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> Make Your Own Rain Barrel
by Lisa Goodrich
The "Water, Water Everywhere" article is in the September 2009 issue of the Sierra Sentry; here are the directions for making a rain water collection system.
Tools:
Electric Drill
15/16” Drill Bit
Saber Saw (you can use a hand drill and hand saw)
Supplies:
Clean Plastic Drum (55 gallon best, use only barrels that have carried food products)
¾” Spigot (with male threads)
PVC Cement
Caulk
Directions:
1. Drill 15/16” hole at the first even part of the barrel, about 6” to 8” from the bottom.
2. Screw ¾” spigot into hole (should have a snug fit)
3. When spigot is about ¾ of the way in, apply PVC cement to threads and finish tightening
4. If using a downspout, use a saber saw to cut a hole in the lid to fit the spout. After inserting downspout, caulk around the hole.
5. Other option: Take off the lid of the drum or trash can and cover the opening with a fine fiberglass screen. Place the container where water flows off your roof.
6. Elevate barrel on 2 or 3 cement blocks to allow easy access to the spigot. If you want more pressure, raise the barrel higher above ground.
7. Add a second spigot at the top of the barrel so you can direct the overflow through a hose into a specific part of your yard.
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