Collect and Conserve Water for Your Garden with an Algreen Rain Barrel
Algreen Rain Barrels are an excellent way to collect and store rainwater for use in watering your lawn, garden, and indoor plants. As concerns about water conservation grow, rain barrels provide an eco-friendly solution to reduce your environmental impact and water usage. This comprehensive buying guide will cover everything you need to know about Algreen Rain Barrels to help you decide if they are right for your home.
What is an Algreen Rain Barrel?
An Algreen Rain Barrel is a large container designed to catch and collect rainwater that falls on your roof and gutters. The rainwater flows through a connecting hose from your downspout directly into the rain barrel. The barrel acts as a reservoir, storing the water until you need it for gardening, landscaping, or other outdoor uses.
Algreen offers rain barrels made from high-quality recycled plastic in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors. They are designed to be low-maintenance and weather-resistant while adding visual interest to your yard. An Algreen Rain Barrel is an intelligent way to reduce your environmental impact and harness nature’s water supply for your greenery.
How Does an Algreen Rain Barrel Work?
Installing and using an Algreen Rain Barrel couldn’t be easier. simply place the barrel underneath one of your home’s downspouts and connect the included flexible hose to redirect rainwater into the barrel. The rain barrel will begin passively collecting every drop of rain that falls on your roof.
An Algreen Rain Barrel has an overflow outlet near the top that diverts excess water away from the base of your home on heavy rain days. Many models also include a sealed screen on top to keep out leaves and debris.
When you need water for your plants or lawn, simply open the convenient spigot at the base of the barrel. The rainwater will flow out via gravity for easy watering by hand or to attach a garden hose.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Algreen Rain Barrel?
Using an Algreen Rain Barrel provides many helpful benefits:
- Saves money on your water bill by reducing municipal water usage for outdoor tasks
- Conserves water, especially in drought-prone areas
- Reduces water pollution by diverting rainwater from storm sewers
- Provides a free, natural source of water ideal for gardens and lawns
- The soft, pH-neutral rainwater is better for plants than treated tap water
- Easy to install and maintain with no pumps required
- Attractive design makes a stylish addition to your yard
Where Can I Buy an Algreen Rain Barrel?
Algreen Rain Barrels are available from a variety of home improvement retailers including Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, and True Value stores. Many independent garden centers and nurseries may also carry them seasonally.
You can often find the best selection and pricing by shopping for Algreen Rain Barrels online at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Northern Tool. Be sure to calculate shipping costs into your total price when ordering online.
What is the Price Range of Algreen Rain Barrels?
Algreen Rain Barrels are very reasonably priced given their immense value. Simple models with a basic design start at around $60-$80. The average mid-range Algreen Rain Barrel with helpful features costs $100-$150.
Larger rain barrel models in excess of 100 gallons may run $200+. Higher-end Algreen barrels made of decorative materials or with elegant finishes also top out above $200.
Overall Algreen Rain Barrels provide an excellent return on investment and will pay for themselves in water savings over their many years of service.
What Sizes Do Algreen Rain Barrels Come In?
Algreen offers rain barrels in a range of sizes to meet the needs of any home. The most popular models include:
- 50 gallon – Best for small homes or to pair two barrels together
- 80 gallon – Provides ample capacity for most homes
- 100+ gallon – Extra large barrels for heavy water usage
Make sure to take gutter length and downspout positioning into account when choosing the ideal rain barrel size for your home.
Is the Algreen Rain Barrel Durable?
Absolutely! Algreen Rain Barrels are designed to withstand outdoor elements including sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, wind, and rain.
The thick plastic construction will not chip, peel, or crack. They resist impact damage from falling debris. Rust-proof aluminum screens keep mosquitos out while letting water flow in.
Algreen Rain Barrels are tested to remain stable and balanced when completely full of water. With proper installation and maintenance, an Algreen barrel should easily last 5+ years before needing replacement.
What Materials Are Used to Make Algreen Rain Barrels?
Most standard Algreen Rain Barrels consist of 100% recycled polyethylene plastic in a molded barrel design. This extremely durable plastic maintains its integrity even when exposed to freezing temperatures, UV rays,dropped objects, and the ups and downs of Mother Nature.
Some high-end Algreen barrels feature wood-grained plastic, faux terra cotta, or real oak materials for added aesthetics. Look for exaggerated texture and patterns for unique visual interest in your yard.
How Do I Install an Algreen Rain Barrel?
Installing an Algreen Rain Barrel is a simple DIY project taking less than one hour. Follow these basic steps:
- Select the ideal location – Place barrel on a flat, stable surface near a downspout
- Elevate barrel(at least 6″) – Use cinder blocks, wood, or a stairstep platform
- Divert downspout – Disconnect downspout and attach included flexible hose to redirect flow into barrel’s inlet
- Stabilize barrel – Weigh barrel down if needed to prevent tipping
- Attach overflow hose – Connect hose to outlet and route away from home’s foundation
- Open spigot when ready to use collected rainwater!
Optional accessories like linking kits, stands, and covers are also available for enhanced setup and performance.
Does the Algreen Rain Barrel Come with a Spigot?
Yes, a spigot for conveniently draining collected rainwater is included with every Algreen Rain Barrel. The brass spigot is securely integrated into the barrel wall near the base.
Simply twist open to allow gravitational water flow. Attach a garden hose for easy access in your landscape. Close the spigot tightly when not in use.
Many Algreen barrels feature a second overflow spigot near the top as an alternate drainage method.
Are Algreen Rain Barrels Safe for Drinking Water?
Algreen specifically states their rain barrels are not intended for harvesting drinking water. Rainwater collected from your roof and gutters may contain contaminants, organic debris, bacteria, and other undesirable substances you would not want to ingest.
However, the collected rainwater is perfectly safe for its intended uses in gardening, irrigation, cleaning, and other outdoor tasks. Just take precautions to avoid accidentally ingesting.
What is the Capacity of the Algreen Rain Barrel?
Algreen Rain Barrels are available in sizes ranging from slim 50 gallon models to wide 100+ gallon versions. The number in the product name indicates the total liquid holding capacity in gallons.
This capacity ranges allows you to select the perfect rainwater harvesting system for your home based on factors like roof space, gutter length, and watering needs.
Even the smallest 50 gallon Algreen Rain Barrel will make a significant difference in conserving water. For the biggest impact, choose the largest barrel size your space can accommodate.
Does the Algreen Rain Barrel Come with a Warranty?
Algreen proudly stands behind their rain barrels by including a 10-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. This protects against defects in materials and craftsmanship.
The warranty does not cover normal wear-and-tear, damage from improper use or negligence, or acts of nature. Check the specific coverage terms if you need to submit a claim.
With proper use, an Algreen Rain Barrel should provide many years of reliable service. But it’s nice to have the backing of a strong warranty just in case.
How Do I Clean and Maintain an Algreen Rain Barrel?
Basic maintenance is recommended a few times per year to keep your Algreen Rain Barrel looking and functioning its best:
- Inspect screens – Clear any debris clogging the inlet screen
- Check spigots – Ensure spigots are sealed when closed to prevent leakage
- Clear gutters – Remove leaves and debris so water can flow freely
- Clean exterior – Wipe down outside of barrel with mild cleaner and rinse well
- Drain fully – Empty rainwater before winter if freezing temps are expected
With occasional cleaning and emptying before winter, an Algreen Rain Barrel can provide many years of optimal rainwater harvesting.
Are Algreen Rain Barrels Resistant to Freezing Temperatures?
The durable plastic construction makes Algreen Rain Barrels quite resistant to freezing and thawing cycles. However, the collected rainwater inside the barrel itself can freeze just like any water when temperatures dip low enough.
To prevent freezing damage, empty your Algreen barrel before winter if sub-freezing weather is expected in your area. Remove connecting hoses.
Optional insulation wraps or drainage plugs are available to extend your rainwater harvesting season. Or store your Algreen barrel in an unheated garage or shed over winter.
Can Algreen Rain Barrels be Connected to a Garden Hose?
Absolutely! The included spigot allows you to conveniently connect any standard garden hose to the Algreen Rain Barrel.
For even greater water pressure, attach a pressurized garden hose pump. This enables you to deliver stored rainwater across moderate distances for watering needs farther from the barrel’s location.
Connecting a garden hose to your Algreen Rain Barrel makes rainwater harvesting a breeze to integrate into your existing irrigation and watering systems.
What is the Difference Between Algreen Rain Barrels and Other Brands?
There are many rain barrel brands available, but Algreen stands apart for several reasons:
- Expertise – 40+ years specializing in rainwater harvesting
- Durability – Thick, weather-resistant polyethylene plastic
- Functionality – Screens, spigots, overflow outlets included
- Capacity – Some of the largest size barrels on the market
- Design – Stylish colors and textures to suit any home
- Value – Very reasonably priced with 10-year warranty
Other brands may cheaper in upfront cost, but Algreen provides a superior balance of quality, features, and cost over the long term.
Does the Algreen Rain Barrel Have Overflow Protection?
Yes, overflow protection is a key safety feature built into all Algreen Rain Barrels. Near the top rim you’ll find an overflow outlet that diverts excess water away from your home’s foundation.
This overflow “drain” allows rainwater to exit the barrel to prevent overfilling during heavy rainfalls. Overflow hoses are included to direct water away from structures. Overflow capacity protects your home while you safely maximize rainwater collection.
Is the Algreen Rain Barrel Eco-Friendly?
Absolutely! By harvesting natural rainwater, Algreen Rain Barrels provide a sustainable way to reduce your environmental impact in several ways:
- Conserves water by lowering municipal supply usage
- Prevents runoff from entering storm drains and sewers
- Reduces pollution by allowing rainwater to absorb into soil
- Saves energy required to treat and transport tap water
Plus Algreen barrels are themselves made from 100% recycled materials. Using an Algreen Rain Barrel is a green choice all around!
What are the Most Popular Designs of Algreen Rain Barrels?
While functionality is most important, Algreen also offers rain barrels with attractive aesthetics to complement your landscape. Some of the most popular designs include:
- Textured wood-grain – Simulates natural wood texture in neutral tones
- Decorative terra cotta – Rustic faux terra cotta finish adds Mediterranean flair
- ** Classic colors** – Available in complementary shades like stone, clay, green, and grey
- Contemporary styles – Sleek and modern shapes and finishes
New patterns and colors are frequently introduced. Browse all the options to find an Algreen Rain Barrel that aligns with your personal style while storing abundant rainwater.
Conclusion
An Algreen Rain Barrel is a versatile way to harvest rainwater for less impact on the environment and your wallet. With proper setup and maintenance they are easy to integrate into your existing irrigation and gardening systems. Choose from a range of sizes, features, and stylish designs to find the perfect Algreen Rain Barrel for your needs. Invest in an Algreen rain barrel today and enjoy the benefits of rainwater collection for years to come.