Rainwater Catchment Barrel
Collect free rainwater from your roof for irrigation and reduce runoff.
Materials / Tools
- Food-grade barrel, diverter kit, bulkhead/spigot, base blocks, screen
## Overview A single 55-gallon food-grade barrel under a downspout can capture hundreds of gallons over a rainy season. This guide covers the simplest safe setup.
## Materials - 55-gallon food-grade barrel with lid - Downspout diverter kit - Spigot and bulkhead fitting - Cinder blocks or paver base - Mosquito screen
## Steps 1. Level a paver or block base near the downspout. 2. Install the bulkhead fitting near the bottom for the spigot. 3. Cut the downspout and attach the diverter according to kit instructions. 4. Connect the diverter hose to the barrel inlet. 5. Keep the lid sealed and add screen to any openings to stop mosquitoes. 6. Use the overflow to water nearby plants or route to a second barrel.