Small rain barrels are a fun way to get started in home rain collection. Typically these barrels hold up to 60 gallons and can be easily placed under a down spout to collect rain. They are now even available at some large hardware chains for just over $100.
One of the major limitations to rain barrels is their footprint - their squat, round shape takes up precious space and may block the path of lawn mowers or trash cans. Also the volume of water stored in a single rain barrel is insufficient to water even a small suburban garden for a few days. A better solution for tight spaces is the Rainwater HOG that can be placed under individual down spouts or connected in series to collect as much rainwater as needed. At only 20 inches wide and less than 10 inches deep, the HOG will fit into many spaces without hindering traffic. Like all our rain tanks, the HOGs are constructed from food-grade quality, UV resistant material that won't contaminate the water.
The rain tank solution for homeowners serious about rain collection is a storage of hundreds of gallons of water - enough to last weeks - in a robust container, designed specifically for the job of rainwater collection.