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The spectacular Rain Barrel
Every time it rains, one of the Earth«s natural resources is being wasted. The rain goes straight into city sewer systems which already bare a use that is often much to heavy. The water supply here on Earth can be protected/enhanced via the use of the rain barrel.
There is an ancient practice of storing rainwater for the drier months of the year. Gathering, storing, and using this water can help save you money on your water bill as well as provide a multitude of benefits to your garden. Roughly 40% of water use throughout the summer goes directly towards peoples yards and gardens. Imagine the money that could be saved if you were collecting rain water (imagine this the next time you see it raining out).
Many cities often have water restrictions throughout the summer months. When there is a lack of rain, and you are restricted from maintaining your yard or garden, this can be a huge problem! However, you could water to your hearts desire if you have stored water in a rain barrel. So not only do your plants love your use of a rain barrel, but it saves money as well!
It is quite common for rainwater to be collected from ones rough and gutter system. A rain barrel can be placed at the end of your gutter system and gather all of that water for free! If you receive a quarter inch of rain, the normal home can gather about 200 gallons of water from it. During a normal rainfall, ones rain barrel can fill in just moments.
Just by nature, rainwater is a soft water. So even if you have a well, using rainwater on your lawn and plants is a very smart move. City, country, or somewhere in-between ý using a rain barrel is operating in wisdom. Free of chemicals (chlorine, minerals, fluoride, etc), the health of your garden and plants can be insured.
Even though plants (outdoor and indoor) receive the fruits of most rain barrel use, there are also some who use it as drinking water. NOTE: Before drinking rainwater though, it should be filtered through a special treatment system ý especially if you live in or near a city. In fact, most cities demand a filtration system to be certified, and regular testing be done upon the water. Before choosing to drink the water you collect in your rain barrel, touch base with your local counsel to verify your local rules. NOTE: Just to verify ý if you are using this for landscaping purposes, filtration is NOT necessary.
Look around your home and yard, and envision all of the uses you would have for rainwater. Drinking, plants, your yard, saving the earth, or simply to save some money ý collecting water in a rain barrel is smart!
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