How to Build a 550 Gallon Rainwater Harvesting System

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 มิ.ย. 2024
  • 🌧️ Step-by-Step Guide: Building a 550-Gallon IBC Tote Rainwater System 🌧️
    Join me as I walk you through the entire process of building a 550-gallon IBC tote rainwater system! In this detailed tutorial, you'll learn:
    🔧 How to select and prepare the IBC tote
    🔩 Installing the necessary fittings and plumbing
    🚿 Setting up the overflow system
    💧 Connecting the system to your garden and outdoor fixtures
    🌟 Please LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! 🌟
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ความคิดเห็น • 521

  • @clarapappas1829
    @clarapappas1829 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I have been watching this type of videos for over a year. This is the first time that I got a clear explanation of how everything works AND a list of the items I will be needing in order to make this project a reality. Thank you. I have 3 IBC. Totes waiting to be converted into a water collection monster. LOL

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Wonderful! I’m glad that it helps you. Three years and still going strong! With three totes, you’ll want to place a few supports under the front pipe that connects the tanks since the pipe will be heavier than if you used two tanks. Otherwise, it shouldn’t need any changes.

    • @clarapappas1829
      @clarapappas1829 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 thank you you are awesome. 👍

    • @kaiesping2326
      @kaiesping2326 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I second this motion. I finally feel confident to setup my system. We get heavy rains where I live and this overflow system is the best I’ve seen

  • @evabaker3974
    @evabaker3974 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Thank you for the detailed description of each item and how to set up. After watching so many videos yours is hands down the most confidence inspiring one I’ve seen. I feel confident to be able to do this myself (with a little help for lifting the tanks. Thank you again from Australia,

  • @SunnyBunnyAcres
    @SunnyBunnyAcres 3 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    Rarely comment on videos but this is such a great one. Your level of detail and breadth of covering this topic is so good. Thank you so much for taking the time to list out your parts and describing them. I know that took alot of extra work - you set the bar for quality how-to videos. This is the ONLY video most people will need to view to build a rainwater system, which I'm doing for my cabin.
    It looks like you've stopped making videos but I think you could be one of those guys who can make serious $ from TH-cam.

    • @huggysexcitingnews2558
      @huggysexcitingnews2558 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      No wonder he explained it so well because he's a science teacher

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thanks! It takes time making the systems and then going through all the steps to share my process. But in the end, it makes the process SO MUCH easier for everyone else. I also have a poor memory so this video will help me when I make another system! Haha

  • @KLU421
    @KLU421 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much! Best and most comprehensive plan and list!

  • @carissanelson4495
    @carissanelson4495 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    So helpful!! Thanks so much!

  • @latherrinserepeat8615
    @latherrinserepeat8615 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Excellent information. I have never heard of the first flush diverter. Love the detail sir. Thank you so much.

  • @i_amduckie5320
    @i_amduckie5320 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Easy enough! Thanks for showing us how to do this. I’m actually trying to start the same exact system but for a camper

  • @IceNdice93
    @IceNdice93 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for the precise instructions!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      You're welcome. 😀 The water runs very clean. I run it through a Berkey filter though and drink it and use for cooking as well..

  • @teknotech
    @teknotech 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for a great video, very nicely presented! You gave me great tips for using the Totes' drain fittings and providing an overflow in the top. I didn't really want to cut into the Totes.

  • @AmyStreetLife
    @AmyStreetLife 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Great video! I love that you labeled everything. You have a new subscriber and I will definitely recommend you to anyone looking to set up their own system.

  • @DE2borknot2b
    @DE2borknot2b 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    OMG!! Thank you so much for explaining the set up for the IBC totes.... you're right, I too watched tons of videos & most are so long winded that I click off & then I started watching Australian videos since they have been rain harvesting for many years. I came across your video...thank you, thank you!!!! Very, very helpful. Be well....

  • @danielsipes9682
    @danielsipes9682 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome educational video! Thank you for your time and effort you put into it.

  • @TC10394
    @TC10394 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great installation!!!

  • @larrisalewis8558
    @larrisalewis8558 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was awesome thanks for the video

  • @kansasgardener5844
    @kansasgardener5844 3 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    Great video! It's almost exactly how my system is built. I might add that sitting rain water can become stagnant and start to smell horribly. I used small fountain pumps inside each tank to remedy this. They run 24/7. You need to make sure to make sure they are at the bottom of the tank and if the tank gets low on water to unplug them or they will burn up! I also installed an RV 110 water pump in line after the tanks to hook up to my water hose. I now have a watering wand hooked up to my tanks with the same pressure you get from your house spigot. The pump turns on when you squeeze the lever on your wand or spray nozzle and turns off when you release it. The pump is hooked up to a light switch so I can turn it on and off as needed. My system also has several inline filters to keep the watering wand from plugging up. I really need to do a video on my system. Maybe this coming spring !

    • @lauram1145
      @lauram1145 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Please do a video showing your setup. That would be do helpful!

    • @michealnelson5179
      @michealnelson5179 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yes, please. Sounds great!
      I’m building our system soon at our new house & will add these details. Thanks!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Yes! That’s the next step to building a better system. A vortex inside the tanks that keep water moving to prevent any pathogens fro multiplying and to keep the water from freezing.

    • @kansasgardener5844
      @kansasgardener5844 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 Anything particular?

    • @sdlangdon7468
      @sdlangdon7468 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kansasgardener5844 I know my brother in-law has horses and he has a small machine that sits at the bottom of the water tank and stirs the water to keep it from freezing. It sits at the bottom so the horses won't stick their noses deep enough to grab it and pull it out. It would keep your water in a "vortex" pattern: stirred and unfrozen.

  • @homesteadpilgrim
    @homesteadpilgrim 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very thorough! Thanks for the parts list

  • @kendrakurihara3117
    @kendrakurihara3117 4 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    The most informative TH-cam video I’ve ever watched, and I’ve seen many. Thank you so much! We are building our system next in Moab Utah.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      You could definitely use a system like this in Moab! Good luck with your system. :) I use the water daily for drinking and run it through my Berkey filter. The system is almost a year old and still working great!

  • @jessicabrantley-hoyes9935
    @jessicabrantley-hoyes9935 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This video is fantastic! It has everything I was looking for and you explained everything so well! Thank you so much!!! I can't wait to implement my system!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Awesome! You will appreciate the rain much more once you get the system. It’s such a great feeling watching the rainwater enter the system!

  • @3bouldersurban653
    @3bouldersurban653 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for a detailed setup with parts list! Good job! 👍

  • @yesdeere1376
    @yesdeere1376 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Outstanding video sir. Got 2 of the same tanks today. This helps a lot.

  • @heidilarkin3074
    @heidilarkin3074 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love this video. Very detailed. Thanks for sharing

  • @speedbuggy16v
    @speedbuggy16v 3 ปีที่แล้ว +69

    Great video with a lot of good info but can add a few things, forget a handsaw, a circ saw or a reciprocating saw makes quick work of cutting pipe and you can knock the burrs off easily with a common razor knife faster than sandpaper. Also watch which totes you buy, not all have a 2 inch NPT thread in them, and not all totes have the same connector at the valve there are at least 4-5 variations. A pro tip for glue up on PVC, do the female side first, then you can set it down and not get debris on the glue up surface while you are doing the male end. The black plastic is a good idea, But UV will break it down over time. I use landscape fabric on mine then I install vinyl siding over that, it takes 5 sticks of 12 foot siding to wrap one, I still have not come up with a really good and aesthetically pleasing method for covering the top. I also love the paver base idea, I will be incorporating that into my next bank of totes, some people pour a slab, but in the end despite the weight a single tote only has about 1.6 PSI of ground pressure, so unless you have really soft or wet soil that moves a lot, I dont think its needed. As I said, great video, I hope you dont feel that I am picking at you with this, I am just trying to offer some advise from someone that has done this kind of thing before.

    • @BenfromFlux
      @BenfromFlux 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you!

    • @pgannon1948
      @pgannon1948 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @speedbuggy16v Thanks for the tips. Why do you prefer landscape fabric over black plastic since both will deteriorate from UV? I was thinking of wrapping and topping the IBC with wooden siding. What do you use to top the IBC?

    • @speedbuggy16v
      @speedbuggy16v 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@pgannon1948 the landscape fabric, at least the stuff I am using is a woven heavy duty type it just seems like it will hold up better in the long run, though I have no proof of that. But either would probably work especially if your vinyl siding over it like I am. In the end I just put steel roofing panels on the top of mine

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      So far, it's been about 3 years and no sign of degradation from the Sun. EVENTUALLY the day will come. They now sell IBC tote covers on Amazon and other sites that may be a better way to cover the totes, but some appear to be made cheaply and may not last as long as what I am using.

    • @speedbuggy16v
      @speedbuggy16v 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 Impressive, now that you mention it, I have some black plastic over a transmission that has been setting outside about that long that has not shredded either. Glad its still working, cheaper that still accomplishes the goal is always the best in my book!

  • @bradlafferty
    @bradlafferty ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Best rain water collection content I’ve seen! Thank you for the detail on pieces and process! I can do this now!

  • @mediamattersismycockholste562
    @mediamattersismycockholste562 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It is a crime that you don't have a million views on this. Good information and description! Just found a deal on IBC totes, and this video was a great help for our rainwater system down at the cabin.

  • @bliz75
    @bliz75 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Best explanation and step-by-step video. Thank you

  • @Ricky16317
    @Ricky16317 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is one of the best videos I've seen on rainwater collection, got some good ideas for when I finally get around to installing my own system!

  • @oilspeculatorhater
    @oilspeculatorhater 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for your great descriptions and overall very informative video.

  • @kyletruman8790
    @kyletruman8790 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great video, very helpful! Thank you!

  • @danielnigra1922
    @danielnigra1922 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great informative video.
    Thank you!

  • @alexfoit9273
    @alexfoit9273 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    What a great video! Wonderful job. So very helpful

  • @michaelking42
    @michaelking42 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job with lots of great information, thank you.

  • @pauldent3059
    @pauldent3059 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nicely described, thank you, so many people just skip by the fittings and stuff. Good job.

  • @TheTravelingTracker
    @TheTravelingTracker 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    *Well done Jeff great installation* 🏗🙏

  • @jorgeaguayoc
    @jorgeaguayoc 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is tue BEST video!! Thank you so much!!

  • @ozkar1017
    @ozkar1017 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Beautiful video thank you so much 😊

  • @RAfA95
    @RAfA95 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks GREAT video

  • @davidgillis3807
    @davidgillis3807 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just what I was looking for! Thanks so much

  • @g3745
    @g3745 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    We need more videos like this!!!

  • @aaronsalvesen4553
    @aaronsalvesen4553 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great job!
    I use a compound Miter saw to cut the PVC, way easier and dead square!

  • @michelelandry6739
    @michelelandry6739 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    OMG Thank you for listing everything! I'm totally diy with no previous experience.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You’re welcome. It’s been a year later and the water is still running clean. I recently added a drip irrigation pump for timed watering of the garden. I’ll post a video soon!

    • @dallashill23
      @dallashill23 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Nature Hacker yes please!!

  • @nickhayden
    @nickhayden 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    man - what a great informative video - thanks for the sharing

  • @mariecoleexperience4494
    @mariecoleexperience4494 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great catchment info. Thanks for the details.

  • @AshleyWragg
    @AshleyWragg 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Top video on this topic. Thanks!

  • @GaiaCarney
    @GaiaCarney ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank You, Nature Hacker & Orlando Permaculture 💚 for so generously sharing this helpful information

  • @Redhackle
    @Redhackle 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good video. Thank you.

  • @queentishay85
    @queentishay85 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for the upload

  • @Dtella55
    @Dtella55 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice... 💯💯

  • @ashleyd.6386
    @ashleyd.6386 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Any update on when we can expect your next video? Looking to build our system soon and would love to see how yours has been working and any changes you may have made

  • @absolutelyyouhomeandgarden5612
    @absolutelyyouhomeandgarden5612 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks so much for this very informative video! This will help me out so much😀

  • @lilcriz1
    @lilcriz1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cant wait to start my system

  • @falalah81
    @falalah81 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the detailed information and steps. Just subscribed.

  • @livingoffthegrid6956
    @livingoffthegrid6956 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you so much and I subscribed! 💜😊

  • @elperron5261
    @elperron5261 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is amazing, will definitely follow you guys

  • @Eric-gi9kg
    @Eric-gi9kg 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I enjoy watching any video that shows/talks rain collection.
    I put together a 16 - 55 gallon system several years ago. And currently I am swapping it out for 4 - 275 gallon system, which will be expanded to another 8, totaling in at 3,300 gallon capacity.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That’s impressive! Have fun with the new project. 😀

  • @_tor
    @_tor 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thank you Nature Hacker. A very organized set of instructions.

  • @stephenmahlstedt7276
    @stephenmahlstedt7276 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is an excellent video and my wife and I are using your design to build out our own collection system now. Thank you for creating such an informative video and for providing such a detailed parts list. It’s incredibly helpful!! One thing I wanted to point out is that you have a quantity of 1 listed for the 2” female PVC adapter in the parts list. I believe two are needed for the this two-tote setup, right? One per tote spigot?

  • @phillipg7315
    @phillipg7315 ปีที่แล้ว

    This was one of thee best videos diagramming a rain catch system! Nicely done, great graphics and instructions!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! I’m glad you found it informative.

  • @mojavebohemian814
    @mojavebohemian814 ปีที่แล้ว

    Excellent. Tks

  • @dwightrivera3281
    @dwightrivera3281 ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing videoooo, easy to follow instructions!!!!

  • @jacobdachauer4377
    @jacobdachauer4377 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the great video! How is this system working a few years later? Have you had to make any updates or adjustments?

  • @iamthewelcher
    @iamthewelcher 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Dang...what I could get done with that many helpful friends!!

  • @Yupmoose
    @Yupmoose 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Beautiful work! You did an excellent job instructing us on how to make this wonderful harvester! I really appreciate the time and effort y'all did! and a parts list catch me I'm fainting......

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I’m glad to help out! I watch too many videos where they skip some important steps. Let me know if you have questions. 😀

  • @nickkailey7682
    @nickkailey7682 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    YOOOOO IM OUT OF ORLANDO AND JUST STUMBLED ACROSS YOUR VIDEO!! I'm literally doing this myself and have been doing some research. Holy cow this video made me so excited lmao

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Nick Kailey Wonderful! I’m happy to help out. If you need a local contact for food grade totes, message me. The system is a year old and still works great. I’ve tried out several systems and this one is the most reliable for me. I”ll be posting an update soon on how I use the system for drip irrigation and filtering for drinking water. I do recommend adding another level of cinder blocks to raise the system higher for more water pressure, but it won’t matter much if you use a small pond pump for running irrigation.

    • @nickkailey7682
      @nickkailey7682 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@naturehacker1095 That's awesome! I wish you luck. Actually, I'm getting the totes donated to me by a friend who buys them in bulk. The totes should be here within a week or two. Next step is repair the gutters and then get the system down! As a Florida native, I think everyone should have one of these

    • @Marvinthecoinhunter
      @Marvinthecoinhunter 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Add a $150 harbor freight jet pump....

  • @ukgardener973
    @ukgardener973 ปีที่แล้ว

    thanks

  • @TheGlobalTravelr
    @TheGlobalTravelr ปีที่แล้ว

    This is excellent breakdown!

  • @jennifertaylor4227
    @jennifertaylor4227 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love this idea wish I can do it for my garden

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  ปีที่แล้ว

      Rainwater collection is fun and can be done on any scale. I’ll be showing a smaller 55 gallon system soon! I have to admit that I stood outside the first time it rained after I built the system to watch it fill up! 😀

  • @taylor3014
    @taylor3014 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    JUst a Great Video ! Covered everything really well with detail ! Many thanks !!
    Rainwater is a wasted redource !Can't wait to start my setup

  • @greyresort9339
    @greyresort9339 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Many thanks for this great tutorial video ! I subscribed to your channel.

  • @richardturner6340
    @richardturner6340 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As you mentioned finding a way to connect the totes and the plumbing has taken many hours. Many thanks for describing the connections and where to find them. My plan is a little different. I'm planning to collect rain water and store it in 2 totes in the ground below the greenhouse. I'd be interested in your thoughts about putting your totes under ground. Again, thank you for the detailed explanations.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hello! I don’t have personal experience burying IBC totes but the walls are thin so I would be cautious about it. Some people report having the walls cave in when the tote runs empty, but this may be due to not having some type of vent or tube that comes to the surface to suck in air to replace the vaccuum created when water is sucked out by the water pump. Also, if your water table is high, it could crush the tank from underneath of its covered up or it could float up out of the ground. So be sure to determine how high your water table can get after a rain storm. Either way, if you do decide to bury them, keep them in the cage and maybe add some more reinforcement to protect from pressure from dirt/sand. And make sure to keep the tank covered at all times. If sunlight hits that water and algae forms, it will be tough to clean out.

    • @michealnelson5179
      @michealnelson5179 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Can wrap the frame with concrete/mortar wire. It’s like chicken wire, for supporting mortar. That would help keep dirt from crushing in. Might take several layers & might take mortar to be hell for stout.
      Maybe a small frame over the top. Using a pallet would be temporary since it will rot. Recreate a pallet shape with concrete boards? To put a sturdy “roof” over the IBC?

  • @johnclamshellsp1969
    @johnclamshellsp1969 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    For a more accurate water level check, take a 2'in T at output and place/fix into place a clear plastic tube to the top of the tank. A sight glass.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Putting a clear tube on the side of the system is a great idea but as you probably know, it also exposes the water to the sun and algae will quickly grow. So an important tip to share is to cover the clear plastic tube with a foam tube or something that will cover the clear tube when it’s not being read.

  • @84nomas
    @84nomas ปีที่แล้ว

    great vid man!

  • @robertschreiber2211
    @robertschreiber2211 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I will 100% be using this system for my off grid cabin! Only 2 engineering changes I’ll be adding to it will be a 30gallon sand, charcoal filter after the first flush diverter and then a series of progressively finer spin down filters at the outlets and a 12v UV light filter…..of corse this is over engineered but it will be my only source for drinking water.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Sounds great! Yes, this system does a good job filtering out the sediment but adding a natural filtration system for drinking water is the missing piece. My advice is to reconsider adding the sand and charcoal filtration unit after the first flush because they may drastically slow down the flow of water into the totes and you'll end up with a lot of potential drinking water going out the overflow. You want to collect the rainwater as FAST AS POSSIBLE! If the rain collection totes are above your filtration containers, you can use the force of gravity to send the collected water through your filters. You will have to raise your system a few feet higher than the one I built to get the gravity feed going. Depending on the amount of water you need to filter daily, you may choose to use 5 gallon buckets or go big time and use 55 gallon drums which can process 300 liters daily. Check out www.aqsolutions.org/charcoal-biochar-water-treatment/ for inspiration. I hope to add a small filtration system with 5 gallon buckets but if you beat me to it with adding a filtration system, let me know! Share photos. :)

    • @sourcecreator2222
      @sourcecreator2222 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 wow, this link was SO HELPFUL! This is gold for learning to filter water!

  • @megatherium99
    @megatherium99 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent job and I enjoyed the anole who photobombed - and apparently was inspecting the system - around the 7:32 mark!

  • @TheRealDonLayton
    @TheRealDonLayton ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Nice detail in your video. You explain things that others assume their viewers will know.

    • @jefferytrapani9700
      @jefferytrapani9700 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! I hope it helps you with your future water projects.

  • @laidbacktraveler2580
    @laidbacktraveler2580 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great instructional vid! Having built several of this type of catchment systems, I find that painting the totes to be longer lasting, and easier. Here in the islands, the plastic eventually weathers out and becomes brittle due to the sun and weather after a few months time - even if shaded, it doesn't last as long as a painted tote. YMMV.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree that it's easier and longer lasting but I am drinking the water (After filtering with a Berkey) and I just don't want to risk having any paint chemicals getting into the water. Plastic is semi-porous. I don't have any research to show either way that it is an issue. I just do what works for me. They sell covers now on Amazon.com to cover totes which may last a lot longer. As for the plastic I'm using, I'm on three years and counting with no degradation. But I'm sure it will happen eventually.

    • @michaelking42
      @michaelking42 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      What paint are you using for the totes? I like this idea and think I will go that route as well.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@michaelking42 I cover with a thick plastic instead of paint to avoid any chemicals leaking through. It’s precautionary but the decision is up to you. I include the plastic I used in my material list. The plastic I used is going three years strong with no sign of degradation in Florida heat and sun.

    • @michaelking42
      @michaelking42 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 I did see your plastic wrap and was thinking I'd do the same, but then I did see the covers they sell on amazon and started leaning that way; then at the mention of paint....I really like that idea and will research some more before I commit to it. About 10 years ago I stored a 24 pack of plastic water bottles for hurricane preparedness in the cupboard under the bathroom sink with some cleaners. When I took a drink out of one of the bottles, it tasted just like the perfume from a soap dispenser in the cupboard. So first hand know how porous these things are. I'm in FL too, BTW, and thank you.

    • @johnlee7085
      @johnlee7085 ปีที่แล้ว

      @naturehacker - It’s interesting that you are worried about chemicals from acrylic leaching through all the chemicals that make up the plastic to contaminate your water. Glad to hear you use a Berkey - we have one too, though that would have been really good precautionary comment to include in the video.

  • @KellenChase
    @KellenChase 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This is a great video. How do you determine the amount/length required for the first flush? Does it correlate to impermeable surface / roof square footage?

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! The length and width of the first flush diverter depends mostly on the size of the roof and amount of pollutants in the area. The main reason for a first flush is just to get rid of the nasties on the roof first before filling the tanks. If I found that I needed to flush more water, I would have bought a few more pvc attachments and ran a few more pipes parallel to the one I installed to double or triple the first flush water collected. If you have a high roof, you can always get away with just having a longer or wider diverter pipe. Here’s a great resource to help you do the calculations. rainharvestingsupplies.com/content/documentation/pty/first-flush-diverter-brochure.pdf

  • @emilywilliams6108
    @emilywilliams6108 หลายเดือนก่อน

    This is an outstanding video, definitely the easiest to understand and best explained video about rainwater catchment ive come across. And this system will be perfect in my allotment here in the uk. Thank you

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Glad it was helpful! I am posting an update video on Monday June 10th. I hope you get to see it. :)

  • @anthonydooley3616
    @anthonydooley3616 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This should be something that homeowners in the west should be using. Florida gets plenty of rain without the need to collect it.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I have built several systems. One system collects water for an off grid rainwater shower. Another is for backup drinking water for hurricanes, other emergencies. I also use it for plant Foliar sprays that require no chlorine. So these systems are very useful here in Florida. But I agree about having a system like this out West. The people who watch this video are largely from that area and I’m probably getting about 20,000 views a month right now. So the desire for rainwater collection is growing! Thanks for watching.

  • @robertalonzo1569
    @robertalonzo1569 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Nature Hacker , you ARE AWESOME!!!! in this ‘how to video on rain water’
    Kudos to you👍👍👍👍

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  8 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Thanks! I have my 2024 Update Video coming out June 10th. Check it out!

  • @scottkeeports2308
    @scottkeeports2308 ปีที่แล้ว

    Absolutely Brilliant! Suggestion: Make a video 'how to build a windmill' for a well.

  • @brycehibbard5475
    @brycehibbard5475 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You mentioned a video about a pump system- I'm interested in seeing that

  • @johaunrivera3994
    @johaunrivera3994 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am in Orlando and currently trying to install a rain water catch system recently installed shallow well definitely need to check out Orlando Permaculture to see if you guys can assistlol ❤😂

  • @milomidesign
    @milomidesign ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice work

  • @charlescochran9803
    @charlescochran9803 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi very good job! Just to check up the sanitary 2” x 1 1/2” should it jus be 2”? Thanks

  • @bemorebetter5343
    @bemorebetter5343 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Best video on setting up a rain collection system! I appreciate you explaining it in a way that a newbie like me can understand. Not sure what the pavers cost in 2019, but 100sq is over $250. It's $11 for one paver. Thanks again for the video!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Haha Yeah. I realized this AFTER I made the video. I brought the box of pavers to the register and the employee must have scanned ONE of the pavers and it rang up to $12. I guess we both had no idea that it was only for one paver!! I bought two boxes this way for the same price for each system that I built and they made the mistake both times. Honestly, I had no idea the pavers were $12 each.

  • @old_and_new8096
    @old_and_new8096 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like it spr bro

  • @nicolasknight1300
    @nicolasknight1300 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wish I could like this video twice... Exactly the instructions I needed. Thanks! Question, is the plastic wrap necessary if the totes are out of direct sunlight?

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes. My rule is that If you can see your hand in front of you, there’s enough light to make algae inside the tank. So, in other words, you want something blocking the sun. Plastic wrap was the best solution for me at the time because I was nervous of painting the plastic totes and possibly getting some toxins seeping through. Amazon sells tote covers now but mixed reviews. There may be a few high quality tote covers out there though. That would make the covers removable if needed which can have benefits. Some covers are also insulated for colder climates. Have fun taking one more step toward resiliency!

  • @pthomasgarcia
    @pthomasgarcia 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Subscribed

  • @EddieHJJJ
    @EddieHJJJ 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    what a brilliant informative video! May I ask where to source the 6.5'' IBC cap with 2'' threaded plug?

    • @EddieHJJJ
      @EddieHJJJ 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Found it from the given links thanks

  • @ericnorton4045
    @ericnorton4045 ปีที่แล้ว

    Very cool video I live in a 55 and up community and we are purchasing a home here and I'm looking for some water catchment that is kind of inconspicuous HOA will allow it as long as it Blends in with the surroundings this is one of the best videos I've seen

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The aluminum cage is perfect for attaching boards or other types of covering to hide the system. You can attach a few thin boards vertically to the front of the cage with zip ties and and then screw larger boards horizontally to them. Or you could attach trellis board and grow flowering vines or other vegetation over the system. Or just build a false wall in front of the system. Easy to hide!

  • @Livn-4-Rapture
    @Livn-4-Rapture 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Amazingly detailed yet clear instructions for a beginner to follow! Excellent video!
    How much did this project cost? Thanks again!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks! It really depends on the price you can get for the IBC totes. This varies widely. It may cost you $100 for a food grade tote that didn't have chemicals in it. Mine had fruit juice in them before they were sold to me. My system probably cost me around $400 and since then, I probably made ALL the money back from a reduced water bill and of course- revenue made from ads on this video. Lol It was a win-win for me.

    • @Livn-4-Rapture
      @Livn-4-Rapture 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@naturehacker1095 I appreciate your time to reply. I got a IBC tote on offerup for $80 and I'm going to be making like a gravity fed water tower from my downspout that will water my raised bed gardens.
      I figured about $150 in wood for the tower and I'll be setup nicely 👌

    • @miqbad70
      @miqbad70 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Can you attach a "store bought" water filter to this system? Sorry for the blasphemous question. I know you are a nature hacker, but I want added purification if possible. Awesome video!!!

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@miqbad70 Haha I used a Berkey filter for a year with no issues. I don't know about using a cheaper one though like a Brita filter. It may not protect you against bacteria if you are thinking about drinking it.

    • @miqbad70
      @miqbad70 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 thanks man! Looking into a homemade distillery. I'm new to this, but very interested. Thanks for your reply

  • @warningeagle8558
    @warningeagle8558 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for this information? What’s was the total cost, how many people help and time for start to finish. Thank you again.

  • @vustabay
    @vustabay 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good job! But that overflow won't work if the top cap is cracked open on the second ibc tote.

  • @johnriggs6427
    @johnriggs6427 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have a question about the overflow. You mentioned loosening the caps on the top to allow air to leave while filling. Once full, wouldn't the water just flow out of the loosened caps instead of the overflow above?

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  ปีที่แล้ว

      There’s a few options. You can put the caps on and then twist a few times to keep them from coming off and that lets the air leave the tanks. An alternative is to cut a hole on the side of one tank near the top and insert a rubber grommet and then insert pvc pipe. 1.5 inch is all you need and that will take the overflow wherever you want to go. So the water level will stop at that hole and the water will flow out and never touch the top caps. I’m going to try the second way on a new system I built just to show how it’s done. But the method I used in this video has been working for 3 years now. I’ll do an update video with popular questions answered soon.

    • @johnlee7085
      @johnlee7085 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @john - Yes. Screw them on tight, then drill a hole to insert a water tight fitting to extend a standpipe higher than the overflow. Add a lose cap to keep mosquitoes out.

    • @hotblack1166
      @hotblack1166 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Do you recommend adding the standpipe to the screw on lid or the top of the IBC tank? I'm just trying to picture what you are recommending as I came here wondering why the water wouldn't just escape out of the loosened cap.

  • @MyBackstagePassPodcast
    @MyBackstagePassPodcast 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Would it work as well if I use my house sprayer to paint the tote black rather than wrapping in plastic?

  • @michealnelson5179
    @michealnelson5179 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Fantastic system! I’m going to build my own soon, probably just like this.
    Does a film of bacteria grow inside? I’ve seen others comment that it helps otherwise sterilize the tanks?
    Would a small circulation pump in each help prevent stagnation?
    What’s your outflow pressure? Does an RV pump or dock pump (110 v) up the pressure for long hoses to the garden?

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hello! The black cover will keep the Sun out and prevent algae growth. It has been running clean for two years. I use a small pond pump to add pressure. Otherwise you have to raise the system higher to get more pressure. Having something inside to circulate the water will keep the water from freezing in the winter but not needed to prevent algae. Now they have removable covers on Amazon to cover IBC totes which may be easier for you than wrapping with plastic but both ways work well.

    • @michealnelson5179
      @michealnelson5179 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@naturehacker1095 thanks! I’m moving in & building south of Dallas next month.
      Being 3/4 ton it’s a big engineering like Costco shelves to lift high enough for a few more pounds pressure, doh. Prob easier to put a 40 psi pump on it for garden hoses & timered drip lines. I plan to do a 2-tank system for garden & backup to city water. In drought times Ill just keep growing.

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@michealnelson5179 Yes. I agree. I opted for a pump as well.

  • @TheMelMan215
    @TheMelMan215 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I’m in Orlando and been looking to build a water catching system. My only problem is I can’t find the IBC totes. Can you recommend a place or a seller where I can get ibc totes safe for drinking water?

  • @MelixDesigner
    @MelixDesigner หลายเดือนก่อน

    Very informative. Thank you.
    If I were to build a system with only one IBC how would you go about to install an air outlet to release the pressure when it fills up?

    • @naturehacker1095
      @naturehacker1095  8 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      I have a new overflow system featured in my Rainwater System Update video coming out June 10th 2024. It works well with one tank.

  • @julily2004
    @julily2004 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi! Fantastic video. I need to know how does the second container fill up? With the connection on the bottom? So it fills up from the bottom up?

    • @jaime199
      @jaime199 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes the water pressure does the work to fill second tank because both values are kept open all the time.

    • @megatherium99
      @megatherium99 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yep. I think you can thank the Greek Archimedes for figuring this fluid equalization dynamic out thousands of years ago. He’s the guy supposedly responsible for getting in his bathtub, noticing the water level rise, then shouting “Eureka!” - while running down the city roads naked no less - realizing that his body volume equaled the rising level of the water. Because the two totes are linked the fluids aim for equalization of the downward force of air pressure on the water levels above - or something like that! Whatever the case? It works perfectly in my bottom-linked, four barrel 200+ gallon system I use at the side of the house.

  • @GhostedStories
    @GhostedStories 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is awesome, thank you!
    Instead of leaving the top cap semi-open, you might want to consider putting a breather.
    Awesome system, love it! Thank you!
    Edited:
    Question: Regarding the black plastic/tote you used to cover the tanks, I am wondering, can't we just paint over it? Black paint? Thanks!

    • @johnboylong40
      @johnboylong40 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I know your post is older but just thought I’d say plastic is a fickle medium to paint and have it adhere and stay bonded. I’ve seen black tanks for sale so we’re getting those ,

    • @GhostedStories
      @GhostedStories 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@johnboylong40 still an awesome system! 😊👍

    • @johnlee7085
      @johnlee7085 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We painted ours with an exterior acrylic and doing great. Some plastics don’t accept paint well but I don’t think it’s the type used in IBCs.