Rain barrels come in small (Rain Barrels under 50 gallons) medium (50 gallon Rain Barrels) and large (60 gallon and larger Rain Barrels) - to fill any rain water collecting need. When you decide what size you need, here are some rain water saving tips to get the most out of your rain barrel.
Tip #1
If a barrel was used to hold a chemical or toxin it should not be used as a rain barrel. If the barrel was used to hold peppers or pickles, etc you way want to wash it out with water. Over time the smell will subside.
Tip #2
If you would like to paint or decorate the rain barrel, check the label on the paint to be sure it will adhere to what the barrel is made of, either plastic, wood or some other material.
Tip #3
If the barrel has mold in it, you can use vinegar and water to clean it out. Be sure the rain barrel is thoroughly rinsed after cleaning.
Tip#4
A screen at the intake point of the rain barrel helps to keep mosquitos and bugs from laying eggs in the rain water. Mosquito dunks will kill any mosquito larva that may develop and not harm the water.
Tip #5
You can increase water pressure supplied by your rain barrel by elevating it. This has a limit to how much pressure you can realistically get this way, though. For example, you probably won't get enough pressure to run the water through a sprinkler. Also, one rain barrel most likely won't have enough rain water to water a lawn. You will need to link several rain barrels together for enough water.
More tips on Rain Barrels and setup
