Why use a rain barrel? Why harvest rainwater? With an ever-changing climate and unpredictable weather, most people like the reliability of guaranteed irrigation systems. Many areas throughout the US experience droughts and cities and counties enforce water regulations to prevent people from unnecessarily draining precious water from local reservoirs and aquifers. Aquifers can recede or drop, creating shortages of fresh water and an increase in conservation and restriction. In places like Tampa, Florida, this means that salt water from the gulf contaminates the aquifer, creating water restrictions and watering guidelines. Alternatives such as Rain barrels help save water, save money, and provide natural alternatives to ordinary irrigation.
So why use a rain barrel? Well, for starters, collecting rainwater and storing it provides your lawn and garden with precious water even beyond those rainy days. Rainwater collection has been around for millennia and civilizations all over the world have used rain collection devices to harvest and store rain water for the days and seasons when rain and water are scarce. Most western cultures rely on city plumbing for their water, whether it rains or not, forgetting that the cheapest place to find it is in their backyard!
Unlike older civilizations, we don't collect rainwater for consumption, we rely on the necessary filters and processing of city water to make it healthy. Rainwater, however, can be used to water plants and gardens, ultimately keeping our homes comfortable and our families healthy and happy. Rainwater is naturally softer than city water and does not contain the chemicals and additives that cities require as part of our potable water supply. This means that the water that can water your vegetables is cleaner, too!
Furthermore, Rainwater harvesting systems help save you money. Rainwater is free and most rain collection devices are installed with your existing gutter system. Most rainwater containers have a spigot at the bottom for easy use and a screen at the top to keep out bugs and debris. They come in a variety of sizes, styles and colors to help blend in or (if you like) stand out with your existing landscaping. Although there is some cost up front, most simple systems don't require much maintenance and help save you money in drier months when you might otherwise water your plants with city water.
And rainwater doesn't apply to watering regulations! Because you have your own source of water with a rain barrel, you can use that water for any watering at any time regardless of city watering ordinances. Of course, it is best to use it wisely as droughts can last a long time. There are lots of different types of rain collection and rain harvesting devices, most of which are easy to install and use. There are others, however, that allow users to install cisterns, underground water storage devices, and filtering systems in their home and yard. These types of rainwater collection systems allow homeowners to use rainwater in even more ways.
Whether you are concerned about environmental impact or the impact of the water bill on your wallet, consider installing a rain barrel to lighten both loads. Whether you live in Florida or California, there are numerous companies that are happy to install rain barrels and rainwater collection devices at your home.
Find more information at http://www.rainwaterservices.com
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