Rainwater harvesting, made practical
Plan a rainwater system that fits your home and goals.
Clear guidance for collecting, storing, pumping, filtering, and using rainwater—from a first barrel to a complete off-grid setup.
Start where you are
Plan your system
Understand the basics, estimate supply and demand, and check the rules that shape your project.
Choose equipment
Compare tanks, pumps, fittings, filters, controls, and other equipment for your setup.
Use and maintain it
Keep stored water and equipment working through cleaning, repairs, and seasonal care.
Explore RainwaterGuide
Browse practical guidance by the part of the system you are planning, choosing, or maintaining.
Getting Started
Rainwater harvesting fundamentals, planning, laws, and reference guidance.
Rain Barrels & Water Storage
Rain barrels, tanks, cisterns, IBC totes, and portable storage.
Collection, Plumbing & Controls
Roof collection, tank plumbing, fittings, monitoring, and controls.
Pumps & Pressure
Pump selection, water transfer, pressure, and pump controls.
Filtration & Water Safety
Rainwater filtration, purification, testing, and safety boundaries.
Irrigation & Garden Use
Garden watering and irrigation supplied by stored rainwater.
Maintenance & Repairs
Cleaning, prevention, repair, sealing, and seasonal protection.
Buying Guides
Secondary utility archive for product roundups.
How a rainwater system comes together
1. Collect
Guide runoff from the roof through screens, gutters, and first-flush hardware.
2. Store
Match barrels, tanks, or cisterns to your available supply and intended use.
3. Move
Select pumps and controls that deliver the flow and pressure your setup needs.
4. Treat
Use filtration, purification, and testing appropriate to the intended application.
5. Use
Put stored rainwater to work and maintain the system for dependable operation.
Latest guides
Use rainwater with clearer information
Intended use, local rules, treatment needs, and water quality all matter. Start with the safety guidance, then learn how RainwaterGuide approaches practical recommendations.