Rain Barrels

Did you know that the average roof collects 600 gallons of water for every inch of rain? By collecting some of that storm water, homeowners could actively participate in protecting the water quality in their community. Rain barrels can be purchased in a number of sizes, colors and configurations.  As a DIY project, rain barrels can be easily assembled from a variety of readily available parts.

Rain barrel installation is also a relatively simple process which can be configured in one of two ways:

  1. Disconnected Rain Barrel - the downspout is completely disconnected from the overall drainage system and overflow water from the barrel is discharged on to the surface.

  2. Diverted Water Rain Barrel – water is diverted from the downspout to a rain barrel. Once the barrel is full, overflow water is directed back to the downspout and on to the overall drainage system.

Disconnected Rain Barrel Diverted Water Rain Barrel

Photo: City of Evanston Photo: Colorado State University

 Other considerations: 

  • If your rain barrel has any openings on top, mesh screening can be used to cover the hole to prevent mosquitoes from using the water in your barrel to breed.

  • Make sure your barrel is installed on a level spot. Remember one gallon of water weighs about eight pounds, so a full rain barrel can weigh up to 500 pounds. You will need a safe and solid base to keep children and pets safe! Also ensure that small children cannot gain access to the water in the barrel.

  • Depending on where you live you might be required to use a diverted water rain barrel or to obtain a disconnect permit before installing a disconnected rain barrel.

  • With a barrel that has been disconnected from the storm water system, you will also need to determine where to direct the water coming from the overflow. Ohio drainage laws provide guidance and should be applied, especially in densely populated urban and suburban areas.

  • If you have the space, adding a rain garden near the rain barrel is a great way to manage overflow water. Linking several barrels can also allow for the capture of more storm water and decrease the amount of overflow water.

  • All overflows should be directed away for the foundation of your home and away from your neighbor’s property.