Disconnect Your Downspout and Collect the Rain

A rain barrel is a great way to lower your water bill and protect the sewer system. Rain barrels work by collecting rainwater from your downspout and rooftop and redirecting it to your lawn and garden instead!

Rain Barrel Tips

Purchasing:

• Rain barrels are available for purchase at your local hardware store such as Home Depot, RONA and Home Hardware.
• It’s best to choose a barrel that holds at least 200 liters.
• You barrel should have a mesh screen that covers the water entry to keep out mosquitoes and other pests.

Installation:

• Install your rain barrel on a strong, level surface. It can weigh up to 1,200 pounds when full! A patio or paving stone is best.
• Use an overflow hose to direct water into the garden or a grassed area where it will soak into the ground.
• Raise your barrel to create increased water pressure.
• Link multiple barrels together to hold more water.

Storage and Maintenance:

• Empty your rain barrel and bring it inside (or turn it over) before it freezes in the fall. Water left in the barrel over winter can crack the plastic walls.  

Additional Resources

Check out this information sheet for more Rain Barrel tips!

Downspout Disconnection:

Check out these tips on how to disconnect a downspout

Home & Garden:

Create a naturally beautiful lawn and garden, here’s how:

• Get inspired using TRCA’s Home and Garden Resource Page
• Choose the right plants for your space using York Region’s Water-Efficient Plant Selection Guide