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On today’s podcast, I will discuss everything you need to know about building your very own DIY rainwater catchment system. From why you should build one, and where it should be, to the details of how to build one.

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If you’re looking for an easy way to save on your water bill or just want to be more eco-friendly, or even level up your preparedness, building a rainwater catchment system is a great project!

Why Should You Build a Rainwater Catchment System?

Rainwater is a free resource that can be incredibly useful. Here are some reasons why you might want to collect it:

1. Water Conservation

Using rainwater reduces the amount of water you need from the tap. This is great if you’re on a municipal water system and want to lower your water bill or if you’re using well water and want to conserve your resources.

2. Energy Savings

If you’re using well water, every time you turn on the faucet, your pump uses energy to pull that water up from the ground. A rainwater system, especially if it’s gravity-fed, saves energy by eliminating the need for a pump.

3. Emergency Preparedness

Having stored water on hand can be incredibly useful in case of an emergency, like a drought or if your water supply is interrupted.

Where Should You Put Your System?

Location is key when setting up a rainwater collection system. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Rainfall

Consider how much rain you get. For example, the average roof can collect over 600 gallons of water per inch of rainfall. You’ll want to place your system where you can collect as much rain as possible.

2. Purpose of the Water

Are you using the water for your garden, for household needs, or to fill up a pond? The answer to this question will help you decide where to put your system. If it’s for the garden, you might want the barrel near the garden. If you’re using it for household use, closer to your house might be better.

3. Roofing Material

If your roof is made of metal, that’s ideal for rainwater collection. If it’s made of asphalt shingles, you might consider more filtration before using the water for drinking or washing.

What You’ll Need for a DIY Rainwater Catchment System

Building your own rainwater catchment system isn’t complicated. Here are the basic components you’ll need:

1. Barrels or IBC Tanks

You’ll need something to collect the water in. Food-grade plastic barrels work well, and you can often find them cheap on Craigslist. IBC tanks are another great option but because they are clear you may want to get a IBC tote cover to prevent algae build up (and make them look a little nicer).

2. Downspout Diverter

This is what catches the water from your roof and directs it into your barrel. It’s a small device you attach to your gutter system that allows water to flow in while keeping out leaves and large debris.

3. First Flush Diverter

This piece ensures that the first bit of rain, which often contains dirt and debris from the roof, gets diverted away from your water collection barrel. You can buy one or even make one yourself using PVC pipes and a ping-pong ball.

4. Screens and Filters

You’ll need screens to catch any small debris that sneaks through the diverter. Filters can be added if you want to use the water for drinking, but if you’re just watering your garden, screens will do the trick.

5. Overflow Valve

Once your barrel is full, the overflow valve ensures that excess water is safely diverted away from your home or system.

6. Spigot

Finally, you’ll need a spigot at the bottom of the barrel to get the water out. You can hook a hose up to it, or use a watering can to transport the water to your garden.

Parts List

• Rain Harvesting Downpipe First Flush Water Diverter Kit
• Downspout Diverter
• 250 Gallon Rain Harvest Collection Tank
• Rain Barrel Quarter Turn Ball Valve Spigot with Bulkhead Fitting
• Rain Barrel Connector Kit

Caring for Your Rainwater System

After setting up your system, there are a few things you’ll need to do to keep it in tip-top shape.

1. Clean the Screens

Make sure to clean your screens regularly to prevent clogs.

2. Check for Algae

Algae can grow if sunlight gets into your barrels. Keep your barrels covered, and if you need to, you can use a little hydrogen peroxide to kill algae. It’s safe and won’t harm your plants.

3. Winterize Your System

If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, you’ll need to drain your system in the winter to prevent freezing. You can also build a small structure around the barrels and insulate them if you want to keep the water usable year-round.

Other Rainwater Collection Ideas

If you want to go beyond barrels, here are a few other options:

1. Passive Water Harvesting

By using berms and swales (earth mounds and shallow ditches), you can slow down water on your property and help it soak into the ground near your trees and gardens.

2. Ponds

I have a small pond near my garden where I collect rainwater. Not only does it provide water for my plants, but I also keep koi fish in it, which adds fish waste—a natural fertilizer for my garden!

Conclusion

A rainwater catchment system is a great way to conserve water, save on energy costs, and be prepared for emergencies. Whether you go for a simple barrel setup or something more elaborate like a pond or passive harvesting system, it’s a project that can really pay off.

If you’re ready to give it a try, start small with a barrel, and see how much rainwater you can collect. You might be surprised at how much you can save!

Other Helpful Links

• Basic rainwater collection calculations
• Big Berkey Water Filtration System
• https://www.tenthacrefarm.com/2013/10/front-yard-rainwater-catchment/

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