Rain Barrels
Last updated on July 10, 2025.
What is a Rain Barrel?
A rain barrel is a specialized stormwater storage container connected to an eavestrough downspout from a house or building.
The use of rain barrels for rainwater collection is an effective way to reduce the demand for water during the peak summer season. It is estimated that lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40 percent of total household water use during the summer months.
A typical half-inch rainfall will fill a 50- to 55-gallon barrel. It can be estimated that approximately a half gallon of water per square foot of roof area can be collected during a one-inch rainfall. A 2,000-square-foot roof can collect about 1,000 gallons of water (accounting for about 20 percent loss from evaporation, runoff and splash).
What Can Rain Barrels Do?
Rain barrels and rainwater storage have the following benefits:
- Decreases water consumption, resulting in energy, operational, and capacity savings from the wastewater and water treatment and pumping processes for both consumers and the municipality
- Decreases stormwater runoff at peak storm times, reducing the chance of basement flooding resulting from an exceeding of sewer capacity as well as associated pollution of watercourses
- Decreases the burden on the City's wastewater treatment facilities and drainage systems during periods of heavy rainfall
- Provides naturally softened, chlorine-free water for greener lawns and gardens, delicate houseplants, auto cleaning, and window washing
- Directs water away from foundations
- Conserves water during hot, dry summer months
- Prevents mosquito growth and captures debris
Installing a Rain Barrel
- Pick your rain barrel. There are many different shapes, sizes and styles. Depending on your roof size and water needs, you might want to install more than one barrel or connect multiple barrels together.
- Choose your location. Install your rain barrel at the base of the downspout on your house, garage or shed. Most homes have four downspouts (one at each corner), so choose one that is easy to access. Place the barrel on a flat, raised surface to make filling a watering can easier.
- Attach the rain barrel. Place your rain barrel next to the downspout and mark where you need to cut it. Trim the downspout and attach the rain barrel using the connector that came with it.
- Manage the overflow. Make sure your rain barrel's overflow hose directs extra water away from your home, ideally into a garden or grassy area.
Rain Barrel Storage and Maintenance
To keep your rain barrel in good shape for the next season, it is important to prepare it before freezing temperatures arrive:
- Disconnect the rain barrel from your downspout and attach a temporary extension or flexible tubing to direct it away from your home.
- Empty the barrel completely and turn it upside down to prevent water from collecting and freezing inside, which can cause cracks.
- If you have space, storing it in a garage or shed over the winter is ideal.
Where to Purchase a Rain Barrel
Rain barrels are back in stock! Rain barrels are available for purchase at Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road, Tuesday to Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., while supplies last. For inquiries, please contact ojibway@citywindsor.ca by email.
Residential Stormwater Finance Barrel Rebate
Windsor residents can receive a rebate for installing a rain barrel on their property. Learn more and apply online at Residential Stormwater Finance Barrel Rebate.
Phone: For general information, call 311. For detailed inquiries, call (519) 255-6543 ext. 6127
Email: emp@citywindsor.ca