The Illegal Free Water Hack

Learn how to build a DIY rainwater collection system using an IBC tote, roof gutter, leaf eater, and first flush diverter. This step-by-step tutorial explains our rainwater catchment setup, from collecting roof runoff to storing it in a covered tank.

In this video, we walk through how the components work together:

• Roof gutter: Collects rainfall from the roof and directs it into the system.
• Leaf eater: Screens out leaves and larger debris before the water reaches the plumbing.
• First flush diverter: Separates the initial, dirtier roof runoff from the water flowing toward storage.
• Floating ball: Rises as the first-flush chamber fills, then seals the chamber so subsequent runoff flows toward the tank.
• Covered IBC tote: Stores the collected rainwater for later use.

If you’re researching rainwater harvesting for an off-grid homestead or backyard project, this walkthrough explains what each part does and how everything connects.

About Colorado’s rainwater laws: The standard residential allowance permits up to two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons, for outdoor use on the same property. You can empty and refill them throughout the year. A 1,000-gallon storage system exceeds that allowance, although qualifying well properties may collect more under separate permitting rules.

Leaf screens and first flush diverters improve water quality, but they do not make rainwater safe to drink by themselves.

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