Build a rain barrel for outdoor watering
If you’re starting your homestead or thinking about it, one thing you can start with is gathering rainwater. In this post, I will guide you on creating a rainwater gathering barrel(s).
When you live out in the country or try to live more simply, every little bit counts; that’s especially true when it comes to water. Water keeps everything on the homestead going, from the garden to the animals. In South Georgia, when summer hits, temperatures get high, and the rain can slow down, it makes sense to think ahead. A rain barrel lets you catch what nature gives for free and save it for later. It’s a simple setup with a big payoff—less stress on your well (or lower water bills), and a ready supply when you need it most.
Benefits of Collecting Rainwater
Ways collecting rainwater can benefit are;
- Conserves Water – Rainwater is free. Whether you’re on a municipal system or drawing from a well, collecting rainwater helps reduce the strain on your primary water source—especially during dry spells or drought conditions.
- Use Collected Water for watering plants. Plants love rainwater and capturing water is free from chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals found in some water systems. Using it on your garden promotes healthier growth, and you’ll often see greener, more vibrant plants.
- Reduces Erosion – By controlling the flow of water from downspouts, rain barrels can help reduce soil erosion on properties, especially those with slopes.
- Reduces Stormwater Run Off – Rainwater harvesting helps reduce runoff, which can carry chemicals and pollutants into local waterways. It also promotes conservation by using what nature freely provides. Environmentally friendly.
- Provides an Emergency Backup – If there is a power outage or if your well is acting up. You can use collected rainwater to water livestock, garden, cleaning, non-drinking purposes.
- Good for the Soul – using things that you already have makes you feel good especially when you know you’re helping the environment.
- Creating a rainwater collection system is easy to do.
How to Build Your Rainwater Collection System
Collecting rainwater is easier than you think. There are several practical ways to create a rainwater collection system, ranging from super simple setups to more advanced configurations—perfect for homesteads, backyards, or even small gardens.
One way to save money is to look for 50-gallon food-grade barrels for sale on Facebook Marketplace or other discounted marketplaces. You can also buy the kit, which includes a rain barrel, from Amazon.
The Classic Rain Barrel
Building the classic rain barrel is suitable for beginners, small gardens, porches, and patios.
How It Works
A food-grade barrel (typically 50-55 gallons) is placed under a downspout to collect water from your roof.
Basic Setup
- Barrel with a lid and screen to keep out debris
- Spigot or hose bib near the bottom
- Raised on cinder blocks or a wooden stand
- An optional overflow valve or hose at the top
Pros: Cheap, simple, and easy to maintain
Cons: Limited water storage (fills quickly in heavy rain)
Tip: If you grow herbs or tomatoes, this method will save you trips to the hose.
Multi-Barrel System
The Multi-Barrel System is set up like a barrel chain. This system is best for medium gardens, small livestock watering, and long dry spells.
How It Works
Multiple barrels are connected with hoses or PVC pipe. When one fills, the overflow runs into the next.
Setup Additions
- All barrels must be level
- Use bulkhead fittings or flexible tubing to link them
- Install an overflow valve on the last barrel
Pros: Increases storage without a complex setup
Cons: Takes up more space; requires a flat, level area
Tip: This setup can collect over 200 gallons from a single summer storm depending on your roof size.
Window Box or Rooftop Collection for Urban Spaces
Window Box or Rooftop Collection for Urban Spaces are best for Apartment patios, small container gardens, city dwellers.
How It Works
Small gutter systems attached to balconies or shed roofs direct water into a smaller barrel or bucket system.
Pros: Even renters or urban gardeners can collect rain
Cons: Not suitable for large-scale use
Tip: Place the container where roof runoff naturally drips—like under a corner of your porch roof.
Downsides of Collecting Rainwater
Mosquitoes love standing water, so it’s important to take a few precautions to keep them from turning your rain barrel into a breeding ground.
- Keep the Top Covered with a Fine Mesh Screen. This is the first and most effective step. Use a fine mesh screen (like window screen or aluminum bug mesh) to completely cover the opening where rainwater enters the barrel.
Secure it with bungee cords, a barrel ring, or screw it in place. This keeps mosquitoes from being able to land on the water and lay their eggs. - Use the Water Regularly. Don’t let rainwater sit unused for weeks at a time.
Mosquitoes need about 7–10 days to hatch from eggs into larvae. By using the water every few days, you keep it moving and make it less hospitable for pests. - Add a Mosquito Dunk (for Organic Gardens). Mosquito dunks are donut-shaped tablets made from a natural bacterium that is safe for plants, animals, and people, but deadly to mosquito larvae. You can float one in your barrel, or break off a chunk for smaller containers. These are sold at garden centers and farm supply stores and last about 30 days.
Tip: If you ever spot little wigglers (larvae), drain the barrel immediately, scrub it clean, and refresh with the next good rainfall.
Final Thoughts
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. It all depends on what you want to achieve and what you have available, like your roof size, land layout, and how much water you need. I recommend starting small, especially if you are new to homesteading and collecting rainwater. Even one 50-gallon barrel can make a difference. I would love to hear your experience with rainwater collection. Leave a comment.
