FAQ's: Employ The Rain faq's
Employ The Rain
                                                

 
Custom Rain Barrels, Installation & Service
FAQ's

What is a Rain Barrel?

A rain barrel collects and stores rainwater from the existing gutter system on your roof.  Rain water is collected by placing the barrel under a selected downspout.  The rain water is now saved for use in the yard by simply attaching a garden hose to the rain barrel’s hose bib.  Thus, free rain water that would normally be lost to collect street pollution as it is flows into local waterways, is now available to water plants and outdoor use. 

Although our barrels are fully customizable, the basics are composed of recycled industrial grade 55 gallon drums, some vinyl hosing, a hose bib, couplings, and a screen grate to keep debris and insects out.  We offer many coloring options and customizable installation options.  

What are the environmental incentives of owning a rain barrel?

Rain barrels reduce water costs, provide "soft" water for plants and are good for the environment.  Lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40% of total household water use during the summer. A rain barrel collects rain water and stores it for when you need it most -- during periods of drought -- to water plants, wash your car, or to top off a swimming pool. It provides an ample supply of free “soft water” to homeowners, containing no chlorine, lime or calcium making it ideal for gardens, flowerpots, and car and window washing. 

A rain barrel will save most home owners about 1,300 gallons of water during the peak summer months. Saving water not only helps protect the environment, it saves you money and energy (decreased demand for treated tap water). Diverting water from storm drains also decreases the impact of runoff to streams. Essentially, a rain barrel system is an affordable way flex your environmental consciousness and provide a free consistent supply of clean, fresh water for your home. 

Is rain water really better for my plants?

Yes, rain water the best water source for our gardens. Watering plants with rainwater boosts populations of beneficial soil microbes (which can be harmed by chlorine),  prevents excessive salt buildup in the soil.and is the right pH.

Will my rain barrel be a breeding ground for mosquitos?

No, all Employ The Rain rain barrels are equip with a fine screen to keep misquotes from laying eggs in the barrel. The screen serves to purposes; to keep insects and debris (leaves and dirt from your gutter) out of the water supply. 

How much water pressure will the barrel create?

The amount of water pressure depends on how much water is in the barrel.  A full barrel create more water pressure.  Hand pumps are available to create more water pressure and are available as a accessory to your rain barrel system.

Can I have a rain barrel shipped to me?

Yes, please call to discuss shipping options.

Why does Mark Lutz have a 301 area code if he is based in Baltimore?

Mark has been loyal to his phone service provider since 1995 .  You can expect the same loyalty from Mark as a customer of Employ The Rain.