Why Install a Water Butt?
Installing a water butt is a sensible step for any gardener looking to conserve water and reduce reliance on mains supply, especially during dry spells or hosepipe bans. Capturing rainwater from your roof via downpipes is an effective way to provide your plants with a free, natural water source. Beyond the environmental benefits, using rainwater can be better for your plants as it's free from the chemicals often found in tap water.
The process itself is accessible, requiring minimal tools and expertise. Whether you're looking to supplement your watering during peak summer months or aiming for a more sustainable garden year-round, a water butt offers a tangible solution. It's a proactive measure that aligns with modern environmental consciousness and can significantly cut down on your household water bills over time.
Many water butts are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing guttering systems. The primary function is simple: collect water. However, the true value lies in its practical application for various garden needs, from feeding a lawn sprinkler to supplying a drip irrigation system. Understanding the benefits sets the stage for a successful installation.
- Harvests free rainwater for garden use.
- Reduces reliance on mains water supply.
- Environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
- Ideal for use with garden irrigation systems.
- Helps comply with hosepipe bans.
Considerations Before You Begin
Before you start, a bit of planning ensures your water butt works efficiently and safely. The most crucial aspect is placement. Identify a level, stable spot that is easily accessible for filling watering cans or connecting a hosepipe. Proximity to a downpipe is essential, but also consider the weight; a full 200-litre butt can weigh over 200kg, so a solid base is paramount.
Next, assess your downpipe. Most standard domestic downpipes are compatible, but you'll need to determine if a diverter kit or a simple hole saw attachment is appropriate for your specific guttering. Check the diameter and shape of your downpipe and the water butt's inlet to ensure compatibility. Ensure the chosen location doesn't obstruct pathways or access points to your garden.
Finally, think about how you'll draw water from the butt. Most come with a built-in tap or a threaded outlet for attaching one. If you plan to connect a garden hose or use a pump, ensure the outlet is suitable and consider purchasing appropriate hosepipe connectors or a stand to raise the butt for gravity-fed pressure.
Choosing the right spot is the most critical step for effective water butt installation.
The Installation Checklist
Setting up your water butt involves a few key stages. Follow this checklist to ensure a secure and functional installation that maximises water collection and usability.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
A stable, level surface is vital to prevent your water butt from tipping over when full. Options range from purpose-built stands, which also lift the butt for better water pressure from the tap, to concrete slabs or sturdy paving stones. Avoid placing it directly on soil or grass, as these surfaces can shift and erode over time, compromising stability.
If using a stand, ensure it's designed to support the weight of a full water butt. For a DIY base, lay down a layer of gravel or sand for drainage and compaction, then place your paving slabs or concrete blocks to create a flat, firm platform. Measure the footprint of your water butt to ensure the base is adequately sized.
Step 2: Position the Water Butt
Once the base is ready, carefully manoeuvre the water butt into its final position. Ensure it is level and stable. Check that the inlet at the top of the water butt aligns reasonably well with the intended cutting point on your downpipe. Remember, you'll need access to the tap and potentially for overflow management later.
Step 3: Modify the Downpipe
This is where most of the 'installation' happens. You'll need to cut into your existing downpipe to divert water into the butt. Many water butts come with a specific diverter kit that slots into the downpipe. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Typically, this involves measuring and cutting a section out of the downpipe and inserting the diverter, which has a hose or pipe leading into the water butt's inlet.
If you're not using a specific diverter kit, you may need to drill a hole in the downpipe at the appropriate height for a connecting hose or pipe. Ensure any cut edges are smooth to avoid damaging the connection. The diverter should direct water into the butt until it's full, then allow excess water to continue down the original downpipe. This overflow mechanism is crucial to prevent flooding around the butt.
Use a spirit level when cutting the downpipe and drilling holes to ensure a clean, straight connection that prevents leaks.
Step 4: Connect the Diverter/Inlet
Attach the diverter kit's outlet pipe or your chosen connecting hose to the water butt's inlet. Ensure a tight, secure fit. If using a hose, consider using a jubilee clip to prevent it from becoming dislodged. Check that the connection allows water to flow freely into the butt without significant leaks.
Step 5: Fit the Tap and Outlet
If your water butt doesn't come with a pre-fitted tap, now is the time to install it. Most butts have a threaded opening for a standard tap. Screw the tap in securely. If it's a plastic thread, ensure you don't overtighten it. Some taps come with rubber washers to create a watertight seal.
Ensure the tap is positioned at a height that allows you to place a watering can underneath it easily. If you plan to connect a garden hose reel or an expandable garden hose, you may need an adapter for the tap, or connect directly to the outlet if it's designed for this purpose.
Step 6: Test and Maintain
Once everything is connected, wait for the next rainfall to test your setup. Check all connections for leaks and ensure the overflow mechanism works correctly. Periodically check the water butt for debris that might clog the inlet or tap. Leaf guards on the guttering or a mesh over the butt's inlet can help keep it clean.
Regular checks ensure the longevity and efficiency of your water collection system.
Alternative Water Storage Solutions
While a traditional water butt is a popular choice, several alternatives offer different capacities, aesthetics, or functionalities for garden water storage. Each option has specific benefits that might suit your needs better.
Flexi-Tanks and Collapsible Water Butts
For those with limited space or who only need water collection seasonally, flexible or collapsible water butts are an excellent option. These are often made from durable PVC or similar materials and can be folded away when not in use, taking up minimal storage room. They are lighter and easier to manoeuvre than rigid plastic butts, though they might be less durable against physical damage.
Large Capacity Water Tanks
If you have significant garden space or a large roof area, you might consider larger water storage tanks, sometimes known as rain harvesting systems. These can range from 500 litres to several thousand litres and are ideal for providing a substantial water reserve, especially for extensive garden irrigation, vegetable patches, or even for non-potable household uses. These often require more involved installation, potentially including underground storage or professional connection to your plumbing.
Water Butt Stands and Connectors
While not a storage solution themselves, water butt stands are an important accessory. They elevate the butt, allowing for easier filling of watering cans and, crucially, increasing water pressure if you intend to connect a garden hose. The higher the water level in the butt relative to the tap, the better the gravity-fed flow. Different heights are available, offering flexibility based on your needs.
Similarly, various hosepipe connectors and adapters are available to link your water butt to different types of garden hoses, including expandable garden hoses, or to plumbing for a more permanent garden irrigation system. Compatibility is key, so check the thread sizes and connector types before purchasing.
Understanding these alternatives ensures you select the storage method best suited to your garden's scale and your water needs.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Even with careful installation, occasional issues can arise, and regular maintenance is key to ensuring your water butt remains effective and hygienic. Addressing problems promptly prevents them from escalating.
Common Issues and Solutions
Leaking Connections: Check that all hosepipe connectors, diverter kits, and the tap are securely fitted. Rubber washers or plumber's tape can help seal threads. If the butt itself is cracked, it may need repair or replacement.
Clogged Inlet/Diverter: Leaves and debris are the usual culprits. Ensure your guttering has leaf guards, or fit a mesh screen over the water butt's inlet. Periodically clear out any accumulated sediment from the bottom of the butt.
Low Water Pressure: This is often due to the water butt's position. Installing a stand to elevate the butt will improve gravity-fed pressure. Alternatively, consider a small, solar-powered pump designed for water butts.
Algae Growth: Sunlight can encourage algae. If algae becomes a problem, you can paint the exterior of the water butt with opaque, non-toxic paint, or purchase a darker coloured butt designed to block light. Cleaning the interior thoroughly will also help.
Mosquitoes: Stagnant water can attract mosquitoes. Ensure the lid is secure and that the tap is closed when not in use. Some water butts have built-in mosquito-repelling screens.
Always close the tap tightly and consider a cover for the tap outlet when not in use to prevent debris and insects from entering.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
To keep your water butt in optimal condition:
- Monthly: Check connections for leaks and ensure the tap is functioning. Clear any obvious debris from the inlet.
- Seasonally (Spring/Autumn): Thoroughly clean the water butt. Drain any remaining water, scrub the interior with a mild, non-toxic detergent (e.g., diluted vinegar or soapy water), and rinse well. Clean out any sediment from the bottom.
- Annually: Inspect the diverter kit and downpipe connection for wear or damage. Check the stability of the base and the butt itself. If the butt is to be left empty over winter in a frost-prone area, drain it completely to prevent ice damage.
Proper maintenance ensures your water butt provides a reliable supply of water for years.