Rain Barrels - Not Old-Fashioned

A rainbarrel could save 55,000 gallons of water per year.

Rainwater collection has long been used in dry states and places where people are urged to conserve water. With water bills rising, however, more people are turning to conserving rainwater to use on their gardens, to freshen sidewalks, and to wash their cars. A rainbarrel could save 55,000 gallons of water a year. An inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof can produce 632 gallons. What's more, rainwater contains no chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which are hard on plants. Collection also helps reduce storm runoff, a growing problem caused by acres of concrete in the neighborhood.

Lack of rainfall in many places and the high price of water elsewhere is making people think twice before turning on the hose. Additionally, the editors of This Old House say that, in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, some people are looking for an alternative source of water in case they are faced with another catastrophe. A rainbarrel has a spigot near the bottom where you attach a hose, a "mosquito donut" floating on the surface, an overflow valve near the top, and a childproof screen on top of the barrel. A wooden barrel can be adapted for the purpose. To get the most from your barrel, consider adding an overflow tank to your system. It's a second or third barrel connected to the first or second one with a hose.

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