It is always fun being on Fox and this time was no exception. I was asked to showcase some of the latest technology in home rainwater collection. Click here to watch a video of the segment. Here’s some more info:
- Garden Watersaver ($29.99): A nifty product designed to divert water from a downspout to be collected in a rain barrel . Rain water flows from the roof into the gutter downspout and gets captured in the Watersaver reservoir. When the reservoir fills, the water then takes the path of least resistance, which is the unit’s lower exit spout that leads, via a hose, to the rain barrel. When the rain barrel is full, back pressure occurs and the water then exits out of the upper exit spout into the normal drainage system. Available at www.cleanairgardening.com
- RainReserve ($69.99): another product allowing you to divert the flow of rainwater from your gutter into a rain barrel and use it how and when you need it. It is made and packaged in completely sustainable and recycled/recyclable material. The RainReserve Diverter Kits work in tandem with a rain barrel by attaching to a downspout and diverting rainwater from a gutter system into the rain barrel while allowing leaves and other large debris to pass through the diverter and out the downspout. On Sale for $69.99 at www.cleanairgardening.com.
- Raincatcher 4000 ($89.99): Save money and cut down on water usage by collecting up to 54 gallons of rainwater. This is one of the least expensive units in the DFW area. The aluminium mesh screen top filters out leaves, sticks or any other debris while protecting the water inside from mosquitos, varmints or pets. The overflow spigot hooks to tubing to divert excess water. The Raincatcher will be on display at the City of Plano’s Live Green Expo on April 18th. On sale through April 30th at Elliott’s Hardware in Dallas, Mesquite or Plano for $89.99.
- 60 Gallon Recycled Rain Barrel ($119.99): This rain barrel is unique because it actually started out as a food barrel, bringing over olives or peppers from overseas. It’s the ultimate form of recycling by taking this barrel and converting it into a rain barrel. People who really care about both conserving rain water and recycling will really love this barrel. It comes will everything needed to put it together, and all the holes have been drilled, too. (We also have a recycled barrel in grey, terra cotta and blue.) This is also a food grade rain barrel, which is important because it never carried any chemicals. And people should never use a barrel that has contained any type of chemical. Available at www.cleanairgardening.com.
- The Systern from Norseman Plastics ($129.99): a 55-gallon plastic barrel designed for easy installation to collect rainwater during any storm. The product has an overflow hole & tube so that excess water can be directed away from the SYSTERN in the event it fills. Each unit comes with a valve that fits into the unit, at the base, to allow for easy drainage. The SYSTERN can be placed on blocks or a stand so that the water can be emptied into a bucket or watering can or attached to a hose that is placed into a garden bed, to refill a pond, etc. The SYSTERN rain barrel will be on display at the City of Dallas’ EarthFest happening on April 17th. More information is available at www.greendallas.net. Available online at www.naturesharmonyllc.com
- 50 Gallon Rain Barrel Urn ($179.99): This barrel is cool because it blends in really well with just about any house. Although it’s made of plastic, the terra cotta color makes it look like a big pot. It also has a planter on top that keeps it from looking like a random barrel next to your house. It holds 50 gallons of water, and there is a hose that comes with it that attaches to the bottom of the barrel and also to a hook at the top to keep the hose from getting trampled. Available at www.cleanairgardening.com.
- Permeable Pavestone from Whiz Q Stone: Offers a unique alternative to traditional paved patios or driveway with a unique rainwater collection area underneath the pavers. Rain flows through the pavers into the underground storage and is then pumped up to ground level when needed for irrigation, pond use, etc… Available at: Whiz-Q Stone in Fort Worth, 817-429-0822, www.whiz-q.com
- My raincoat and hat were provided by Land’s End (www.landsend.com). Umbrellas by Cheeky Umbrella (www.cheekyumbrella.com) and rain boots by Hatley (www.hatleystore.com).