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Rain Barrels Help Save The Planet

By: George Wonderman

[ Posted On: 2008-10-26 ]

Rain barrels are coming back into popularity. The most likely reasons for this are drought situations occurring in many parts of the country as well as an increasing awareness of the need for water conservation in general.

The drivers that make people choose to collect rainwater vary. Use of rainwater is a legal way to save lawns and gardens when watering becomes limited or banned. Others turn to rain barrels to keep their water bills down. Water routed from rain barrels and cisterns can be used, not only for watering plants and grass, but for washing, bathing and mostly any water use other than consumption or cooking.

Finally, some people choose to set up rain barrels simply because they are concerned about water conservation in itself.

Setting up rain barrels can be as simple or elaborate as your pocketbook allows. Regardless of the source of your barrel, you will need the following basics:

1. Rain gutter with a downspout

2. Large collection container

3. Debris screen

4. Solid lid

5. Distribution device

Your existing rain gutters will take care of the first item needed. If not, installing them will be an important first step.The final requirement, the downspout, is needed to direct the rainwater into the barrel. Materials commonly used for rain barrels are plastic or wood, and although they can be purchased new, recycled barrels are available. If a recycled barrel is used, make sure you know what the barrel has stored in the past to avoid tainting the water with harmful residues. Solid, fitted covers ensure rain barrels will not be a danger to children. Water from rain barrels is usually distributed through a spigot or small piece of hose near the base of the barrel.

Rainwater is good for plants because it is naturally soft and free from chemicals. Even when watering bans are not in place, recycling rainwater for the sprinkler, etc. insures more water for consumption. When heavy rains fill the drainage system, it mixes with polutants and carries them off into the natural waterways. By harvesting rainwater to water gardens and lawns, it allows the water to drain through the rock beds and naturally reenter the water system in a purified state.

On a personal level, using rain barrels to collect and store rainwater helps your wallet as well as your plants. It is also good for the environment by reducing consumption and improving the quality of our natural water supplies.

Article Source: http://www.afroarticles.com/article-dashboard

About The Author: George Wonderman -- More coverage of rain barrel, go to palmettorainbarrels.com.

| View Profile & All Articles By: George Wonderman |

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