Information & FAQ
We've posted questions and answers about our rain barrels and rain harvesting in general as well as links to helpful information. If you can't find an answer that you are looking for then contact us and we'll get back to you asap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Collect Water In Rain Barrels?
Rain water is a vastly under-used natural resource that we often take for granted. There are many reasons to collect rain from your roof. Because rain water is a naturally soft water devoid of chemicals such as chlorine it is healthier for your garden, landscape and indoor plants. By harvesting rain, you will create a smaller impact on your municipal water source and reduce the amount of water you contribute to storm runoff. During the rainy months you can use the overflow on your rain barrel to divert water away from the storm system and into a permeable surface. [ More info about rainwater harvesting benefits ]
How Can I Use Rain Barrels?
- Collect rain from your roof gutters or simply in the open to water your landscaping, garden plants and indoor plants.
- Water your livestock such as horses, goats, cows, etc.
- Store potable water for emergencies or camping. (do not drink water collected from your roof without proper research and filtration)
Our rain barrels are not only used to harvest rain water. Some people have used them to store potable water for emergencies, camping or livestock. We've seen them used as outdoor showers and radiant heat for green houses. We provide customization for any situation.
What Are The Rain Barrels Made of?
We recycle 55 gallon food grade barrels from local companies. The barrel you buy may have once contained aloe, agave syrup or cola syrup. We thoroughly rinse each barrel then attach a brass hose bib and optional overflow fitting. We are pleased to customize your rain barrel any way you wish.
Can I Drink Rain Water From My Roof?
Rainwater may contain pollutants, algae and other materials that gets washed from your roof. If you had a good water purification filter and/or boiled the water it should be safe, especially if you have a metal roof. But I don't recommend it.
However, most of the water we use isn't for drinking. Even if you don't have a garden you can use the water from your rain barrel to flush your toilet, water indoor plants, lawns, wash your car and much more.
Can I Save Money By Harvesting Rainwater?
That depends. If you only have one rain barrel and only fill it infrequently then no, you won't save money. Fortunately, you can connect many rain barrels together. Each rain barrel's capacity is 55 gallons. Daisy-chain four rain barrels together and you have 220 gallons of water stored for the dry summer months. The more water you can store the less water you will need to use from your local water source.
A rain barrel is not the only way to harvest rainwater. You can collect a significant amount of water by using large water tanks or an underground cistern. In fact you can go completely off the water grid and say goodbye to your water bills. Check out this article from Mother Earth News for more information.
There may be another way for you to save money by harvesting rainwater. Some communities offer a stormwater utility discount. You will need to contact your local utility in order to determine if they off a discount program. Portland, Oregon has a program called Clean River Rewards. Visit their website at Portland Online to learn more.
How quickly will my rain barrel fill?
One rain barrel will fill in just minutes in a good downpour. One inch of rain on a 1000 square foot roof will yield around 600 gallons.
You can find how much rain falls in your area by entering your zip code at The Weather Channel.
Location
Grady Barrels is located in Junction City, Oregon just 15 minutes north of Eugene, Oregon in the beautiful Willamette Valley. I make regular trips to Southern Oregon and I am willing to deliver bulk purchases in Western and Central Oregon and perhaps Southern Washington depending on the situation. If you are further away, shipping can be arranged. Drop me a line through my contact form or call 541-554-6753.