How to Set Up a Rain Barrel System

Overview

A rain barrel system can harness nature to water your garden, lawn and indoor plants. You can save money on your water bill and cut down on waste. Installing a rain barrel system is a do-it-yourself project that can be completed in one afternoon.

Step 1

Trace the drain cover on the lid of the 55-gal. barrel. Drill a hole big enough for the jigsaw blade, then use the jigsaw to cut out the hole for the cover.

Step 2

Cut the wire mesh slightly larger than the drain-cover opening using snips. Attach the wire mesh to the drain cover using a plastic zip tie.

Step 3

Apply a bead of epoxy caulk under the lip of the drain cover with a caulking gun. Insert the drain cover into the barrel lid and press it down firmly so that the epoxy gets a firm hold.

Step 4

Drill a hole for the faucet 6 inches from the bottom of the barrel using a hole saw.

Step 5

Wrap plumber's tape around the threads of the faucet and apply a thin bead of caulk around the inner lip. Insert the faucet into the hole. Hold the faucet from the outside while threading the securing nut from the inside. Tighten the securing nut with a wrench.

Step 6

Cut the 1-inch diameter PVC pipe to 6 inches long using a hack saw. Drill a hole about 4 inches from the top of the barrel using a 1-inch hole saw.

Step 7

Insert the PVC pipe halfway into the hole. Apply a bead of epoxy caulk between the pipe and the outside of the barrel. This piece acts as an overflow tube.

Step 8

Attach the lid to the barrel by screwing it into place. Position the barrel near a downspout from the house.

Step 9

Cut the downspout about 1 foot above the top of the rain barrel using a hacksaw.

Step 10

Attach the flex elbow to the downspout by screwing it into place using self-drilling screws and the appropriate drill attachment.

Step 11

Attach the other end of the flex elbow to the drain spout on the top of the rain barrel using a clamp.

Step 12

Level the rain barrel using gravel or wood block supports. Check the angle with a 4-foot level.