Rain Barrel Downspout Diverter Valves: Managing Overflow

Connecting a rain barrel to your gutter system raises a practical question: how to divert water when the barrel is full?

Two Main Solutions

1. Built-in Overflow Pipes

Some barrels include overflow outlets that safely direct excess water to the ground.

2. Downspout Diverter Valve

A switchable valve that toggles between "barrel" (collecting) and "normal" (bypassing barrel) modes. This is often the cleaner retrofit solution.

Commercial Sources

• Aquabarrel
• Gutterworks
• RainReserve

These diverters install inline on the downspout, allowing you to capture rain when needed and return to normal drainage when barrels are full—preventing foundation flooding and barrel damage.