Rain barrel

By installing a rain barrel, you can collect extra water for watering your garden. The amount of water storage is limited. Additional measures are needed to make your garden water-ready.

Rain barrels come in all shapes and sizes. Their capacity can vary from 80 to as much as 800 litre. The barrels are available at many hardware stores, garden centers, and online. There are also special rain barrels in the shape of a watering can, such as the Raindrop (with a capacity of 75 litre).

You are only eligible for the disconnection subsidy if the tank overflow is connected to an infiltration facility in your own garden. An overflow is necessary in case the tank is full.

Costs

The price depends on the type of rain barrel. There are hardly any costs for labor.

Use of space

The space required for your rain barrel depends on its size.

Difficulty

You can easily install a rain barrel yourself, preferably in the shade.

Earthmoving

No earthworks are required, unless it is decided to connect underground piping.

Maintenance

Keep the leaf grate and leaf trap clean. Make sure the rain barrel is empty before the first frost.

Climate goals

Awareness and water reuse

Biodiversity

Contribution to improving biodiversity

Points of attention

  • The surface on which the rain barrel is placed must be flat and sturdy. A full rain barrel is heavy.
  • Preferably place the rain barrel in the shade to prevent algae growth.
  • Attach a short piece of hose to the tap on the rain barrel so that you can easily fill the watering can.
  • Place the barrel on a base or stand so that you can place a watering can under the tap.
  • Use a leaf guard to prevent the rain barrel from filling up with debris.
  • Ensure that the top of the rain barrel is sealed to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for insects.
  • Empty a wooden rain barrel at the first frost to prevent it from bursting due to expanding ice water. 
  • Ensure that a wooden rain barrel does not dry out to prevent leaks. 
  • Tip: connect the overflow from the rain barrel to an infiltration system in your garden instead of to the sewer system.