Rainwater Collection

Why use a rain barrel?

• Conserves water
• Reduces energy
• Saves money
• Rain water doesn't contain chlorine, lime or calcium

How to set up a rain barrel

Find a suitable location:

• Place the barrel under a downspout on a raised surface (avoid locations near gas or water meters)
• The barrel's drainage spout must be at least 5 ft. from the residence

Connect downspout:

• Remove existing clamp and elbow from the downspout
• Mark the height of the rain barrel and cut the downspout to redirect it to the top of the barrel
• Pinch the end of the downspout and reinsert the elbow (if it doesn't reach, an extension is required)

How to maintain a rain barrel

• Use a screen to keep out bugs and small animals.
• Winterize by draining the barrel, leaving an open valve.
• Turn upside down and store the barrel away from its current location

Quicklinks
>> Water Conservation Handout
>> St. Albert’s Rain Barrel Brochure
>> Strathcona County’s Rain Barrel Video