Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Storage containers are really where spending the money matters in a rainwater harvesting system. The more water you want to store, the more expensive the system will likely be. In arid areas where rainfall is light and drought is common, large storage tanks that may include underground storage tanks or large cisterns can be expensive but well worth the money.
If water falls often in your region, you might consider a smaller system to handle your watering needs during the occasional dry spell.
Aesthetics play an important part of selection, as well. If you are seeking the classic look, you can readily find used whiskey barrels online.
Make sure that rainwater collection devices are covered and tightly sealed. This helps minimize mosquito populations and prevent them from becoming a drowning hazard to small children. Also, tightly lash or stake your storage device to the ground so that it won't easily fall over. One gallon of water weighs over 8 pounds, so even a half-full 55-gallon drum can be a crushing hazard.
If you want your system to last, it must be drainable for winterization. Water expands when it freezes—one cold winter can spell the end to your whiskey barrel. Likewise be wary of a storage device that doesn't allow you to easily clean it. Even with mesh screens and filters, chances are good that dirt and debris will eventually make their way into your container. Being able to completely empty the storage unit will allow for easier cleaning.
