Rain Barrels
Advantages
A rain barrel collects and stores stormwater runoff from rooftops that would otherwise be lost to runoff and diverted to storm drains and streams . By detaining ( temporarily holding ) water , rain barrels help add capacity to the city ’ s sewer system and reduce sewer overflows to creeks , rivers , lakes , and other water sources . The collected rain water can be reused for irrigation to water lawns , gardens , window boxes or street trees . Rain barrels can be purchased on-line or they can be built .
Lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40 % of total household water use during the summer . A rain barrel collects water and stores it for when you need it most -- during periods of drought -- to water plants , wash your car , or to top a swimming pool . It provides an ample supply of free " soft water " to homeowners , containing no chlorine , lime or calcium making it ideal for gardens , flower pots , and car and window washing .
Rainwater harvesting will lighten the load on water wells as well as public water supplies . It prevents overtaxing of wastewater treatment plants , and saves you money and energy ( decreased demand for treated tap water ). Diverting water from storm drains also decreases the impact of runoff to streams , rivers , and lakes . Therefore , a rain barrel is an easy way for you to have a consistent supply of clean , fresh water for outdoor use . And best of all it ’ s FREE !
Purchasing a ( Ready-Made ) Rain Barrel
Ready-made rain barrels can be purchased from a number of companies , including hardware and garden supply stores . Below are just a few sources . ( This listing does not constitute an endorsement by the City of Arlington ).
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Ace Hardware ( different models available ) ( 866.290.5334 ) www . acehardware . com
Plow & Hearth ( several available including a pop-up barrel that folds flat when not needed ) ( 800.494.7544 ) www . plowhearth . com
Spruce Creek company ( produces the Spruce Creek Rainsaver ) ( 800.940.0187 ) www . sprucecreekrainsaver . com
Gaiam ( produces the Great American Rain Barrel ) ( 877.989.6321 ) www . gaiam . com
Rain Barrel sources ( offers an extra large system ) ( 866.912.9719 ) www . rainbarrelsource . com
Urban Garden Center ( offers the Urban Rain Barrel ) ( 866.923.1922 ) www . urbangardencenter . com