How To Build A Rain Barrel
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by: georgewonderman
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More and more people are returning to the use of rain barrels. With water shortages becoming more commonplace over large areas of the country and the importance of water conservation in general being raised in social consciousness, it seems a natural solution.
People decide to store rainwater for different reasons. Use of rainwater is a legal way to save lawns and gardens when watering becomes limited or banned. Others turn to rain barrels to keep their water bills down. Water routed from rain barrels and cisterns can be used, not only for watering plants and grass, but for washing, bathing and mostly any water use other than consumption or cooking.
Many people concerned with conservation and maintaining green lifestyles use rain barrels with water conservation as their primary goal.
Rain barrels can be purchased commercially or made from recycled wooden or plastic storage barrels. The basic requirements include the following items: 1. Rain gutter and downspout 2. Barrel or other large container 3. Debris screen 4. Solid lid 5. Distribution device
Your existing rain gutters will take care of the first item needed. If not, installing them will be an important first step. A downspout will divert the rainwater into the waiting container.
Rain barrels can be wood or plastic, new or recycled. If a recycled barrel is used, make sure you know what the barrel has stored in the past to avoid tainting the water with harmful residues. Childproof your rain barrels with tight fitting lids. Rain barrels need a distribution outlet in the form of a spout with a valve or a piece of hose.
Rainwater is good for plants because it is naturally soft and free from chemicals. Recycling rainwater rather than using potable supplies for watering lawns and plants reduces the stress on water supplies to municipalities. When heavy rains fill the drainage system, it mixes with polutants and carries them off into the natural waterways. By harvesting rainwater to water gardens and lawns, it allows the water to drain through the rock beds and naturally reenter the water system in a purified state.
Use of rain barrels is good for individuals because it reduces water costs and keeps gardens and lawns healthy. Additionally, whether your primary goal or a byproduct, you will contribute to water conservation and environmental safety. Try this ... Try this ... Try this ...
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