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A rain barrel collects rain water from your roof and holds it for use in your garden or lawn. Collection of the roof runoff reduces the amount of stormwater flowing on your property. Properly installed and maintained, a rain barrel is a great way to conserve water and maintain outdoor plants. It is important to ensure that a rain barrel does not overflow and damage your foundation.
A 208 litre/55 gallon rain barrel will typically be filled when it rains half an inch. Note that you should never use collected rainwater for drinking or food preparation.
If you need more capacity, you can connect barrels together using the overflow tube, a short section of rubber tubing or a garden hose.
Rain barrels are typically made of recycled plastic. A rain barrel usually comes with a removable lid, brass tap, overflow tube and hose clamp. The lid should have a steel screen to keep debris out.
A downspout with a diverter is recommended when your downspout connects directly to the stormwater system. The overflow hose can direct back into your storm service connection.
An elbow diverts rainwater into your rain barrel. The overflow hose then directs from the rain barrel to the street.
If you need more capacity, you can connect barrels together using the overflow tube, a short section of rubber tubing or a garden hose.
In preparation for winter, drain your barrel and store it upside down in a shed or garage. If the barrel is left outside during the winter and exposed to the elements, the plastic may crack.
Collected rain water is not potable water. Never drink or ingest standing water that has been collected in a rain barrel. This water may become stagnant or contaminated, and is not fit for human or animal consumption.
Learn about EPCOR’s flood prevention programs in Edmonton and book a home inspection today.
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