Connecting multiple barrels is definitely a solid approach, especially if you have limited space and want to maximize capacity. I've seen setups where the barrels are linked near the top with PVC pipes—this way, when one barrel fills, it naturally spills into the next. Just make sure they're level or you'll end up with uneven filling issues. Also, adding individual taps at the bottom of each barrel helps with maintenance and cleaning... learned that one the hard way.
Good points, especially about keeping everything level. I did something similar last year, and one thing I'd definitely recommend is adding some kind of overflow pipe or hose at the last barrel. Had a pretty heavy storm once, and water was spilling everywhere... almost caused some foundation issues. Also, consider screening your openings—mosquitoes love standing water, and trust me, you don't want that headache. Better safe than sorry, right?
Yeah, overflow pipes are definitely a must-have—seen way too many setups without them ending in disaster. Screening is good advice too, but honestly, I've found mosquitoes can still find their way in if you don't get the mesh size just right. Had a client once who thought window screens would do the trick... nope, mosquitoes had a field day.
One thing I'm curious about though—how are you guys dealing with winterizing your setups? I've seen some barrels crack pretty badly from freezing water expanding inside. Are you draining completely before winter hits or using some kind of insulation? I've heard mixed results on insulation wraps and haven't tried them myself yet.
Totally agree about the overflow pipes, seen some nasty basement floods without 'em. As for winterizing, insulation wraps seem kinda gimmicky to me... I've always just drained mine completely before the freeze hits. Bit of a hassle, but beats cracked barrels come spring.
"As for winterizing, insulation wraps seem kinda gimmicky to me..."
I've actually had decent luck with insulation wraps, though I was skeptical at first too. A couple winters back, I decided to test it out on one barrel—wrapped it up tight, left some water inside—and surprisingly, no cracks or leaks come spring. Granted, our winters aren't brutally cold here, so mileage might vary... but if draining feels like too much hassle, wraps might be worth a second look.
