Granite Rain Barrel, 180L

We purchased this unit (over the others available) simply because the top could be used to hold flowers, a feature that would allow us to make it somewhat visually appealing, something it lacked over other models available. The install was quick and easy (about 15 minutes) and it works as advertised, though thread tape (not provided) for all connections is recommended. During heavy rainfall, the barrel will spill over a little when full as the feature to prevent overflow only works so well. Having said this however, any flowers on top will not be affected by the overflow at all. A small amount of rain fills up the 180 liters and being able to add additional units (connected together with provided parts) make this a perfect system for those looking to capture every litre they can. When you want to access the water, the two spouts work as you would expect, however the bottom one is fairly useless unless you have a pump attached or a significant amount of drop to allow gravity to help speed things up. Furthermore, all debris sinks to the bottom making the possibility for clogs (it did not happen to us but we noticed debris coming out) something to consider. Overall we would recommend this barrel as it worked well for us and once the flowers got big enough, the top looked beautiful and became an easy conversation piece. Next year we will plant some Creeping Jenny in the lid as well to allow it to grow over the sides and completely hide the unit.

Rain collection system, means you need to cut into the side of the downspout which is not hard to do if you have a drill and it does look great installed. Unfortunately it only collects part of the rain coming through the downspout but all of the debris. This model needs 15mm of rain to fill the barrel, my other barrels fill will 5mm of rain. The diverter system collects debris travelling down the spout, eaves were overflowing and I disassembled it, found the downspout completely clogged with maple keys. Drain hose fittings also leak, even when you get a full barrel it leaks out. Worse than useless, will try to return it.