Here's a little "DIY" for an easy water collection system.I have three of these setups now for a total of 330 gallons of stored rainwater and plan to add more barrels to each setup when the budget allows.
The pic's really explain most of how to set one up,but here's a few notes that might make it easier.
One-I inverted the barrels using the 3/4" threaded tap in the bung caps and I sealed and connected all fittings with pvc cement.
Two-the inlet was made from a plastic planter container with plenty of holes in the bottom to handle the water flow during a good rain,I simply cut snug hole with a jigsaw in the bottom of the barrel,then used a piece of steel window screen inside the planter and secured the screen with zip ties to help strain debris.Do not cement or silicone the planter in place so it can be removed and cleaned when needed.
Three-I put screen over the overflow outlet as well to keep mosquitoes from getting in and breeding,plus,the overflow not only allows you to shoot the excess water away from your home,but it let's the system flush itself everytime it rains,helping keep water it's freshest.
Do not drink rainwater collected this way without further filtration and boiling or chemical treatment.But great as is for watering the garden,washing yourself,washing dishes,flushing toilets and well you get the idea,lol.
I also used a brass hose bib valve so that a hose can be used,with the tanks elevated and full,it has pretty decent pressure at the end of the hose,and the brass will never rust.
Any questions,please feel free to ask.
The pic's really explain most of how to set one up,but here's a few notes that might make it easier.
One-I inverted the barrels using the 3/4" threaded tap in the bung caps and I sealed and connected all fittings with pvc cement.
Two-the inlet was made from a plastic planter container with plenty of holes in the bottom to handle the water flow during a good rain,I simply cut snug hole with a jigsaw in the bottom of the barrel,then used a piece of steel window screen inside the planter and secured the screen with zip ties to help strain debris.Do not cement or silicone the planter in place so it can be removed and cleaned when needed.
Three-I put screen over the overflow outlet as well to keep mosquitoes from getting in and breeding,plus,the overflow not only allows you to shoot the excess water away from your home,but it let's the system flush itself everytime it rains,helping keep water it's freshest.
Do not drink rainwater collected this way without further filtration and boiling or chemical treatment.But great as is for watering the garden,washing yourself,washing dishes,flushing toilets and well you get the idea,lol.
I also used a brass hose bib valve so that a hose can be used,with the tanks elevated and full,it has pretty decent pressure at the end of the hose,and the brass will never rust.
Any questions,please feel free to ask.