How to Set Up a Small Space Rainwater Collection System: A Practical Guide

Even with limited space, you can set up an efficient rainwater collection system that not only conserves water but also helps reduce your utility bills. Whether you have a small patio, balcony, or a tiny backyard, rainwater harvesting is an eco-friendly way to make the most of nature’s free resource.

Small space rainwater collection systems are ideal for urban dwellers who want to minimize their environmental impact and still have enough water for tasks like watering plants, cleaning, and other non-potable uses. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to install a rainwater collection system in a compact area, exploring the best storage solutions and installation tips.

Why Collecting Rainwater in Small Spaces Makes Sense

Rainwater harvesting isn’t just for large homes with sprawling gardens. In fact, it makes just as much sense—if not more—for urban dwellers with small spaces. Whether you’re living in an apartment with a balcony or a city house with a compact backyard, collecting rainwater can offer significant benefits for your home and the environment.

1. Environmental Benefits

Collecting rainwater helps reduce the demand on municipal water systems, which is particularly important in urban areas where water consumption is high and droughts are increasingly common. By capturing and storing rainwater, you’re helping to reduce the strain on city resources and contributing to water conservation efforts.

2. Financial Savings

Water bills can add up quickly, especially if you’re using municipal water for tasks like watering plants, cleaning outdoor areas, or even flushing toilets. Rainwater collection provides a free source of water for these non-potable tasks, allowing you to save money over time. The more rainwater you use, the less treated water you need from the city, translating into lower utility costs.

3. Ease of Setting Up a Small-Scale System

Setting up a rainwater collection system in a small space is easier than you might think. You don’t need a large tank or complicated plumbing. Simple systems, like rain barrels or slimline tanks, can be installed with minimal effort, making them perfect for those with limited space and budget. Plus, modern compact designs are often easy to maintain and blend seamlessly into your space.

4. Ideal for Urban Dwellers

In urban areas where green space is limited, collecting rainwater can be particularly useful for maintaining balcony gardens, potted plants, or small backyard lawns. Rather than relying on city water, you can use natural rainwater, which is free of chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, making it better for plant health.

Pro Tip: Even in areas with low rainfall, a small rainwater collection system can still make a significant difference. Over time, the savings add up, and you’ll have a ready source of water for small-scale gardening or cleaning tasks.

Choosing the Right Storage System for Small Spaces

Selecting the appropriate storage system is key when setting up a rainwater collection system in a small space. The good news is that there are plenty of compact and space-efficient options that can fit on a balcony, patio, or small backyard. Here are some of the best storage systems for small spaces:

1. Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are one of the most popular and affordable options for small-space rainwater collection. They come in a variety of sizes, typically holding between 40 and 80 gallons of water, and are designed to fit under downspouts. Rain barrels are a great choice for patios or small backyards and can be easily connected to a hose for watering plants or washing outdoor spaces.

• Best For: Small backyards, patios, or areas with limited space near gutters.
• Pros: Affordable, easy to install, available in various sizes.
• Cons: Limited water storage capacity for larger gardening needs.

2. Slimline Tanks

For those with narrow spaces, slimline tanks offer a vertical solution. These tanks are tall and narrow, making them ideal for placement along walls, fences, or tight corners. Despite their compact design, they can store a significant amount of water, often holding between 100 and 300 gallons.

• Best For: Narrow spaces, alongside fences or walls, and urban backyards.
• Pros: Space-efficient, larger storage capacity, stylish designs available.
• Cons: More expensive than basic rain barrels, may require professional installation.

3. Collapsible Storage Bags

If you’re working with extremely limited space, collapsible storage bags are a flexible and portable option. These bags expand to hold rainwater when needed and can be easily folded and stored away when not in use. They’re particularly useful for renters or those who want a temporary solution that doesn’t take up permanent space.

• Best For: Balconies, small patios, or temporary setups.
• Pros: Lightweight, portable, easy to store when empty.
• Cons: Less durable, smaller capacity than tanks or barrels.

4. Determining the Right Capacity for Your Needs

When choosing a storage system, it’s important to calculate how much water you’ll need based on your intended uses. For example, if you only need water for a few potted plants, a 40-gallon rain barrel might be enough. However, if you want to water a larger garden or clean outdoor surfaces, you may want to consider a slimline tank with a larger capacity.

Pro Tip: Measure your available space before purchasing a storage system. Ensure the tank or barrel can fit in your desired location, and check if it can be easily connected to a downspout or other water source.

Installing a Small Space Rainwater Collection System

Once you’ve selected the right storage system, the next step is installing your rainwater collection system in a small space. Whether you’re working with a balcony, patio, or compact backyard, the installation process is straightforward with a few key considerations to ensure optimal water collection.

1. Connecting to Downspouts

Most rainwater collection systems rely on gutters and downspouts to funnel rainwater into storage tanks or barrels. For small spaces, a rain barrel diverter is an excellent option. These devices are installed on the downspout and divert a portion of the rainwater into the barrel while allowing excess water to continue through the downspout when the barrel is full.

• How It Works: A diverter is attached to the downspout, often requiring only a simple cut in the pipe. Water is diverted into the rain barrel or tank, filling it from the top.
• Best for: Small patios or yards with existing downspouts.
• Tip: Ensure the rain barrel or tank is positioned directly under the downspout to maximize water collection and minimize overflow.

2. Rain Chains for Decorative and Functional Water Collection

If you don’t have traditional gutters, rain chains can be a beautiful and functional alternative. Rain chains guide water down a series of cups or links, where it can be collected in a basin or small rain barrel below. They’re ideal for balconies, patios, and decorative setups in small gardens.

• How It Works: Rainwater flows down the chain from the roof or gutter, and is collected at the bottom. It adds a decorative element while still capturing usable water.
• Best for: Small spaces that lack standard downspouts or for a more aesthetic touch.

3. Setting Up Rainwater Collection in Areas Without Gutters

If your space lacks gutters, you can still collect rainwater by creating a simple surface water collection system. Place your rain barrel or tank in a spot where runoff naturally flows during rain, such as below an overhang, roof corner, or along the edge of a building.

• How It Works: Position the tank or barrel under areas where rainwater tends to collect or flow off naturally. A wide-mouth barrel or tank will capture the runoff more effectively.
• Best for: Balconies, patios, or areas where installing gutters is not possible.

4. Tips for Placing and Securing Storage Systems in Small Spaces

When working with limited space, positioning your storage tank or barrel is key to efficient water collection and usage. Here are some tips:

• Level Ground: Ensure that the ground or surface where the tank will be placed is level to prevent tipping or uneven pressure.
• Elevate the Tank: Elevating your rain barrel on cinder blocks or a sturdy stand will allow for better water flow and easier access to the spigot.
• Overflow Management: If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, ensure there’s a system in place to manage overflow. Direct excess water away from your home or living space using hoses or overflow valves.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a downspout directly above your chosen storage location, consider using a flexible gutter extension to direct the water into your rain barrel or tank.

Maximizing Efficiency in Small Space Rainwater Collection

In small spaces, it’s important to make the most of every drop of rainwater you collect. With a few smart strategies, you can increase the efficiency of your rainwater collection system and ensure that you’re using your storage capacity effectively. Here’s how to optimize your setup.

1. Calculating the Amount of Rainwater Your Space Can Collect

To maximize the efficiency of your rainwater collection system, start by calculating how much rainwater your space can collect. This will help you choose the right storage capacity and prevent overflow.

• Formula: Use this simple formula to estimate how much rainwater you can collect:
  Roof Area (sq. ft.) * Rainfall (inches)} * 0.623 = Gallons collected
• Example: If you have a 100-square-foot balcony or roof surface and your area receives 1 inch of rain, you can collect approximately 62 gallons of water.
• Tip: Even small surfaces can yield a significant amount of water, especially if you live in a region with frequent rainfall.

2. Using First-Flush Diverters to Remove Contaminants

In urban environments, rooftops and gutters can collect dirt, debris, and pollutants. A first-flush diverter helps improve the quality of the water you collect by discarding the first few gallons of water that contain most of the contaminants.

• How It Works: The first-flush diverter channels the initial flow of rainwater (often the dirtiest) away from your storage system. Once this “dirty” water is flushed out, cleaner rainwater is directed into your tank or barrel.
• Benefit: This reduces the amount of debris and pollutants entering your storage system, ensuring cleaner water for plants and other uses.

3. Water Filtration Systems for Cleaner Rainwater

If you plan to use the collected rainwater for tasks beyond watering plants, such as cleaning or washing outdoor spaces, adding a basic filtration system is a good idea. Even in small spaces, filters can be installed to improve water quality.

• Mesh Screens: Install a mesh screen at the top of your rain barrel to filter out leaves, dirt, and other debris as water enters the barrel.
• Inline Filters: For more advanced filtration, inline filters can be attached between the rainwater storage tank and the spigot or hose. These filters can remove finer particles, making the water cleaner and safer for various non-potable uses.

4. Simple Overflow Management Solutions

Overflow is a common concern, especially in small spaces. Without proper management, excess water can lead to flooding or water damage. Here’s how to handle overflow effectively:

• Overflow Valves: Most rain barrels and tanks come with built-in overflow valves. Attach a hose to the valve to direct excess water safely away from your home or garden. Ensure the hose leads to a drain or permeable surface where the water can soak into the ground.
• Rain Gardens: If you have space, consider creating a small rain garden. This is a landscaped area designed to absorb excess water, helping prevent runoff and adding greenery to your space.
• Buckets or Secondary Containers: For very small spaces, consider placing buckets or smaller containers near your main system to catch overflow water, which can be used later for watering plants or cleaning.

Pro Tip: Consider using a timer or sensor to control water flow from your storage system to prevent overwatering your plants and ensure the most efficient use of your collected rainwater.

Maintaining a Small Rainwater Collection System

To ensure your rainwater collection system works efficiently over time, regular maintenance is essential. Proper upkeep will not only keep your system clean and safe but also prolong its lifespan. Here’s how to maintain your small space rainwater collection system:

1. How to Clean and Maintain Small Rainwater Storage Tanks and Barrels

Over time, dirt, algae, and debris can accumulate in your rainwater storage system, reducing water quality. Regular cleaning will help keep your collected water usable and prevent blockages.

• Cleaning Frequency: Clean your rain barrel or tank at least once a year, or more often if you notice any algae growth or foul odors.
• Steps to Clean:

1. Drain the tank completely.
2. Scrub the interior with a brush and mild soap, making sure to reach the bottom and sides.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
4. Allow the tank to dry completely before refilling.

• Tip: Consider using vinegar or baking soda for a more eco-friendly cleaning option.

2. Preventing Algae Growth and Sediment Buildup

Algae can form in rainwater storage systems, especially if they are exposed to sunlight. Sediment buildup from roof debris can also accumulate at the bottom of the tank, potentially clogging hoses and taps.

• Preventing Algae:
• Keep the tank or barrel in a shaded area or cover it with a tarp to block sunlight.
• Use opaque or dark-colored barrels to reduce light exposure inside the tank, which helps prevent algae growth.
• Managing Sediment:
• Install a fine mesh screen over the inlet to filter out leaves, twigs, and other debris before they enter the tank.
• Consider adding a first-flush diverter to reduce the amount of dirt and sediment entering the system.

3. Checking for Leaks and Ensuring Efficient Water Flow

Leaks and blockages can reduce the efficiency of your rainwater system, wasting water and potentially causing damage. Regularly check for leaks and ensure that water is flowing correctly through hoses, spigots, and diverters.

• Inspect Connections: Regularly inspect the connections between the downspout, tank, and spigot for any signs of leaks. Tighten or reseal these connections as needed to prevent water loss.
• Unclogging Spigots and Hoses: Occasionally, dirt and sediment can clog the spigot or hose. Flush out the system by running water through the spigot or detaching the hose and clearing any blockages.

4. Seasonal Maintenance: Winterizing Your System

If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s important to prepare your rainwater collection system for freezing temperatures. Water expands when it freezes, which can crack barrels, tanks, and pipes.

• Draining the System: Before the first freeze, drain your tank or rain barrel completely to prevent ice from forming inside.
• Storing the System: If your system is portable, such as a collapsible bag, store it indoors during the winter months. For permanent systems, remove hoses and spigots to prevent freezing and consider covering the tank with an insulating cover.
• Optional Use: If you live in a mild climate, you may be able to use your rainwater collection system year-round, but be sure to monitor for any freeze risks.

Pro Tip: Check your rainwater system after heavy storms to ensure that no debris has clogged the inlet or downspout. Regular inspections help maintain water quality and prevent overflow.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about small space rainwater collection systems:

Conclusion

Installing a small space rainwater collection system is an excellent way to conserve water, reduce your utility bills, and make a positive environmental impact—even in the tightest urban settings. Whether you’re working with a compact balcony, patio, or small backyard, there are plenty of storage options, from rain barrels to slimline tanks, that can fit seamlessly into your space.

By choosing the right system, ensuring proper installation, and maintaining it regularly, you can make the most of the rainwater you collect. Over time, you’ll not only see the benefits in your garden but also in your wallet as you reduce your reliance on municipal water for everyday tasks.

No matter how small your space, rainwater collection is a practical, eco-friendly solution that provides long-term rewards. Start small, and as your needs grow, expand your system to make the most of nature’s free resource.