Rain Catcher, 200L
3.8
5
4
4
Spigot Dribbles
With this rain barrel I found that the spigot that attaches to the spout at the bottom leaks. I emailed the manufacturer about the problem, and they replied saying that these are high pressure spigots and since the rain barrel does not operate like a hose they will drip. I tested the spigot on a hose and it works fine under high pressure. I called the manufacturer and explained to them that I have another rain barrel from another manufacturer whose spigot works with high or low pressure. They said that there was nothing they can do. My only option is to return the product or buy a new spigot. Canadian tire has them for $3.99. It just doesn't seem fair that after spending good money for this rain barrel, that I have to spend more to make it work properly.
August 5, 2011
Does a good job
This rain barrel has a nice appearance, and the perforated top does a good job stopping large debris.
The lid lock in place, even in windy conditions stays in place.
The overflow connector is 5/8" good to attach a hose, I was worried that under heavy rain won't be enough to let the excess water out of the barrel, so I got a sump pump Discharge Hose Kit #62-3501-2 and replaced the 5/8" connector, see picture.
I had the same problem mentioned by another reviewer, the spout was leaking, I called the manufacturer (info in the assembly instructions paper included with the barrel) and in less than a week I got a replacement on the mail, excellent customer service.
Keep in mind that the rain barrel won't save you a lot of money, but your plants, especially those on pots and baskets, will be very happy with rain water.
Note:
Pictures taken with a Kodak Esayshare C190 Product #69-4691-8, reviewed elsewhere and the size of the pictures reduced with the software Easy Thumbnails to use little space on CT servers.
June 30, 2011
catches the rain
Got this one on sale and it was a great deal. It does what it's supposed to do: catch the water and keep it.
Unfortunately the little (plastic) spout at the bottom leaks and now that the first rainfall has filled the barrel, it's a little harder to fix so I guess I won't be using that one much.
Overall good quality bin, except for the dinky spout
May 25, 2011
Does the job
This rain barrel has done the job. The filter on the top catches any debris and holds a lot of water. It's definately not the most attractive but we have it in a corner away from traffic so we didn't mind that. The only problem we've had is that to use the spout at the bottom with a hose doesn't work great because there's not enough pressure. It's easier to fill a watering can by opening the lid.
May 5, 2011
