Outdoor Living
Rain Barrels for a Lower Water Bill and Happier Garden
Rain barrels that collect free water for your garden — capacity, materials, and the setup that actually works.
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A rain barrel is one of the simplest ways to save water and money. It collects rainwater from your downspout — free water that would otherwise run into the storm drain — and stores it for watering your garden. Your plants prefer rainwater (it’s softer and free of chlorine), and your water bill shrinks.
The setup is simple, and the payoff is immediate.
What actually matters
Capacity. A 50-gallon barrel is the sweet spot for most homes. It fills quickly in a rainstorm and provides enough water for regular garden watering.
Material. Look for a food-grade, UV-resistant plastic barrel. It won’t degrade in the sun and won’t leach chemicals into the water.
Spigot and overflow. A good barrel has a spigot at the bottom for easy watering and an overflow port to handle heavy rain. Some have a linking kit to connect multiple barrels.
Screen. A mesh screen on the top keeps out debris and mosquitoes. It’s essential.
The picks
For a durable, easy-to-install barrel, the FCMP Outdoor 50-gallon barrel is the one we recommend — food-grade plastic, a spigot, an overflow port, and a mesh screen.
For a more attractive option, a decorative rain barrel looks like a planter or a whiskey barrel and blends into the landscape.
For a budget option, a rain barrel kit with diverter includes everything you need to connect to your downspout.
The honest tradeoffs
A rain barrel is only useful if it rains. In dry climates, it may sit empty for months.
The water pressure from a rain barrel is low (gravity-fed). It’s fine for a watering can or a soaker hose, but not for a sprinkler.
How to choose
- Durable, functional? FCMP Outdoor 50-gallon.
- Attractive, blends in? Decorative rain barrel.
- Budget, complete kit? Rain barrel kit with diverter.
FAQ
How much water does a rain barrel collect? A 1,000-square-foot roof collects about 600 gallons per inch of rain. A 50-gallon barrel fills quickly.
Is rainwater safe for plants? Yes — plants prefer it. It’s softer and free of chlorine.
Do I need a pump? No — gravity provides enough pressure for a watering can or a soaker hose.
A rain barrel is a simple way to save water and money. Free water for your garden, and a smaller water bill.
Prices and availability are accurate as of the date noted on the product and are subject to change.
