How to save water on a rainy day

Rainwater savers, cisterns, barrels, and rain chains

Copper rainwater chain
Jim McCausland

Install a rain barrel

Rain barrels typically hold about 50 to 60 gallons each―enough to irrigate houseplants or pots on the deck. The best type is made of recycled food-grade plastic (or use a recycled wine barrel like the one pictured), with an intake line, spigot, overflow attachment, screen cover to keep out leaves, and removable solid cover.

Position the barrel beneath a downspout; to keep the rainwater pure, remove the solid cover an hour or two after rainfall has washed pollen and other pollutants off the roof.

Rain barrels cost about $100 to $150 each.

NextAdd a cistern

Copper rainwater chain

Previous Slide Hang a rain chain

Copper rainwater chain

Next Slide Add a cistern

2 of 4
Copper rainwater chain

  • Loading comments...

Add your comment

The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject or we might delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk * indicates a required field.

500 characters remaining

More Ways To Get Sunset

Advertisement

 

JavaScript must be enabled to use this Calendar module.

MOST POPULAR
1
Best romantic getaways

Make this Valentine's Day weekend—or any weekend—special at one of these dreamy retreats

Post Ranch Inn