Guilt-Free Green Tip #123: Use a Rain Barrel

Welcome to a regular blog feature called Guilt-Free Green Tips. These will be easy action steps you can take to be a little greener, and each mini post will feature one tip. Choose the ones that appeal to you, and learn what eco benefits a single, simple step can make.

Rainwater collection dates back to ancient civilizations, from simple clay pots in Southeast Asia to complicated cistern systems of the Roman Empire. Only in the last decade, with the expansion of the green movement, has collecting rainwater become a more common practice in the U.S.

And what exactly does a rain barrel do? Placed under a shortened downspout, rain barrels capture water from your roof and gutters. Whether you purchase one ready-made or make your own, a rain barrel is an easy, sustainable way to reuse water that would otherwise just sink into the ground.

Use it to water your lawn, shrubs and flower gardens; wash your car, bike or house windows; clean yard tools and other outdoor equipment. Note: Rainwater is not considered drinkable and is best not used on veggie gardens since rooftop contaminants and bird poop may filter in.

How Does It Help?

• You save money. According to the EPA, Americans use 40% more water during the summer on their lawns and gardens. By using free water from a rain barrel, you can reduce your water bill up to $35 per summer month.
• You grow better plants. Garden plants and soil prefer natural “soft” rainwater to the harsh additives found in tap water. It’s highly oxygenated, which makes plants more drought-tolerant and helps build healthier root systems.
• You conserve water. Water from your roof and gutters normally just falls to the ground as runoff where it mixes with dirt, oil, pesticides and other contaminants before heading into the storm drain. A rain barrel captures that wasted water and stores it for reuse. During peak summer season, one 55-gallon rain barrel emptied weekly can save homeowners 1,300 gallons of water.
• You help your community. Having your own water source reduces the burden placed on the municipal water supply, especially during the busy summer months. It also reduces the risk of local flooding and comes in handy during drought restrictions.
• You save time. Instead of watering your yard by hand, you can hook up soaker hoses to your rain barrels and let them water your plants — at the roots where it’s most needed — while you take a nap.