What Are the Benefits of Rain Barrels?

There are many reasons to use rain barrels.  If you look closely, you will see that more and more homes are using rain barrels.  However, it is far from a new idea.  Catching rain water is a very old tradition, for many civilizations. 

Here are a few things to think about when considering a rain barrel:

As water storage needs change, the number of barrels in a system can follow suit.  Most all rain barrels can be linked together.

Rainwater is free of the additives, such as chlorine and fluoride, that can regularly be found in tap water.  This makes for much healthier plants, especially fruits and vegetables.  Additionally, rainwater is slightly acidic which is a plus for many plants.

Rain barrels can divert a limited amount of storm water from roofs, reducing strains on urban creeks and storm systems.  Rain barrels can also help prevent erosion around your own home.

If you are currently using rain barrels, please share your usage tips with your fellow Yardiacs!