Looking for an easy way to save water, reduce your water bills and keep your garden thriving during dry spells? A water butt diverter kit could be one of the simplest DIY upgrades you’ll make this year.
At Spudulica Home & Garden, we stock a wide range of water butts to suit every garden, from compact wall-mounted designs to large-capacity rainwater harvesters. Better still, you can add a water butt diverter kit to your order, helping you capture free rainwater whenever the British weather decides to cooperate!
What Does a Water Butt Diverter Kit Do?
A water butt diverter kit connects your downpipe to your water butt, directing rainwater straight into storage rather than letting it disappear down the drain.
When your water butt reaches capacity, most diverter kits automatically allow excess water to continue down the drainpipe, helping prevent overflows.
In short:
Collect more rainwater
Reduce mains water use
Save money on watering the garden
Make the most of every rainfall
Step-by-Step Water Butt Diverter Installation
Step 1: Position Your Water Butt
Choose a flat, stable surface close to your downpipe.
Step 2: Mark the Inlet Hole
Measure around 8-10cm below the top of the water butt and mark the position for the inlet connection.
Top tip: Double-check your measurements before drilling. It’s much easier than moving a hole afterwards!
Step 3: Drill the Hole
Using the correct size hole saw, carefully drill the opening and insert the supplied fitting or grommet. Check your diverter kit pipework to be sure of a good hole size and fit before drilling.
Tools You’ll Need Before you start,
- Drill
- Hole saw
- Tape measure
- Marker pen
- Hacksaw
- Spirit level
- Safety gloves and goggles
Step 4: Install the Diverter in the Downpipe
Hold the diverter against the downpipe and mark the position. Cut the required section from the pipe using a hacksaw and fit the diverter according to the instructions supplied.
Step 5: Connect the Hose
Attach the hose between the diverter and water butt. Make sure the hose runs smoothly without sharp bends or kinks.
Step 6: Test Everything
Wait for rainfall or pour water into the downpipe to test the system. Check all connections and ensure water flows freely into the water butt.
The Most Common Water Butt Diverter Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Even simple DIY jobs can catch people out. Here are the most common issues we see:
Water Isn’t Flowing Into The Water Butt
Possible cause: The diverter has been installed lower than the inlet hole.
Quick fix: The diverter should sit level with or slightly above the water butt inlet.
Water Is Leaking Around The Connection
Possible cause: The grommet isn’t seated correctly or the hole is too large.
Quick fix: Remove and refit the seal carefully. If needed, apply a waterproof sealant suitable for outdoor use.
Water Flow Seems Slow
Possible cause: The hose may be kinked or blocked.
Quick fix: Straighten the hose and check for debris inside the diverter.
Which Water Butt Is Right For You?
Whether you have a small courtyard garden or a large outdoor space, there’s a water butt to suit every space.
Popular choices include:
- 200L Wall Mounted Water Butt
- 330L Water Butt
- Cosmo Water Butt
- Metro Water Butt
- 750L Rain Catcher Water Tank
Not sure what size you need? Check out our guide on calculating water storage requirements to find the perfect capacity for your garden.
Save More Water With Every Shower
Rainwater harvesting is one of the easiest ways to make your garden more sustainable. By adding a water butt diverter kit to your water butt purchase, you’ll be ready to collect and store free rainwater from day one.
So next time the clouds roll in, you’ll be smiling knowing your garden is getting a free refill!
Browse our full range of water butts and diverter kits at Spudulica.co.uk and start making every drop count.
