The advantage of using rain barrels

For centuries those who settled on this land before us used everything they could around them in order to survive. They used every part of the animals they killed. If they needed a seat to sit in they used what nature has provided in order to make a seat. They also took advantage of the rain. They would set up gutter systems to control where their water run off went to. This was very important then and is even more important now.

Ok so here is the trick. You can either go to a home improvement store and buy rain barrels or you can make them. Both ways cost about the same. I recommend buying the ones with a water tap on the bottom of them so it will be easier to use the water you collect. If you are making one be sure to include a valve so that you can turn your water tap on and off. Gravity should be sufficient enough to provide water pressure at your nozzle at the bottom of the barrel. Now here is the key to rain barrels....placement. Where you choose to put your barrels is of key importance. Two main areas to keep in mind are on a down spout of a gutter system and also under your condensation line from your air conditioner. If it doesn't rain often where you live you can surely make up for it by catching the water from your A/C.

The term for this type of water is called grey water because of what elements are usually found in it. For general use this water is excellent for irrigation and watering of plants. You can even go as far as hooking up a filtration system and use the water for cooking, bathing, or even drinking. Another good advantage of having stored rain water is that in times of crisis where water is in short supply you can use this water to fill toilets, wash clothes and dishes.

Now if you live in an apartment you can still take advantage of rain water. For about $20.00 you can buy every thing you need to make a mini gutter system and a 5 gallon bucket to catch rain water from a window. You can use this water just the same as I suggested above.

Conserving power and water whenever we can is crucial for living in junction with our environment. These simple and easy suggestions I am making in my blog will carry savings over year after year. Not to mention these suggestions will make your home more efficient as well as safer and healthier for you and your family.