Best Rain Barrel Diverter Kit

What Is a Rain Water Diverter Kit?

A rainwater diverter kit is a collection of equipment that is used to redirect rainwater from a rooftop or other surface into a storage container, such as a rain barrel or cistern. The kit typically includes a gutter diverter that attaches to the gutter downspout, a hose or pipe to transport the water to the storage container, and any necessary fittings or adapters.

The goal of a rainwater diverter kit is to collect and store rainwater for later use, rather than allowing it to run off into storm drains or sewers. This collected water can be used for irrigation, flushing toilets, or other non-potable uses, depending on the filtration and treatment method you choose to implement. Diverting and collecting rainwater can also help to reduce erosion, and it may help to conserve water and reduce water bills.

Most rain water diverter kit are relatively easy to install, and it can be a DIY project. However, depending on the size and complexity of the system, you may want to consult with professional plumber or a contractor before installing it.

How To Install A Rain Barrel Diverter Kit

Installing a rainwater diverter kit typically involves the following steps:

1. Locate the downspout: The first step is to locate the downspout on your home or building that you want to attach the diverter to. The downspout is the pipe that carries rainwater from the gutter to the ground or a drainage system.
2. Measure the downspout: Measure the diameter of the downspout, as well as the length of the section you’ll be working with. This will help you choose the appropriate sized diverter and hose or pipe for your system.
3. Cut the downspout: Use a saw or a pair of tin snips to cut the downspout at the point where you want to attach the diverter. Make sure to use safety equipment, like safety glasses and gloves.
4. Install the diverter: The diverter is typically attached to the downspout with screws or adhesive. This diverter needs to be securely fastened, so that it can direct water flow. Some kits may come with more elaborate hardware to divert the flow.
5. Connect the hose or pipe: Once the diverter is in place, attach the hose or pipe to the outlet on the diverter. This hose or pipe will transport the water to your storage container. Make sure that the hose or pipe is securely fastened and properly positioned to avoid any leaks or spills.
6. Install the storage container: The last step is to install the storage container where the water will be collected. Most rain barrel kits come with instructions for setting up the container and make sure it is stable and level, so that it does not tip over or spill when full.

Please keep in mind that these instructions can vary depending on the kit and the diverter that you are using. It is always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure that you understand the process before starting.

Additionally, it is important to check your local regulations and codes on the matter, as some cities and states have specific requirements for rainwater harvesting systems, in some cases you may need a permit, and inspect the system before using it.

Characteristics Of A Good Diverter Kit

A good rainwater diverter kit should have the following characteristics:

1. Durability: The diverter and all of the components should be made of high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the elements and last for a long time.
2. Ease of Installation: The kit should be easy to install, with clear and detailed instructions, and all of the necessary hardware included.
3. Quality of filter: A good diverter kit should include a high-quality filter that can effectively remove debris, leaves, and other contaminants from the water. It is also important to consider how easy it is to change the filter when it becomes clogged. Regularly changing the filter will ensure that the water is clean and safe to use.
4. Flow control: A flow control mechanism should be part of the diverter, which allows you to adjust the flow of water to suit your needs.
5. Compatibility: The diverter should be compatible with your existing gutter and downspout system, and with the storage container that you plan to use.
6. Capacity: The kit should have enough capacity to handle the amount of rainwater that your roof can collect, without overflowing or spilling water.
7. Easy to clean: The diverter, filter, and other components should be easy to clean and maintain, which will ensure optimal performance over time.
8. Flexibility: Some kits have different adapter options and flexible hoses to fit different gutter and downspout sizes and shapes, it is better to choose one of those kits.
9. Bonus point : If the kit comes with a water level indicator to know how much water is stored in the container, it will be a bonus.

Keep in mind that the quality of the filter is especially important, as it is responsible for keeping the water clean and free from debris. Choose a kit that has a high-quality filter, and make sure it is easy to change.

The Best Rain Water Diverter Kits For 2023

The Water Harvester’s Top Diverter Kit:

The EarthMinded FlexiFit Universal Diverter System is designed to be compatible with a wide range of gutter and downspout sizes and shapes. It offers a number of benefits, including universal compatibility. As the name suggests, the FlexiFit system is designed to be universal, meaning it can fit a wide range of gutter and downspout sizes and shapes. This makes it a versatile option for homeowners and builders who may have an older or non-standard gutter system. The hose is also flexible, making it easier to route water to your storage containers. 

The FlexiFit diverter system is designed for easy installation, with clear and detailed instructions, and all necessary hardware included. The kit comes with a variety of different adapter options, which make it easy to customize to fit your existing gutter and downspout.

The FlexiFit system includes a high-quality filter that effectively removes debris, leaves, and other contaminants from the water. The filter is easy to change and clean, which ensures optimal performance over time.

Flow control: The FlexiFit diverter includes a flow control valve, which allows you to adjust the flow of water to suit your needs. This means that you can regulate the amount of water that is stored in your rain barrel or cistern, and avoid overflow or spillage. It also comes with a water level indicator, which allows you to monitor the amount of water stored in the container.

Overall, the EarthMinded FlexiFit Universal Diverter System is a great option for homeowners and builders looking for a versatile, easy-to-install rainwater diverter kit that is compatible with a wide range of gutter and downspout sizes and shapes.

The Best Choice For A More Affordable Option:

This downspout diverter, sold under many different brand names, boasts a built-in filter basket, which is a nice feature. However, accessing the filter requires disconnecting the diverter, which may make it less likely to be maintained as frequently as desired. On the other hand, the diverter has a standard garden hose connection for the outlet, making it convenient for those with rain barrels located far from the downspout. One downside is that, like the Fiskars model, this diverter sits over the downspout rather than inside it, which may lead to leaks. Overall, it is a decent choice for those who want to avoid adding a hose adapter to an outlet. The diverter kit is easy to install, made with durable and weather resistant materials. it can be turned off when the barrel is full or during the winter. The diverter is designed to collect most of the rainwater during light and moderate rains. It is recommend to install it at least 12 inches above the rain bucket. Overall, this product is a good pick for anyone looking to conserve water by using rainwater collection system while being easy to install and maintain.

A Simple Diverter For Certain Uses Of Rainwater:

The Save the Rain Diverter is a metal attachment for the downspout of a gutter that aims to channel water into a barrel. It is easy to use, as it can be used when a collection tank is available or not. However, it should be noted that it may not be suitable for every scenario.

One of the best ways to use this product is when the barrel is placed in front of the downspout. During the water collection season, the diverter stays open and directs water into the barrel. When the water collection season is over and the barrel is put away for the winter, the diverter can be closed easily to resume the downspout’s original function without the need for reassembly.

Overall the Save the Rain Diverter is a great option for an easy to use, easy to store and it’s well suited for seasonal use. It will work best when your rain barrel is placed in front of the downspout.

The Best Easy-Change Filter:

The Fiskars DiverterPro water diverter is designed to effectively remove debris, leaves, and other contaminants from the water, ensuring that the water is clean and safe to use.

The filter on the DiverterPro is easy to clean and maintain, which will ensure optimal performance over time. The filter is also designed to be easy to replace, so you can change it out quickly and easily when it becomes clogged. It comes with a simple clip-on mechanism, that makes it very straightforward to change.

The DiverterPro also comes with a window that will let you know when the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced, and an overflow valve that shunts water away from your home when your storage container is full (keeping water away from your foundation). 

The DiverterPro is designed to be compatible with standard round downspouts, so it should be a great fit for most homes.