RTS Companies Rain Barrel Diverter Kit

Full review

The RTS Companies rain barrel diverter kit is a practical, no-fuss solution for homesteaders and backyard chicken keepers who want to make the most of every rainfall. Designed to connect directly to a standard round downspout, this kit redirects water from your gutter system straight into a rain barrel, allowing you to capture free water for your flock, garden beds, or coop cleaning needs instead of letting it run off into the yard. The kit typically includes the diverter unit itself along with the necessary hose and fittings, making installation straightforward even for those who aren't particularly handy. Once in place, it automatically stops filling the barrel when it's full and redirects excess water back into the downspout, which helps prevent overflow and reduces the risk of water pooling near the coop or run.

For anyone managing a homestead, water is one of those daily necessities that adds up fast, especially when you're watering chickens, ducks, or other livestock in addition to keeping a garden thriving. The RTS diverter kit helps take some of the pressure off municipal water use or well pumping by harvesting rainwater efficiently and directing it exactly where it's needed. This is especially valuable during dry spells or in areas where water conservation matters, since every gallon collected from a storm is one less gallon you have to haul out to the coop yourself. The diverter's simple mechanical design means there are no batteries, electronics, or complicated valves to maintain, which fits well with the self-sufficient, low-maintenance ethos that most homesteaders are striving for.

Durability is another strong point of this diverter kit, as it's built from sturdy plastic components designed to withstand outdoor exposure to sun, rain, and temperature swings season after season. It's compatible with most standard rain barrels on the market, so you don't need to buy into a proprietary water storage system just to use it. Whether you're setting up your first rain catchment system for a small backyard flock or expanding an established homesteading operation with multiple barrels, this kit offers an affordable entry point into rainwater harvesting. By pairing it with a few rain barrels placed strategically around your property, you can create a simple but effective network that keeps your chickens hydrated, your garden watered, and your overall water bill a little lighter.