Learn how to install a water butt to save money, conserve water, and support plants.
Water is one of the most precious resources in any garden. Whether growing vegetables, tending flower borders, or nurturing young potted plants, regular watering is essential. However, rising water bills, hosepipe bans, and unpredictable weather encourage gardeners to find more sustainable solutions.
Installing a water butt is one of the easiest and most rewarding garden upgrades. It is a simple way to collect rainwater and reduce reliance on mains water. This time of year is ideal, as rainfall is usually reliable. Learning how to install one is easier than many gardeners expect.
Why use a water butt?
Save money
Rainwater is free and readily available. Using a water butt instead of tap water can noticeably reduce water bills, particularly during summer.
Better for plants
Plants prefer rainwater because it is natural and chemical-free. It is especially beneficial for flowers, vegetables, and young plants. Rainwater is often slightly acidic, making it ideal for blueberries, pieris, and rhododendron. Tap water tends to be more alkaline.
Help the environment
Collecting rainwater reduces pressure on the mains water supplies. It also helps limit surface water runoff, which can contribute to localised flooding.
Be ready for dry weather
During hot spells or hosepipe bans, stored rainwater allows continued watering. This is especially useful for containers and newly planted areas.
How to install a water butt
Pick the right spot
Place it beside a downpipe from a house, shed, or greenhouse. Ensure the ground is level and stable. Raise the butt slightly so a watering can fits under the tap.
Choose a suitable size
Most gardeners start with a 100 to 200 litre water butt. Slimline designs suit small gardens. However, choosing the largest capacity possible improves water storage.
Fit a diverter kit
A diverter kit connects the downpipe to the water butt and is straightforward to install.
- Cut the downpipe at the marked point
- Fit the diverter securely
- Attach the hose to the water butt
Once full, excess water flows back down the drain automatically.
Keep it covered
Secure the lid to prevent leaves from entering and to protect wildlife. Some include built-in filters to improve water quality.
Easy Care Tips
- Check the filter now and then
- Empty it before freezing winter weather
- Clean it out every year or two
A Great First Step for Any Gardener
A water butt is affordable, practical, and easy to install. It supports more sustainable gardening and helps conserve water. Learning how to install one is a valuable skill, and plants quickly benefit from collected rainwater.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1 – Why should I install a water butt?
A water butt saves money, reduces mains water use, and provides rainwater that plants prefer for regular watering.
2 – Where is the best place to position them?
Place it next to a downpipe on flat ground, raised slightly to allow access to the tap.
3 – What size should I choose?
A 100 to 200 litre water butt suits most gardens, although larger capacities store more rainwater.
4 – Is rainwater better for plants than tap water?
Yes, rainwater is chemical-free and often slightly acidic, which suits many plants.
5 – How do I maintain a water butt?
Check filters occasionally, empty before hard frost, and clean every year or two.
We have a water butt in our garden that has not been used for a while. Draining it & cleaning the inside,would be too much of a task for me.Is there any way the inside contents can be sterilised or neutalised .
I am far from a gardener,but have learnt a fare few things over the years to help me.
We have a water butt in our garden that has not been used for a while. Draining it & cleaning the inside,would be too much of a task for me.Is there any way the inside contents can be sterilised or neutalised .
I am far from a gardener,but have learnt a fare few things over the years to help me.