Rain Gutter Diverter
A diverter is a device that attaches to your downspout and redirects rainwater away from your foundation or into a rain barrel for storage. A rain gutter diverter can help you prevent water damage, erosion, flooding, and mold growth around your home. It can also help you conserve water and save money on your utility bills by using rainwater for irrigation, washing, or other purposes.
The Different Types of Rainwater Diverters
Different types of rain gutter diverters are available on the market, depending on your needs and preferences. Some of the most common ones are:
- Splash blocks: are simple plastic or metal trays that sit at the end of your downspout and disperse the water over a larger area. They are easy to install and inexpensive, but they may need to be more effective in heavy rain or on sloped surfaces.
- Flexible extensions: These hoses or tubes attach to your downspout and allow you to direct the water where you want it. They are adjustable and versatile but may need to be more durable and aesthetically pleasing.
- Downspout filters: These devices fit inside your downspout and filter out debris, leaves, and other contaminants from the rainwater. They are useful for preventing clogs and improving water quality but may require regular cleaning and maintenance.
- Rain barrel diverters: These systems connect your downspout to a rain barrel, a large container that stores rainwater for later use. They are environmentally friendly and economical but may require additional accessories such as fixtures, hoses, pumps, and screens.
The Benefits of Using a Rain Diverter
Using a rainwater diverter can benefit your home and the environment. Some of the main benefits are:
Protecting your foundation: By diverting rainwater away from your foundation, you can prevent cracks, leaks, and structural damage that can compromise the integrity and safety of your home.
Preventing erosion: By dispersing rainwater over a larger area or into a rain barrel, you can reduce soil erosion and runoff that can wash away nutrients, plants, and landscaping features.
Reducing flooding: By redirecting rainwater from areas that are prone to flooding, such as basements, crawl spaces, or low-lying areas, you can avoid water damage, mold growth, and health hazards.
Saving water: By collecting rainwater in a rain barrel, you can use it for various purposes, such as watering your lawn or garden, washing your car or pets, or flushing your toilets. This idea can help you conserve water and lower your utility bills.
How to Choose the Best Rain Gutter Diverter
Choosing the best rain gutter diverters for your home depends on several factors, such as:
The size and shape of your downspout:
You need to measure the width and height of your downspout and choose a diverter that fits snugly and securely. You also need to consider the shape of your downspout (rectangular or round) and choose a compatible diverter.
The amount of rainfall in your area:
You need to estimate how much rainwater you want to divert and choose a diverter that can handle the volume and pressure. You must also consider the frequency and intensity of rainfall in your area and choose a durable and reliable rainwater diverter.
The purpose of diverting rainwater:
You need to decide what you want to do with the diverted rainwater and choose a diverter that suits your needs. For example, if you want to store rainwater in a barrel, you need a diverter with a valve or switch that allows you to switch between diverting and draining modes. If you want to disperse rainwater over a larger area, you need a diverter that has a splash block or extension that spreads the water evenly.
The aesthetics of your home:
You need to choose a diverter that matches the style and color of your home and does not detract from its curb appeal. You also need to consider the visibility and placement of your diverter and choose one that blends in with your surroundings.
The Top Rain Diverter Brands and Models
Many brands and models of diverters are on the market, but not all are equally effective, durable, or easy to use. To help you narrow your choices, here are some top-rated rain gutter diverters that have received positive reviews from customers and experts.
EarthMinded FlexiFit Downspout Diverter:
This is one of the most popular and easy-to-install gutter diverters. It fits all residential downspouts and has a flexible material that allows you to drill a round hole in your downspout and insert the diverter. It has a valve that lets you switch between diverting and draining modes, and it comes with everything you need to connect it to your rain barrel1.
Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System:
This two-piece PVC rain diverter requires you to cut a section of your downspout and insert the diverter. It has a large interior that prevents clogs and a hose that connects to your rain barrel. It also has a winterizing stopper that seals the outlet when not in use2.
Flex-Drain Catch-A-Raindrop Rainwater Colander Kit:
This simple and affordable rainwater diverter attaches to your downspout with a zip tie. It has a colander that filters out the debris and a hose that directs the water to your rain barrel. It is easy to install and remove but may only catch some water in heavy rain3.
EarthMinded DIY Rain Barrel Diverter Kit:
This is another product from EarthMinded that includes a diverter, a hole saw, a spigot, a seal, and a hose. It works similarly to the FlexiFit diverter but has a different design that allows you to drill a rectangular hole in your downspout instead of a round one. It also has a filter screen that prevents debris from entering the hose.
RainReserve Rain Barrel Complete Diverter Kit:
This is a comprehensive rainwater diverter kit that includes two diverters, two stoppers, two seals, two hoses, two hole saws, and two barrel seals. It allows you to connect two rain barrels to one downspout for increased storage capacity. An automatic overflow system also redirects excess water to the downspout when the barrels are full.
Conclusion
A diverter is a useful device that can help you collect and conserve rainwater for various purposes. Choosing the best rainwater diverter for your home can protect your foundation, prevent erosion, reduce flooding, save water, and save money. However, before you buy a diverter, you need to consider several factors, such as the size and shape of your downspout, the amount of rainfall in your area, the purpose of diverting rainwater, and the aesthetics of your home. It would help if you also compared different types of rain gutter diverters, such as splash blocks, flexible extensions, downspout filters, and rain barrel diverters.
