Rainwater Collection Basics
A practical guide to collecting rainwater at home: gutters, barrels, filtration, legal considerations, and turning free water into garden gold.
Clean Water When You Need It Most
Expert-tested water storage, filtration, and purification systems. Real testing data to ensure your family has safe, clean water during any emergency.
25+ Filters Tested
Lab-Verified Results
Safe Storage Methods
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Water Storage
Long-term storage solutions and rotation systems
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Purification
Filters, UV sterilizers, and chemical treatments
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Rainwater Collection
Harvesting and storing natural precipitation
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Water Testing
Quality testing kits and safety protocols
Water Safety Quick Reference
Critical water storage and purification guidelines for emergency preparedness
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Storage Rule of Thumb
1 Gallon
per person per day (minimum)
28 gal
Family of 4 / 1 week
56 gal
Family of 4 / 2 weeks
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Purification Hierarchy
1
Filter particles (sediment filter)2
Kill pathogens (boil, UV, purify)3
Remove chemicals (carbon filter)4
Test for safety (pH, TDS meters)⏱️
Emergency Timeline
3m
Without air3d
Without water3w
Without food💡 Water is your #2 priority after shelter
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Water Sources Ranking
1
Municipal tap water
(stored properly)
2
Bottled water
(check expiration dates)
3
Well water
(test regularly)
4
Rainwater
(filter + purify required)
Start here: Rainwater Collection Basics
A practical guide to collecting rainwater at home: gutters, barrels, filtration, legal considerations, and turning free water into garden gold.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Plan for 1 gallon per person per day minimum. For a family of 4, that's 28 gallons for one week or 56 gallons for two weeks. Include water for pets, cooking, and basic hygiene needs.
Layered approach: Start with filtration (removes particles), then purification (kills pathogens). Gravity-fed filters for home use, portable filters for travel, and purification tablets as backup provide comprehensive coverage.
Properly stored water in food-grade containers can last indefinitely. Rotate every 6 months for best taste. Municipal water (chlorinated) stays safe longer than well water. Always store in cool, dark places.
Rainwater can be safe with proper collection and treatment. Use first-flush diverters, collect from clean surfaces, and always filter and purify before drinking. Not recommended in urban areas with air pollution.
Food-grade HDPE plastic containers or glass. Avoid containers that previously held non-food items. Blue water containers are ideal as they block light. 5-7 gallon containers are manageable when full (40-56 lbs).