Rain water collection is often overlooked when the supply of mains water is so reliable. But there are many benefits to using rain water barrels.

Rain water barrels help the environment in a number of ways. Firstly they reduce the volume of processed water used for irrigation. We tend to think of mains water as a cheap and plentiful resource. But even without the threat of drought water treatment is expensive. The energy needed to filter, chlorinate and pump water to your home all has an impact on the environment. Add to that diminishing resources of freshwater as natural drainage routes are blocked by land coverage and you can see it makes sense to utilise truly free rainwater whenever possible.

Collecting rainwater provides a free way of irrigating the garden. Although most plants cope well with treated water they do better if given water free of mineral and chemical deposits. Using rain water is the purest way to irrigate your crops and ornamental garden.

As well as benefiting from reducing a reliance on treated water supplies, collecting rainwater also means you reduce the volume of rainwater which then needs to be processed via storm drain systems. In fact if you harvest all the rain water coming off your roof you should be able to cut your bills for water drainage. These usually include a cost for the water company managing the water which runs from your guttering system.

In times of problems with supply, you will have a back-up supply with which to irrigate, so will only need to worry about your drinking water supplies. Likewise livestock can be given collected rainwater to drink. Opting to pay for your water via a water meter and installing rainwater barrels is a great way to save money.

For more information about collecting rainwater and rainwater barrels visit the Catalan Garden site.

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