A great method to conserve water is to cut down on the amount you use on your yard through the use of a rain barrel.
With this rainwater collection system you are collecting a free natural resource which is beneficial for your plants. Rainwater contains no minerals and chemicals, including chlorine and fluorine.
Rainwater can be used on all your outdoor watering needs, including some jobs you might seem like a water of water. This includes water your plants, yard and even your car.
To get started you need to go out to a hardware store, Home Depot, Rona, etc are good examples. You will find barrels ranging in size, from 200 – 400 liters and the price ranged $80 – $130.
The price range is based on the size of the barrel and add-on features, such as mosquito netting, lids, etc. If you only plan on keeping a rain barrel until fall, then you should get a collapsible rain barrel.
The purpose of the rain barrel is to collect water from your gutter and downspouts. As rainwater runs throughout the gutters, it will be diverted to the rank, where it will be stored. You have to ensure that the rain barrel has a lid to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Once rainwater has been collected you simply attach a hose and it is ready to be used.
When installing the rain barrel you have to be sure to it raised a foot or two off the ground. A rain barrel is dependent on water pressure, therefore elevation is important. A full rain barrel can become quite heavy, to avoid it from sinking into the ground have it sit above a large patio stone or cedar blocks.
There really is no downside with installing a rain barrel as they can collect up to 90% of rainfall on your roof without the use of power. It is virtually maintenance free, and it will help you lower your water bills.
Glen Chapman
Broker of Record with Club “100″ GMAC Real Estate
www.club100realestate.com
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