this post was submitted on 29 Mar 2025
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Offgrid living

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[–] perestroika@slrpnk.net 4 points 4 months ago* (last edited 4 months ago) (1 children)

Nice system. The first drain and spillway are well thought out.

Not sure about elsewhere, but here in Europe, one can often get plastic IBC containers in a metal support cage (1 x 1 x 1 m cube shaped) really cheap. It's smart to examine the labels before buying, to make sure it didn't hold anything hazardous. They come with a tap too and store 1000 L of water.

So if one practises gardening, a bigger tank might be handy to have. Elevating the ground under the tank or digging a hole under the tap will ensure better access.

[–] MysteriousSophon21@lemmy.world 2 points 3 weeks ago

Those IBCs are a gamechanger for rainwater collection! Just remember to paint or cover them if they're clear/white - UV degrades the plastic and you'll get algea growth like crazy. I've had mine for 3 yrs now and the black spraypaint job has kept it in perfect condition.

[–] wesker@lemmy.sdf.org 2 points 4 months ago (2 children)

Is this illegal in the US?

[–] wolfyvegan@slrpnk.net 3 points 4 months ago

Does it matter? Fight the power! /j

[–] FoxyFerengi@lemm.ee 2 points 4 months ago (1 children)

Depends on the state/local laws. Two examples: Hawaii is cool with it and might reimburse installation of rain barrels, while Arkansas says it's only okay to collect rain if you're not going to drink it.

[–] wesker@lemmy.sdf.org 2 points 4 months ago

Thank you, I'll check to see what my local laws are.