Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Rain Barrel System

Rain barrels are an eco-friendly solution for collecting rainwater that can be used for irrigation, cleaning, and even household uses. Installing a rain barrel system is a relatively simple DIY project, but mistakes in the installation process can lead to inefficiencies, maintenance headaches, and even damage to your home or garden. Understanding the common pitfalls and how to avoid them will ensure your rainwater collection system works as efficiently as possible.

In this article, we'll walk through the most common mistakes people make when installing rain barrels, and provide tips to help you install your system with ease.

1. Choosing the Wrong Location

The location of your rain barrel is crucial for both functionality and ease of use. Choosing the wrong spot can lead to a system that's inefficient or difficult to maintain.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Incorrect slope : A rain barrel needs to be placed on a slight incline to ensure proper water flow. If the barrel is level, water may not drain properly, leading to stagnation and overflow.
• Proximity to downspouts : Ideally, the barrel should be placed directly beneath the downspout from your roof to capture as much rainwater as possible. Placing it too far away will require additional piping, which can reduce efficiency and complicate the installation.
• Sunlight exposure : A rain barrel placed in direct sunlight will promote algae growth inside the barrel, which can contaminate the water. It's best to place your barrel in a shaded area to reduce the risk of algae.

How to Avoid It:

• Ensure your rain barrel is placed on a flat, stable surface that is slightly sloped toward the outlet.
• Position the barrel close to your downspout to minimize the need for long, complicated piping.
• Choose a location that is shaded or cover the barrel to prevent sunlight from reaching the water inside.

2. Using Inadequate Materials or Low-Quality Barrels

Not all rain barrels are created equal, and using poor-quality materials can lead to issues like leaks, rust, and an overall shorter lifespan of your system.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Plastic degradation : Cheap plastic barrels can degrade over time when exposed to the elements, leading to cracks and leaks.
• Rust and corrosion : Metal barrels, while durable, are prone to rusting if not properly treated or coated.
• Improper sealing: Poor-quality barrels may not have secure lids or tightly sealed fittings, allowing debris and insects to enter the barrel and contaminate the water.

How to Avoid It:

• Invest in high-quality, UV-resistant plastic barrels or food-grade barrels that are specifically designed for rainwater collection.
• If using a metal barrel, ensure it is coated with a rust-resistant finish or lined with a protective sealant.
• Ensure that all fittings are secure, and invest in a high-quality lid or mesh screen to prevent debris and pests from entering the barrel.

3. Neglecting to Install a First Flush Diverter

A first flush diverter is an essential component of a rain barrel system. It directs the initial flow of water---often the dirtiest, filled with contaminants from your roof---away from the barrel, ensuring that the collected water is cleaner.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Dirty water : Without a first flush diverter, the initial runoff from your roof can carry contaminants like bird droppings, leaves, and dust into your barrel, potentially contaminating the water you collect.
• Clogging: Dirty water can also clog the barrel's inlet and pipes, requiring frequent cleaning and maintenance.

How to Avoid It:

• Install a first flush diverter to ensure the cleanest possible water enters the barrel.
• First flush diverters are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they can greatly improve the water quality collected by your rain barrel system.

4. Forgetting to Include Overflow Protection

Rain barrels are designed to collect rainwater, but if the barrel fills up, there needs to be a way for the excess water to escape without causing damage to your yard or home.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Overflow risk : Without proper overflow protection, a full rain barrel can overflow, spilling water in undesirable places and potentially causing damage to the foundation of your house, yard erosion, or flooding.
• Water stagnation: If the barrel cannot drain properly, it may lead to stagnant water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests.

How to Avoid It:

• Ensure your rain barrel has an overflow valve or pipe that redirects excess water away from your home's foundation and garden. The overflow pipe should lead to a well-drained area or be directed into a dry well or a second rain barrel for future use.
• Install a shut-off valve or overflow kit on your barrel to control how excess water is handled and reduce the risk of flooding.

5. Not Securing the Barrel Properly

Securing the rain barrel is important to ensure safety and stability, especially during storms or high winds. A barrel that isn't properly anchored can tip over or cause injury.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Safety hazard : If the barrel is not securely anchored, strong winds or heavy rain can cause it to tip over, spilling water and potentially causing a mess or damaging plants.
• Insecure placement : If the barrel is not stable, it may be difficult to use, and you may risk injuring yourself when accessing it.

How to Avoid It:

• Anchor the barrel securely to a stable surface, such as a concrete slab or a sturdy platform, using straps or brackets.
• If you live in an area prone to high winds, consider securing the barrel to a fence, post, or other stationary structure to prevent it from tipping over.

6. Failing to Maintain the System

Once your rain barrel system is installed, neglecting maintenance can reduce its effectiveness and lifespan. Regular cleaning and checks are necessary to ensure the system continues to function properly.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Debris buildup : Leaves, twigs, and dirt can accumulate in the barrel and the downspout, clogging the system and reducing water flow.
• Pest infestation: Stagnant water or exposed barrels can attract mosquitoes, algae, and other pests that contaminate the water or damage the barrel.
• Frozen pipes: In colder climates, failing to properly winterize the system can result in frozen pipes, cracked barrels, or leaks.

How to Avoid It:

• Regularly clean the rain barrel, first flush diverter, and downspouts to remove any debris or dirt.
• In colder months, disconnect the barrel and drain any remaining water to prevent freezing.
• Check for leaks or cracks in the barrel periodically, and replace any worn parts as necessary.

7. Underestimating the Barrel's Capacity

Choosing a rain barrel that's too small for your needs can limit the effectiveness of your rainwater collection system.

Why It's a Mistake:

• Insufficient capacity : A small barrel may not collect enough water to be useful during dry spells or peak watering times.
• Frequent overflow : If the barrel fills up too quickly, it will overflow, defeating the purpose of rainwater collection and wasting water.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose a rain barrel that matches the average rainfall in your area and the amount of water you need for your garden or landscaping. You can also consider installing multiple barrels or linking several barrels together for additional capacity.
• A 50- to 80-gallon barrel is a good starting point for small to medium-sized gardens, but larger systems may be necessary for bigger yards.

Conclusion

Installing a rain barrel system is a simple and effective way to conserve water, reduce your environmental footprint, and save on water bills. However, to get the most out of your system, it's essential to avoid common mistakes like choosing the wrong location, neglecting maintenance, or failing to install critical components like a first flush diverter or overflow protection. By following these tips and avoiding the pitfalls outlined here, you can create an efficient and sustainable rainwater collection system that will serve you well for years to come.