Rain barrels (also known as rainwater tanks) are a smart way to collect and store rain water runoff, typically from rooftops via rain gutters. Why? In order to make use of rain water for use at a later date, to help reduce paid (utility) water usage (for economic or environmental reasons), and many do it in order to aid their own self-sufficiency. For some of us, the rainy season is fast approaching, and I’d like to suggest that as many households as possible start trying to implement a few rain water barrels to store water that can later be used for watering gardens, flushing toilets, washing clothes, washing cars, and even for drinking, cooking and other domestic purposes.
Where to find rain barrels for sale? I’ve implemented a few over the years, and I’ve been using SimplyRainBarrels.com – I consider it the ultimate source for all types of rain barrels and rain harvesting equipment. They offer hundreds of different high quality rain barrels – everything from plain plastic barrel-type designs to some super cool designs that look like garden fixtures or blend in beautifully otherwise.
If you’re living in an area where water supplies are unavailable, expensive, or of poor quality, getting a rain barrel (or few) is also the smart way to go. That way, you get it pure and direct from above and channeled into your rain water barrel system. Think about it 
Submitted by Orlando F., Wisconsin
September 26th, 2009 at 8:23 am
Welcome all to the wonderful world of rainwater harvesting! I’ve been participating for over 50 years and am blessed that it has saved me many, many dollars, conserved millions of gallons of potable water, provided great water for my Victory Gardens, pets, and cleaning projects over the years.
I have discovered the importance and valuable assets I receive from keeping my rain gutters squeaky clean all year long, here in Florida. With 3 giant oak trees, pine trees, and palm trees close to my home, I probably debris to deal with in a month than the average homeowner sees in a year. Its important to keep these gutters very clean.
For those of you who channel rainwater from your rain gutters into your rain barrels please consider a faster, cleaner, easier, safer, and user-friendly gutter cleaning tool.
Wishing everyone blessed rainwater harvesting with whatever method you are using. Bless you for “saving our water” and being economically savy. Stay well, stay safe, stay strong and God Bless America.