Why the Rain Barrel Boom Is Real
Across the country, homeowners are rediscovering the simple wisdom of rainwater harvesting. The appeal is obvious. First, it’s a gift from the sky that can significantly reduce your municipal water bill, especially if you have a large garden or live in a region
with summer watering restrictions. Second, your plants will thank you. Rainwater is naturally soft, slightly acidic, and free of the chlorine and other treatment chemicals found in tap water, which can be harsh on sensitive plants and soil microbes. Finally, it’s a powerful act of conservation. By capturing runoff, you reduce the strain on local stormwater systems, which helps prevent erosion and pollution in nearby streams and rivers. It’s a win for your wallet, your garden, and your local ecosystem.
First, Check If It’s Legal
Before you buy a single barrel, do a quick check of your local and state regulations. The good news is that most states actively encourage rainwater harvesting. However, a few, particularly in the arid West, have complex water rights laws that can place restrictions on the practice. States like Colorado and Utah, for example, have specific rules about how much water you can collect and what you can use it for. These laws are rooted in historical systems where downstream users have rights to water flow. While outright bans are now rare for residential collection, some municipalities or homeowners’ associations (HOAs) may still have rules regarding the aesthetics or placement of rain barrels. A quick search on your state’s Department of Natural Resources website or a call to your local water authority can provide clarity and prevent any future headaches.
The Wind, The Roof, and The Runoff
The headline’s warning to “watch the wind” isn’t just about gales knocking over your barrel. It’s about what the wind carries. Your roof is a large, flat surface that collects more than just rain. It accumulates bird droppings, dust, pollen, and airborne pollutants that settle out of the atmosphere. When it rains, all of this gets washed directly into your gutters and, potentially, your rain barrel. The material of your roof is another major factor. Asphalt shingles can leach petroleum-based chemicals and granules. Older homes might have lead flashing. Moss-covered roofs can introduce a high volume of organic matter that promotes bacterial growth. This collected water is a cocktail of everything that’s landed on your roof, making it unsuitable for drinking without extensive filtration and purification. For garden use, it’s generally fine, but understanding the source is key.
Best Practices for a Clean, Safe System
A successful rainwater harvesting system is a clean one. Start with your gutters—keep them free of leaves and debris that can decompose and foul your water. Next, install a screen over the barrel’s intake to filter out larger debris like leaves and twigs, and to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the standing water. For a cleaner catch, consider a “first-flush diverter.” This simple device diverts the first few gallons of runoff—which carries the highest concentration of contaminants—away from your barrel. Your barrel should be opaque to prevent algae growth (which needs sunlight) and have a spigot placed a few inches above the bottom to avoid siphoning up any sediment that settles out. Lastly, address the physical wind risk. A full 55-gallon barrel weighs over 450 pounds. Ensure it’s on a stable, level platform (like cinder blocks) and consider securing it to your house to prevent it from tipping, which poses a serious safety hazard.
