Rain barrels are an eco-friendly and cost-reducing way to collect, store, and reuse rainwater for daily purposes such as watering your lawn. However, rain barrels require a high-level of planning and maintenance that when not done properly and regularly can have disastrous consequences. Most importantly, rain barrels can cause a properly functioning and healthy gutter system to flood. Since they are connected to the rain barrel itself, gutters filled with dirt, leaves, and other sediment channel their debris to accumulate in the connection between the downspout and the rain barrel.
With no outlet for removal, the leader becomes clogged and the rainwater is prevented from reaching the tank.
So where does the rainwater go? Overflow can cause a flooded yard, flooded basement, and damage to the foundation of your home, potentially resulting in costly repairs. Even if your gutters are properly cleaned and maintained regularly, not having enough storage space for fresh rainwater can cause your barrels to overflow, especially in heavy rains. Overflow systems can be put in place to direct extra water to runoff into sewage systems, but even these measures can malfunction.
Despite the potential to clog your gutter system, rain barrels do provide a variety of benefits to a homeowner:
- Cost Reduction: According to the EPA, about 40% of a home’s water usage during the summer is dedicated to irrigating your landscaping. Rain barrels can reduce your reliance on the city municipal water system; saving your family money in the long run.
- Healthier Foliage: Rainwater does not contain the same elements that treated tap water possesses, such as fluoride. As a result, your plants will be healthier as they will receive a purer form of water.
- Runoff Reduction: Uncollected rainwater picks up various pollutants such as fertilizers, soil, and pesticides that eventually run off into local bodies of water. These pollutants can harshly affect the ecosystem of lakes, streams, ponds.
Deciding whether to implement your own rain barrel storage system for your home? Make sure to do your research and determine if installing a rainwater tank is right for your lifestyle.
Image courtesy of sedgwick.ksu.edu
