The best rain barrel is the one that matches your roof runoff, your garden’s water needs and your available space: a standard 50-gallon barrel from makers such as RTS Home Accents, FCMP Outdoor or Good Ideas suits most households with a single downspout, while linking multiple barrels or choosing a larger tank suits big gardens. Collapsible or decorative barrels suit tight spaces and visible placements. This guide covers capacity, materials, overflow handling, mosquito control and local rules.
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What a Rain Barrel Does
A rain barrel collects runoff from a roof via the downspout and stores it for later use on plants and lawns. Gardeners value it because rainwater is free of the chlorine in tap water and can reduce municipal water use. A barrel does not provide drinking water and should not be used for it unless a proper treatment system is installed. The water is also generally not recommended for edible plants’ leaves without checking local guidance, since roof materials and debris can contaminate it.
Rules about collecting rain vary. Some regions encourage it, and others limit volume or require registration. Check local regulations and any homeowners association rules before installing.
At a Glance: Main Options
| Product | Best for | Key stated traits | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTS Home Accents rain barrel | Standard home use with a decorative look | Maker lists a 50-gallon style barrel with a spigot, screen and overflow | Check finish and fittings; not potable |
| FCMP Outdoor rain barrel | Buyers wanting a simple, mid-size barrel | Maker lists a 50-gallon-class barrel with a spigot, lid and overflow | Plastic barrels degrade in sun without UV-resistant material |
| Good Ideas Rain Wizard | Visible placement and planter-style look | Maker markets a 40- to 50-gallon-class barrel with a decorative design | Capacity varies by model |
| Algreen rain barrel or similar | Garden owners wanting a rugged plastic barrel | Maker lists UV-resistant plastic barrels in various capacities | Confirm included fittings |
| Collapsible rain barrel | Small spaces and seasonal use | Folds flat when not in use | Often lower capacity; less rugged |
Capacities, colors and fittings differ across model years. Read the maker’s listing for the current capacity and what is included.
What to Look for in a Rain Barrel
Capacity
Typical home barrels hold about 40 to 80 gallons. A rule of thumb widely used by gardening organizations is that a small roof section can fill a barrel quickly during a moderate storm, so overflow management is essential. Larger gardens may need two or more barrels linked together, or a bigger tank.
Material and UV resistance
Most barrels are made from plastic such as polyethylene, often with UV inhibitors to prevent brittleness and algae growth. Wooden-style barrels look traditional but can be heavy and require more maintenance. Opaque material blocks sunlight and slows algae.
Spigot and outlet
A spigot near the base lets you fill a watering can or attach a hose. Raising the barrel on a stand improves flow, since low-pressure gravity feed is slow. Some people add a small pump for sprinklers or longer hoses.
Overflow
An overflow port directs excess water away from the foundation, into a second barrel or into a garden bed. Without it, a full barrel will overflow at the top, which can saturate soil near the house.
Screens and lids
A fine mesh screen on the inlet keeps out leaves, debris and mosquitoes. Mosquito breeding is a genuine concern in standing water, so make sure all openings are covered and the lid fits securely. Public health agencies recommend screens fine enough to block mosquitoes.
Diverter kits
A downspout diverter channels water into the barrel and sends the surplus back down the pipe. Some barrels include a diverter; others require a separate kit that must match your downspout shape and size.
Budget Tiers and Trade-offs
Budget tier
Basic plastic barrels from makers like FCMP Outdoor provide capacity and a spigot without frills. They suit practical gardeners. The trade-off is plainer appearance and sometimes simpler fittings.
Mid-range
RTS Home Accents and Good Ideas offer decorative designs, integrated planters or textured finishes. They suit visible locations such as front yards, and they often include screens and overflow fittings.
Premium tier
Larger tanks, barrels with built-in stands, pumps or first-flush diverters sit in the upper tier. They suit dedicated water-harvesting setups, and they usually need more planning and sometimes professional installation.
Pick X If… Decision Table
| If you… | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Want a simple, practical barrel | FCMP Outdoor or Algreen style | Straightforward design |
| Want a barrel that looks good in view | RTS Home Accents or Good Ideas Rain Wizard | Decorative finishes |
| Have a large garden | Two or more linked barrels or a larger tank | More storage |
| Have limited space | Slimline or collapsible barrel | Smaller footprint |
| Need to water through a hose or sprinkler | Barrel on a stand, possibly with a pump | Pressure is low by gravity alone |
| Live where collection is restricted | Check local rules first | Regulations vary |
Installation and Maintenance
Place the barrel on a level, solid base such as pavers, since a full 50-gallon barrel is heavy. Water weighs roughly eight pounds per gallon, so a full barrel can exceed 400 pounds. Raise it on a sturdy stand if you want better flow, and make sure the stand is rated for the load.
Fit the diverter or cut the downspout according to the maker’s instructions, and position the overflow so water drains away from the house foundation. Keep the inlet screen clean and replace damaged screens promptly. Empty and rinse the barrel once or twice a year, and keep the lid closed to limit algae, debris and mosquitoes.
In cold regions, drain the barrel before freezing weather, because ice can crack plastic and fittings. Disconnect the diverter and send the downspout back to normal use for winter.
Safety notes
Do not drink the water or use it for cooking or bathing. Be cautious using it on edible plants, especially leafy greens eaten raw, and follow local extension service advice. Keep lids secure so children and animals cannot fall in, and never leave open containers of standing water.
Alternatives to Consider
Larger rain tanks or cisterns
For serious water harvesting, above-ground tanks or underground cisterns hold hundreds or thousands of gallons. They require planning, space and sometimes permits.
Rain chains and rain gardens
If you only want to manage runoff, a rain garden or a rain chain can direct water into soil without storage.
Linked barrel systems
Connecting several barrels with hoses or fittings expands capacity using standard parts. This is a common upgrade after a first barrel proves useful.
Using Collected Water Wisely
Rain barrel water is best used on ornamental beds, shrubs, lawns and containers. Its main benefit is reducing demand on mains water during dry spells, and plants often respond well to it. Fill watering cans from the spigot, or attach a soaker hose to the outlet and let gravity do the work. Because pressure is low, a raised stand or a small pump improves flow. Aim to use the water between rain events so the barrel has room to fill again; a barrel that stays full cannot catch the next storm.
First flush matters as well. The first minutes of rain wash dust, bird droppings and roof debris into the gutter, so some systems include a first-flush diverter that discards that initial water. Clean gutters before the rainy season and check the roof material, since some roofing and treated materials are poor sources for garden water. Consult your local extension service if you plan to use collected water near vegetables or fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big a rain barrel do I need?
Most households start with a 40 to 60 gallon barrel and add more as needed. A larger garden or dry climate may justify linked barrels. The right size depends on roof area, rainfall and how much water you use.
Can I drink water from a rain barrel?
No. Roof runoff can carry bacteria, chemicals and debris, and barrels are not designed as drinking-water systems. Use the water for ornamental plants and lawns.
How do I stop mosquitoes in a rain barrel?
Use a fine screen on every opening, keep the lid on and ensure the overflow is screened. Public health agencies advise against leaving standing water open to breeding.
Is it legal to collect rainwater?
Rules vary by state, county and neighborhood. Some places encourage barrels with incentives, while others limit capacity. Check local regulations and any association rules before buying.
Do I need a stand?
A stand is not required but helps gravity-fed flow and makes it easier to fill a watering can. Make sure it is stable and rated for the weight of a full barrel.
What do I do with a rain barrel in winter?
In freezing climates, drain it, disconnect the diverter and store it or leave it open to avoid ice damage. Follow the maker’s cold-weather advice.
