To effectively raise a water barrel, strategically place bricks at the base of the downspout to elevate the barrel. This simple yet crucial step enhances the functionality and stability of your rainwater collection system.
Why Elevate Your Water Barrel?
Elevating your water barrel offers several significant advantages that improve its performance and your overall water management:
- Improved Water Pressure: Raising the barrel creates a greater gravitational pull, which in turn increases the water pressure when you dispense water through a spigot. This is particularly useful for tasks like watering plants or filling watering cans, making the process much faster and more efficient.
- Enhanced Stability: A properly elevated base, especially with solid materials like bricks, helps to stabilize the barrel. This reduces the risk of tipping, especially when the barrel is full and heavy, or during adverse weather conditions. The reference explicitly states that elevating the barrel "helps stabilize the barrel."
- Easier Spigot Access: Lifting the barrel makes the spigot more accessible, allowing you to easily place a watering can or bucket underneath without having to stoop down or place the container on the ground.
- Better Drainage and Maintenance: Elevating the barrel can also help prevent moisture buildup directly underneath, reducing the likelihood of mold or pest issues, and making it easier to clean around the base.
Step-by-Step Guide to Elevating Your Barrel
Raising your water barrel is a straightforward process that can be completed with basic materials.
- Gather Materials: Collect sufficient bricks (concrete blocks or sturdy pavers also work) to create a level, stable platform. You'll also need a level to ensure your base is even.
- Choose Your Location: Select a firm, level spot beneath your downspout where the water barrel will collect rainwater. Ensure the ground is compacted.
- Construct the Base: Carefully place your bricks in a stable configuration, creating a solid foundation for the barrel. Arrange them to distribute the barrel's weight evenly. Use a level to ensure the platform is perfectly flat.
- Position the Barrel: Gently lift and place the water barrel onto the prepared brick base. Ensure it sits securely and does not wobble.
- Connect to Downspout: Adjust your downspout (or install a diverter kit) to direct rainwater flow directly into the barrel's opening. The elevated position helps create a proper angle for efficient collection.
Essential Materials for Elevation
| Material | Purpose | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Bricks | Creating a stable, elevated foundation | Durable, stackable, readily available, cost-effective |
| Concrete Blocks | Alternative to bricks for higher lift | Strong, provide substantial elevation, very stable |
| Level | Ensuring an even base | Critical for stability and preventing tipping |
Maximizing Your Rainwater Collection System
Once your primary water barrel is elevated and operational, you can further enhance your rainwater harvesting capabilities. The reference highlights a crucial aspect of system expansion:
- Overflow Management: "Attach a standard hose to the overflow valve to direct water to another barrel or your existing detention area once barrel is full." This simple connection allows you to link multiple barrels in series, significantly increasing your water storage capacity. Alternatively, the overflow can be directed to a rain garden, a French drain, or another designated area to prevent water from pooling around your foundation or creating erosion. This ensures that excess water is managed effectively and doesn't go to waste.
