Growth
Keeping your collected water clean and clear is key, and that means stopping algae before it starts. Algae thrives on two things: sunlight and nutrients. When a rain barrel sits in direct sun all day, the water warms up, creating a perfect incubator for green gunk. The easiest fix is strategic placement. You can significantly reduce this risk by placing your barrel in a shaded spot, like on the north side of your house. Another smart move is to choose a dark-colored barrel, as opaque materials block the sunlight algae needs to grow. Finally, keeping leaves and other organic debris out of the water helps starve any potential algae. This is another reason why a barrel with a tight-fitting, screened lid is so important—it keeps the water clean and the algae out.
Is It Safe for Kids and Pets?
When you have curious kids or pets, safety is always the top priority. An open container of water can be a hazard, which is why a secure lid is non-negotiable. Look for a rain barrel with a lid that fits snugly and is difficult for little hands to remove. This ensures that no one can accidentally fall in. Many modern barrels are designed with safety as a primary feature, offering an attractive and functional solution that gives you peace of mind. You get all the benefits of rainwater collection without adding a worry to your list.
How Do You Winterize Your Rain Barrel?
To keep your rain barrel in great shape for years to come, a little winter prep is essential. As temperatures drop, any water left inside can freeze, expand, and potentially crack the barrel. Before the first hard frost, you’ll want to empty the barrel completely. Once it's drained, disconnect it from your downspout and move it to a sheltered spot like a garage or shed. This simple seasonal task protects your investment and ensures your barrel is ready to go as soon as the spring rains arrive.
Why You Must Disconnect Your Barrel in Winter
It might seem like a small chore, but disconnecting your rain barrel before winter is one of the most important things you can do to protect it. The reason is simple physics: when water freezes, it expands. If you’ve ever forgotten a can of soda in the freezer, you know the messy result. The same principle applies to your rain barrel. Any water left inside will turn to ice, and the force of that expansion can easily crack the plastic, damage the spigot, or split the seams. This simple act of seasonal prep ensures you don't have to replace your gear come springtime.
Storing Your Barrel to Prevent Damage
Once your barrel is completely empty, the next step is to store it safely for the winter. Disconnect the diverter from your downspout and move the barrel to a sheltered location like a garage, basement, or shed. Storing it indoors protects the plastic from becoming brittle in the freezing temperatures and prevents any damage from heavy snow or ice. If you don't have indoor space, you can turn the barrel upside down and place it in a protected spot outdoors, like under a deck. This simple task protects your investment and makes sure your barrel is ready for the first spring rains.
Matching Your Barrel to Your Home's Style
A rain barrel should be a beautiful and functional addition to your home, not an eyesore you have to hide. Gone are the days of plain, industrial-looking barrels. Today, you can find them in a wide range of colors and textures designed to complement your home’s exterior. Whether your style is rustic, modern, or traditional, there’s a barrel to match. You can explore a whole collection of rainwater barrels with finishes like woodgrain, sandstone, and slate. Take a moment to consider your home’s color palette and choose a design that enhances its curb appeal.
Real Talk: What Owners Think
One of the best ways to feel confident about a purchase is to hear from people who are already using the product every day. When it comes to flat back rain barrels, owners have plenty to say. We’ve gathered the most common feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect, from the features people rave about to the simple solutions for common hiccups. This is the real scoop from gardeners and homeowners just like you.
The Pros: What Owners Love Most
Across the board, users are thrilled with how simple flat back rain barrels are to get up and running. Many mention that the installation is straightforward, allowing them to start harvesting rainwater almost immediately. The design is another huge plus. People love that the flat back sits flush against a wall, looking tidy and saving precious space in a yard or garden. The aesthetic appeal, often resembling a classic wooden barrel, gets a lot of praise for blending beautifully with home and garden decor. Functionally, owners appreciate the sturdy construction and thoughtful features like a removable, screen-covered lid that makes cleaning easy while keeping debris and pests out. These barrels are a perfect complement to our customizable coops, creating a sustainable and stylish backyard ecosystem.
The Cons: Common Issues and Easy Fixes
While most users are very happy, it’s always helpful to know about the small adjustments some people make. A frequent comment involves water pressure. Because rain barrels rely on gravity, you might find the water flow from the spigot is slow if the barrel is on the ground. The good news is, this is an easy fix. Simply elevating your rain barrel on a few cinder blocks or a sturdy, level stand will increase the pressure and make filling a watering can much faster. Some users also mention making minor tweaks to the spigot for better flow or ensuring the lid has a perfectly snug fit. Taking a moment to double-check all the connections during setup usually prevents these little issues. These small points aside, overall satisfaction is incredibly high, and these barrels are a valued addition to any garden or coop setup. When you design your coop, planning for details like rain barrel placement can make your entire system work seamlessly from day one.
Dealing with Overflow and Potential Water Damage
A full rain barrel is a great problem to have, but you need a plan for the excess water. Without a proper overflow system, that extra water can spill out and pool right next to your home’s foundation or your coop, which can lead to water damage over time. The simplest fix is to attach an overflow hose. This lets you direct any surplus water safely away from structures and into a garden bed or another part of your yard. For a more automated solution, look for a downspout diverter. This handy device channels water to your barrel until it’s full, then automatically sends the rest back down the spout, preventing overflows before they happen. Taking the time to manage overflow is a key part of protecting your property and making the most of your rainwater collection system.
Where to Buy Your Flat Back Rain Barrel
Once you’ve decided on the perfect flat back rain barrel, the next step is finding where to purchase it. You have plenty of options, from big-box stores to specialty online retailers. Thinking through where you buy is just as important as what you buy, as it can impact price, support, and overall satisfaction.
The Best Places to Buy Online and In-Store
You can find quality rain barrels at most major home improvement stores and online marketplaces. Retailers like Home Depot and Amazon carry popular models, such as the RTS Home Accents barrel, which is known for its sturdy, flat back design. For a perfectly coordinated look, we offer a flat back rain barrel designed to match the style and quality of our coops. This ensures your entire backyard setup is both functional and beautiful, creating a cohesive look that complements your home and garden.
Tips for Finding a Great Deal
A rain barrel is an investment that saves you money over time, but you can also find ways to save on the initial purchase. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales at home and garden stores, especially in the spring. Some retailers, like Home Depot, may offer a discount for opening a new store credit card, which can be a great way to reduce the cost. It’s also worth checking with your local municipality, as many offer rebate programs for water-saving devices like rain barrels, giving you cash back on your purchase.
What to Look for in a Warranty and Support
A solid warranty and a clear return policy are signs of a quality product and a reputable seller. Before you buy, check the details of the warranty and see what the return process looks like. For example, Home Depot often offers a 90-day return window on these items, giving you plenty of time to make sure it’s the right fit. I also recommend reading recent customer reviews to see what others say about the product's durability and the company's customer service. This little bit of research provides peace of mind and helps ensure your new rain barrel will last for years.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the rainwater collected in the barrel safe for my chickens to drink? Generally, yes. Rainwater is naturally soft and free from the chlorine found in tap water, which makes it a great choice for your flock. The main thing to consider is your roof material. If you have a standard asphalt shingle, metal, or slate roof, the water is perfectly fine. However, you should avoid collecting water from roofs that have been treated with harsh chemicals or have a lot of moss and lichen. Keeping the barrel's screen clean will also ensure the water stays fresh for your chickens.
How much maintenance does a rain barrel really need? You’ll be happy to hear that rain barrels are incredibly low-maintenance. The most important task is to periodically check the screen on top and clear away any leaves or debris to ensure water can flow in freely. Once or twice a year, it’s a good idea to give the inside a quick rinse to wash out any sediment. The only other task is preparing it for winter by draining it completely and storing it in a sheltered spot to prevent cracking from ice.
Will my rain barrel overflow during a heavy storm? This is a common concern, but modern rain barrels are designed to prevent it. Most come with a diverter kit that attaches to your downspout. This clever device channels water into your barrel until it’s full, and then automatically sends any excess water back down the spout. This means you get a full barrel without ever having to worry about flooding or water pooling around your foundation.
Do I need a specific type of gutter to install a rain barrel? For the most part, no. The installation kits that come with most flat back rain barrels are designed to be compatible with standard residential downspouts, whether they are the common rectangular shape or round. The process involves cutting a section of your downspout and fitting the diverter in its place, which is a straightforward project that doesn't require any specialized gutters or professional help.
How much water can I realistically expect to collect? You might be surprised by how quickly your rain barrel fills up. A good rule of thumb is that for every inch of rain that falls, you can collect about 0.6 gallons of water per square foot of roof area. This means that even a brief shower on a small section of your roof can easily top off a 50-gallon barrel, giving you a substantial supply of free water for your garden and coop.