Rain Barrel Construction Guide

Parts included

• 1 Spigot
• 1 Downspout adapter
• 1 Flexible connector hose
• 3 Hole Saws
• 1 Drill Bit
• 2 Rubber seals
• 2 Screws

Additional supplies needed

• Safety glasses
• Drill
• Measuring tape
• Pencil/Marker
• Level
• Screwdriver
• Scissors

Constructing the barrel

Step 1: Choosing a location

• Choose a downspout that is easily accessible.
• Make sure the ground is level and firm.
• Keep the barrel within three feet of the downspout.

Choosing a downspout for the rain barrel; www.flickr.com/photos/8068581@N02/956956981

Step 2: Setting up your location

• Use sand or gravel to help level the area.
• Elevate the barrel on a cinder block or bricks. This will increase the water pressure out of the spigot.

Setting up a base for the barrel; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Step 3: Installing the spigot fitting

• Decide where you want the front of the barrel to be and measure up ten inches from the bottom.
• Mark the hole and drill using the small, 1¼-inch hole saw.
• Insert the threaded rubber seal into the hole while pinching the seal for easier insertion.
• Thread the spigot into the seal until it is firmly in place and the spigot points down.

Drilling a hole for the spigot; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Step 4: Installing the inlet fitting

• Go to the opposite side of the barrel and measure down three inches from the top and mark that spot.
• Drill a hole with the medium, 1½-inch hole saw.
• Pinch the rubber seal and insert it into the hole.

Step 5: Marking the diverter hole

• Lay your level across the top of the barrel toward the downspout and mark a dot on the center of the downspout.
• Be sure the barrel is placed onto the elevated surface before marking the downspout.

Marking the diverter hole; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Step 6: Drilling the diverter hole

• Using the large, 2 1/8-inch hole saw, drill a hole in the downspout at the spot marked.

Drilling the diverter hole; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Step 7: Installing the diverter

• Squeeze the sides of the diverter and insert it into the hole in the downspout.
• Make sure that the cup part is facing upwards, and the diverter does not get twisted.
• Screw the two screws into the holes in the downspout diverter to hold it in place.

Installing the diverter; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Step 8: Connecting the barrel to the downspout

• Connect the fill hose to the end of the downspout diverter and press it in firmly.
• Connect the other end of the hose to the water inlet on the barrel and press it in firmly. The hose can be cut if needed to shorten the length.

Connecting the barrel to the downspout; Photo taken by Kathleen Connally

Maintenance information

Regular maintenance

• Inspect the barrel regularly for any leaks.
• Clear any debris that may be clogging downspouts/gutters or inside the barrel.
• Ensure spigot and inlet are functioning properly.

Winter maintenance

• It is critical to disconnect and empty your barrel before winter. This ensures there is no water to freeze and crack the barrel.
• Reconnect the barrel in the spring and continue use.