153+ Shed With Downspouts

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Introduction: Rainwater Harvesting with a DIY 153+ Gallon Shed Downspout System Ready to collect free water for your garden and reduce your water bill? This step-by-step guide will show you how to build a simple and effective rainwater harvesting system using your shed's downspout and a large capacity container. This system is designed to handle the runoff from a typical shed roof and store it for later use. This example targets a 153+ gallon collection capacity.

Materials You'll Need:

• 153+ Gallon Container: A large, food-grade plastic drum or multiple smaller containers to achieve the desired capacity. Ensure it's opaque to prevent algae growth.
• Downspout Diverter: A device that allows you to redirect rainwater from the downspout into your collection container.
• Flex Spout/Hose: To connect the downspout diverter to the container inlet.
• Drill with Hole Saw Attachment: Sized appropriately for your fittings.
• Spigot/Valve: For dispensing water from the container.
• Bulkhead Fitting: To securely attach the spigot to the container.
• Screen/Mesh: To filter debris from the water entering the container.
• PVC Pipe/Fittings (Optional): For extending downspouts or creating an overflow system.
• Measuring Tape
• Level
• Silicone Sealant

Step 1: Preparing Your Container(s) Choose a level location near your shed's downspout for your container. Clean the container thoroughly with soap and water. Drill a hole near the bottom of the container using the hole saw for the bulkhead fitting. Insert the bulkhead fitting and tighten securely, applying silicone sealant to ensure a watertight seal. Attach the spigot to the bulkhead fitting.

Step 2: Installing the Downspout Diverter Cut the existing downspout above the ground, making sure you leave enough height for easy access to the spigot. Install the downspout diverter according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most diverters have a "first flush" feature that allows the initial dirty runoff to bypass the collection container.

Step 3: Connecting the Diverter to the Container Measure the distance between the downspout diverter outlet and the container inlet (usually the top of the container). Cut the flexible spout/hose to the appropriate length. Securely attach one end of the hose to the downspout diverter outlet and the other end to the container inlet. Ensure a snug fit to prevent leaks. If the container does not have a designated inlet, drill a hole near the top and use a suitable fitting with sealant.

Step 4: Installing a Screen/Filter Place a screen or mesh over the container inlet to filter out leaves, debris, and insects from entering the water. This helps keep the water clean and prevents clogging. Secure the screen/mesh in place with tape or a rubber band.

Step 5: Creating an Overflow System (Optional but Recommended) To prevent overflowing during heavy rainfall, create an overflow system. Drill a hole near the top of the container, opposite the inlet. Attach a PVC pipe and fittings to direct the overflow water away from your shed's foundation. Ensure the overflow pipe has a gentle slope to promote drainage.

Step 6: Testing and Adjustments Wait for the next rain and observe your system in action. Check for leaks and make any necessary adjustments. Ensure the downspout diverter is properly redirecting water into the container and that the overflow system is functioning correctly.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Harvested Rainwater Congratulations! You've successfully built a rainwater harvesting system. Use the collected water to irrigate your garden, wash your car, or for other non-potable purposes. Regularly clean the screen/filter to maintain optimal performance. Enjoy the benefits of free water and a more sustainable lifestyle!

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