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Home
Step 1: Learn
Online Course
WORKSHOPS
Step 2: Pick A Rebate
Rain Barrel Rebate
Free Rain Barrels
Native Plant & Tree Rebate
Compost Bin Rebate
Rain Garden Rebate
Columbus Business Rebates
Step 3: Get Your Rebate
OPTION 1: IMMEDIATE DISCOUNT VENDORS
Option 2: Submit for Reimbursement
Resident Resources
FAQs & Rules
Composting
Invasive Plants
Lawn Care
Mosquito Prevention
Native Plants & Trees
Native Plant Backyard Challenge
Street Tree Programs
Rain Barrels
Rain Gardens
Water Quality
Business Resources
Business Rebates
Contact
Rain Barrels
Conserve Water & Save Money
Homeowners, renters, and property owners can conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff by installing a
rain barrel
. Rain barrels collect and store water that runs off your roof and would normally be directed to the street. You can use the collected rain water to water your lawn, gardens, or even wash your car. It's a great way to save money and reduce your water usage. It is not recommended to drink or bathe in it because rainwater is not considered potable aka drinkable water. Your plants and flowers will love it though!
Preparation
Consider Your Landlord, HOA & Zoning Regulations First:
Do you
live in an HOA, city limits, or historic district? Check with your local city, HOA, and/or historic district to ensure you can install a rain barrel - especially if it will be on the front or side view of the property. Some areas have rules or regulations about where you can put a rain barrel. If you rent, check with your property owner or manager or lease before installing a rain barrel.
Location, Location, Locatio
n:
Consider the location of your rain barrel on your property. You will need to hook it up to a downspout. Where is a downspout, and is it convenient to your garden? Does that downspout capture rain off most of your roof or only a small portion of your roof? Remember, you want to capture the most in order to save the most water. Also, you will want to elevate it off the ground in order to get decent water pressure. The higher elevated, the faster it will flow. Elevate it on some cinder blocks or a sturdy stand.
Installation
How to Install a Rain Barrel
:
Watch
this EarthMnded Rain Barrel installation video
. If you prefer reading,
here is a copy of the EarthMinded RainStation Installation Guide
that will come with your rain barrel. Please note, Franklin Soil and Water CANNOT install rain barrels for you. Luckily, they aren't too hard to install. If you need help, ask family, friends, or neighbors!
Maintenance
Rain Barrel Replacement Parts
:
Sometimes, the parts wear down over time, and you might need a replacement. Luckily, it can be pretty easy to find replacement pieces. Try searching for the missing part that you need from
RainBarrelParts.com
,
The Rain Barrel Depot
, and
Rain Brothers
. You can sometimes find them on Amazon too.
How to Winterize a Rain Barrel
:
You need to "winterize" your rain barrel. This will help prevent wear and tear and prevent it from freezing and cracking in the winter. The EarthMinded Diverter Kit comes with a winterization cap, so it is very easy! You just disconnect the diverter from the downspout and insert the winter cap into the downspout. We recommend storing your rain barrel under roof cover in a garage, shed, or carport if possible for the winter. This will prevent rainwater, snow, and ice from entering and freezing and busting your rain barrel. If it is not possible to store under roof cover, turn the barrel upside down and put a brick on top of it to weigh it down. Depending on the weather each year, you will want to disconnect your rain barrel around November 1 and hook it up around April 1 - pending whether. Empty and disconnect it before a hard freeze.