Even if you don't have a garden, you can save a lot on water costs with your own rain barrel on the balcony. However, there are some special rules that a rain barrel in the garden does not have. Here you will find all the important information if you want to supply yourself with stored water on the balcony.
The rainwater that falls on the balcony can be used
Which rain barrel is the right one?
size
You probably put your rain barrel on the balcony because you don't have your own garden. You therefore need a smaller volume because you need less irrigation water on average. In addition, a large bin takes up too much space and seating. However, if you install a filter, you do not have to use the rainwater exclusively for watering the flowers. Purified water is also suitable for household use.
Note: Always consider the statics when you set up a rain barrel on the balcony. A filled container can weigh up to several tons.
Look
Conventional rain barrels (53.99€) in dark green are not a pretty sight. Especially not on the balcony, where the models are difficult to hide. However, the trade now offers handsome objects, for example in the form of a wine barrel. Alternatively, you can find out here how to cover your water butt yourself.
Any disadvantages
- Little water gain due to small volume.
- Must be placed directly on a downspout.
- Rainwater could start to stink.
- Few opportunities to build a pedestal to mount a drain tap.
- mosquito larvae in summer (a lid is recommended here).
Hibernate the rain barrel on the balcony
Overwintering a rain barrel on the balcony is easily possible. To do this, you should drain the model by at least two-thirds of the water volume. If a layer of ice forms, you should break it up regularly. You can also wrap an insulating film around the bin.