Rain Barrels

Why Rain Barrels?

Rain barrels are a useful way to capture rainwater from your roof to be used for around-the-house tasks like watering your lawn and garden or washing your car. Rain barrels can also help reduce the amount of storm water leaving your property and are a great way to save on your water bill during the hot summer months. Managing stormwater at your home is critical to improving the health of our streams and rivers.

If you are a Pittsburgh Water customer, you may now apply for a Rain Barrel rebate. Please visit this link for more information.

Our Rain Barrels

Our sustainably sourced high capacity rain barrels are made locally and can be adapted to fit in almost any location. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of rain barrels sold we are experts in sustainable stormwater management.

We carry two models of rain barrels, the UpstreamPgh Barrel and the Hydra.

We also carry downspout diverters and various downspout parts that are recommended to properly install your new rain barrel. A downspout diverter allows you to direct flow away from your rain barrel during the winter months to prevent freeze damage. Please contact aaron@upstreampgh.org for questions.

Installation

We are not currently installing rain barrels ourselves, but we have several certified rain barrel installers who you may contact to receive a quote for installation. Our certified contractors will arrange pick up, delivery, and installation of any rain barrel ordered through our store.

If you wish to install the barrel yourself please review the maintenance and installation guide.

Maintaining Your Rain Barrel

Rain barrel maintenance is key to ensure your rain barrel is functioning and will last for years to come. Please follow these maintenance steps:

Weekly:

• Drain your rain barrel (ideally within 48-72 hours after a rain event)

Monthly (or after a big rain):

• Clean debris from filter basket

Every Fall:

See our Fall Maintenance Guide for 4 Steps to Follow Before the First Big Freeze

• Completely drain your rain barrel by opening the lowest spigot (this may require you to tilt it to the side to get as much water out as possible). Leave the spigot open to ensure any water that does accumulate will flow out.
• Inspect your downspout and diverter to ensure it is working properly. Switch your diverter (if equipped) to the bypass position. If you do not have a diverter you should remove the downspout and redirect it to a garden or grassy area.
• Optional – Cover your rain barrel with a tarp to prevent debris and snow/ice accumulation.

Every Spring:

• It’s time to collect when the nighttime temperatures are consistently above freezing. Pay attention to freeze warnings if you decide to start collecting before May.
• Inspect your downspout diverter to ensure it is working properly. Switch your diverter (if equipped) to the collect position [include diagram of diverter]. If you do not have a diverter you should reconnect the downspout to the rain barrel.
• Inspect your rain barrel to ensure it is holding water and all plumbing fittings are working.

Other Resources

Building your own rain barrel is sustainable and a great way to save money. If you are interested in building your own rain barrel, please check out the resources below.

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