A rain barrel paired with a rain chain offers an eco-friendly way to collect rainwater while adding a decorative touch to your outdoor space. If you're curious about how to set up your rain barrel with a rain chain, here’s everything you need to keep in mind.
The first step is selecting the right rain chain for your rain barrel. It's essential to pick one that can handle a high volume of water. A rain chain with a high-water flow index is your best bet, as it will ensure the water flows efficiently from the gutter down to the barrel, especially during heavy rainfall.
Shop Rain Chains
Once you’ve chosen the ideal rain chain, proper installation is crucial for its efficiency. To get the best results, make sure to hang your rain chain perfectly vertical from the gutter with the rain barrel placed underneath. This will allow water to flow smoothly without any obstructions or splashing. If the chain isn't hanging straight, it might cause water to spill over or not flow efficiently into the rain barrel.
Using a Rain Chain Installation Kit is crucial as well. Installation Kits allow for much better water flow between your gutter and your rain chain. The tube on the Rain Chain Installation Kit will help redirect water properly onto your rain chain!
Shop Installation Accessories
Now that your rain chain is properly installed, it’s time to attach it to the rain barrel. There are two main ways to do this, depending on the design of your rain barrel.
The most common and recommended method is to attach your rain chain directly to the grate or mesh that sits at the top of the rain barrel. This method helps preserve the integrity of the barrel by keeping the grate intact, which prevents bugs, debris, and leaves from entering the barrel. You can easily secure the chain using some wire from a local hardware store or some Lightweight Accessory Chain. This ensures the water flows directly into the barrel without compromising its functionality.
In cases where you can’t attach the rain chain to the top of the barrel, you may choose to remove the grate entirely and run the chain directly into the barrel. However, this method is only recommended if there is no other way to secure the rain chain to the top. Without the grate, the water may be more susceptible to contamination from leaves, debris, or insects. It's also possible to hang the rain chain so that it ends right above the grate or top of the rain barrel. Just be aware that the rain chain could sway in very windy conditions.
Shop Installation Accessories
Pairing a rain barrel with a rain chain is a simple, efficient, and beautiful way to collect rainwater for your garden. By choosing the right rain chain, ensuring proper installation, and securely anchoring the chain to the barrel, you can enjoy the benefits of rainwater collection while enhancing the look of your outdoor space.
