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DIY FFL PROJECTS: Rain Barrels

By collecting and storing rainwater, you can save money, improve the health of your plants, and protect the environment. Rain barrels provide the Florida homeowner with over 50 gallons of free water for their landscape each time it fills up. You can connect additional rain barrels or install an underground cistern to store even more. In addition to saving homeowners money on irrigation, rain barrels also help reduce stormwater runoff that can contribute to flooding and erosion.

A rain barrel is usually outfitted with a fine mesh screen to keep out debris and insects, a spigot for accessing the stored water, overflow portals and possibly a pump. Today’s rain barrels come in a variety of materials and designs.

Combining water harvested in a rain barrel with Florida-friendly landscaping will help you enjoy your Florida landscape year round.

  • A - Food grade barrel with lid
  • B - Hose bibb 3/4" with 3/4" male adapter to 1 3/4" od PVC expanded: 1/2 pt funnel & 5x5" fiberglass mesh
  • C - 1 1/2 " PVC id schedule 40
  • D - Put small end of Flex-a-Spout in 2 1/2 x 3 1/2" hole in lid expanded: aluminum mesh gutter strainer & 4" hose clamp
  • E - Blocks to raise barrel
  • F - Large end of Flex-a-spout attaches to downspout

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