8 Accessories for Upgrading a Rainwater Harvesting Tank

Collecting rainwater seems as simple as putting a barrel under a downspout, but anyone who has managed a small-scale farm knows that raw runoff quickly turns into a clogged, smelly mess. Upgrading a basic storage tank with the right accessories transforms a simple reservoir into a highly efficient, self-cleaning irrigation powerhouse. With a few strategic additions, a hobby farmer can secure clean, reliable water for orchards, livestock, and gardens even during the driest months of the year.

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Why Upgrading Your Rainwater Tank Matters

A standard plastic tank is just a holding vessel, vulnerable to debris, stagnation, and temperature extremes. Without proper upgrades, organic matter like leaves and bird droppings washes straight into the water supply, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. For a small-scale orchard or backyard vegetable plot, using contaminated water can spread pathogens to crops and clog delicate drip irrigation lines.

Upgrading a rainwater system shifts the focus from merely collecting water to managing its quality and accessibility. High-quality accessories automate the filtration and maintenance processes, saving hours of manual scrubbing and system troubleshooting. Investing in these upgrades ensures that every gallon of harvested rain is clean enough for livestock watering, crop irrigation, and general farm cleanup.

Leaf Screen – Blue Mountain Co Leaf Eater Ultra

Before rainwater even enters the storage tank, it needs to be stripped of large debris like leaves, twigs, and pests. A high-quality rain head acts as the first line of defense at the downspout, preventing organic material from rotting inside the pipework or tank inlet. Skipping this step leads to clogged pipes and a thick layer of sludge at the bottom of the reservoir.

The Blue Mountain Co Leaf Eater Ultra stands out because of its patented HydroFlow technology, which maximizes water flow while shedding leaves off the screen. Its sleek design incorporates a single, angled screen that forces debris to slide off the front rather than pooling on top. Built from durable, UV-resistant PVC, this unit handles heavy downpours without splashing water over the sides.

• Fits standard 3-inch or 4-inch round downspouts
• Features a 0.9mm stainless steel mesh aperture to block mosquitoes
• Angled screen face for self-cleaning action
• Requires occasional manual clearing of sticky pine needles or heavy leaf drops

This rain head is ideal for properties surrounded by deciduous trees or pines where gutter debris is a constant battle. It is not necessary for highly cleared sites with no overhanging branches, though it still offers excellent insect protection.

First Flush Diverter – Rain Harvesting Kit

The very first wash of rain off a roof carries the highest concentration of dust, pollen, bird droppings, and atmospheric pollutants. A first flush diverter captures this highly contaminated initial runoff and isolates it before it can enter the main storage tank. Once the diverter chamber fills, a floating ball seals the chamber, allowing only the clean, subsequent rainfall to flow into the tank.

The Rain Harvesting First Flush Diverter Kit is a customizable, highly reliable solution that utilizes standard schedule 40 PVC pipe to create the diversion chamber. The kit includes a slow-release drain valve that slowly empties the dirty water over time, resetting the system automatically for the next rainfall. Its robust, mechanical design contains no electronic parts, ensuring long-term reliability on a busy farmstead.

• Compatible with 3-inch and 4-inch pipe systems
• Includes a customizable diversion volume based on roof area
• Features a removable sediment drain plug for easy winterization
• Requires the user to supply the vertical PVC pipe length to match their specific diversion needs

This kit is essential for growers who use rainwater for overhead crop watering or livestock, where biological contaminants must be kept to an absolute minimum. It is less critical for those only watering non-edible ornamental plants, though it still extends the life of downstream filters.

Tank Gauge – Rain Harvesting Wireless Indicator

Managing a farm requires knowing exactly how much water is on hand for irrigation planning and livestock needs. Climbing a ladder to peer into a dark tank or tapping the plastic side is inaccurate and physically demanding. A reliable tank gauge provides real-time volume data, allowing for smarter water budgeting during dry spells.

The Rain Harvesting Wireless Indicator uses a transmitter mounted on top of the tank to send accurate level readings to an indoor receiver. This setup eliminates the need to run wires across the property or trek out to the tank in bad weather. The digital display shows the tank level in easy-to-read percentages, helping to prevent the sudden shock of an empty tank.

• Wireless range of up to 330 feet (100 meters)
• Suitable for tanks up to 10 feet (3 meters) in depth
• Uses a safe, non-contact ultrasonic sensor
• Requires clear line-of-sight or minimal obstructions for the best signal strength

This gauge is perfect for busy, part-time farmers who manage multiple chores and need quick, remote access to water levels. It is not ideal for metal tanks with thick, double-walled construction unless the transmitter can be positioned with a clear path to the receiver.

Utility Pump – Wayne VIP50 Submersible Pump

Gravity feed is rarely sufficient for running modern farm irrigation systems, sprinklers, or long hose runs. A reliable utility pump provides the pressure needed to move water from the storage tank to where it is actually needed on the farm. Without a pump, watering distant garden beds or elevated orchards becomes a slow, frustrating chore.

The Wayne VIP50 Submersible Pump is a workhorse designed to sit directly inside or alongside the tank to deliver high-flow performance. Powered by a 1/2 horsepower motor, it pumps up to 2,500 gallons per hour, easily handling multiple garden hoses or a small drip zone. The thermoplastic construction is corrosion-resistant, ensuring it will not rust or degrade in clean rainwater storage.

• Max flow rate of 2,500 GPH at 0 feet of head
• Discharges water through a standard 1-1/4 inch NPT outlet or garden hose adapter
• Passes up to 1/2-inch solids without clogging
• Must be unplugged manually as it lacks an automatic float switch in the base model

This pump is a must-have for farmers needing to run impact sprinklers or move large volumes of water quickly across flat ground. It is not suitable for deep-well applications or automated, pressurized home plumbing systems that require a dedicated pressure tank and switch.

Floating Intake – Wisy Floating Suction Filter

The cleanest water in any rainwater tank is located just a few inches below the surface, where sediment has settled to the bottom and floating debris remains on top. A standard bottom-draw outlet pulls in the heaviest sediment, which quickly clogs pump impellers and irrigation emitters. A floating intake solves this by drawing water from the sweet spot in the middle of the water column.

The Wisy Floating Suction Filter utilizes a highly buoyant polyethylene ball to suspend a fine stainless steel intake filter just below the water level. This ensures that only the cleanest, pre-filtered water enters the pump intake line. The highly flexible, food-grade hose moves up and down naturally as the water level in the tank rises and falls.

• Features a 1.2mm (1200 micron) stainless steel mesh filter
• Includes a highly durable 1-inch flexible suction hose
• Equipped with a check valve to prevent pump prime loss
• Requires a compatible pump with a suction port, rather than a submersible model

This accessory is a critical addition for growers running drip irrigation systems with tiny, easily clogged emitters. It is not suitable for systems relying solely on submersible pumps that draw water from their own base.

Tank Screen – Rain Harvesting Light Shield Screen

The inlet of a rainwater tank is a prime entry point for mosquitoes, frogs, and windblown debris. Additionally, sunlight entering through an open or poorly screened inlet promotes rapid algae growth inside the tank. A secure, light-blocking screen protects water quality while allowing high-volume inflow during heavy storms.

The Rain Harvesting Light Shield Screen combines a fine, pest-proof mesh with a solid, black plastic shield that blocks sunlight from entering the tank. This dual-action design keeps pests out while keeping the interior of the tank pitch-black, halting algae photosynthesis in its tracks. The durable polypropylene construction resists UV degradation from intense summer sun.

• Fits standard 12-inch tank inlets
• Features a 0.95mm stainless steel mesh to block mosquitoes
• Removable light shield for easy cleaning and inspection
• Requires regular inspection to ensure pollen buildup does not block water flow

This screen is a vital upgrade for any translucent or white plastic tank located in direct sunlight. It is less critical for completely opaque, buried tanks, though the pest protection remains highly valuable.

Sediment Filter – Rusco Spin-Down Filter System

Even with pre-filtration, fine silt and suspended sediment can still find their way into the storage tank. A dedicated inline sediment filter installed on the discharge line protects sensitive drip lines, valves, and misting nozzles from abrasion and blockages. Without this final defense, fine sand can ruin pump seals and clog irrigation systems.

The Rusco Spin-Down Filter System uses centrifugal action to force heavy sediment to the outside of the clear cover, where it settles into the bottom chamber. This design allows the user to see when the filter is dirty and clear it instantly by opening the bottom flush valve. The heavy-duty polymer construction handles high-pressure irrigation lines without cracking or leaking.

• Available in various mesh sizes, with 100 mesh (152 micron) being ideal for drip irrigation
• Clear cover allows for instant visual inspection
• Features a simple, tool-free blow-down valve for cleaning
• Requires manual flushing or the addition of an automated flush valve for hands-free maintenance

This filter is indispensable for farms utilizing micro-sprinklers, drip tapes, or livestock watering nipples. It is not necessary for basic garden hose watering where high pressure and high volume are the only requirements.

Tank Heater – Farm Innovators H-418 De-Icer

Freezing winter temperatures pose a major threat to rainwater harvesting systems, as expanding ice can crack tank walls, valves, and pipes. Keeping a small portion of the tank ice-free ensures that water remains liquid and accessible for livestock or winter greenhouse watering. A reliable, thermostatically controlled heater prevents costly winter damage without wasting electricity.

The Farm Innovators H-418 De-Icer is a rugged, cast-aluminum submersible heater designed to operate safely in plastic tanks. It features a built-in thermostat that automatically turns the unit on when water temperatures approach freezing and shuts it off when the water warms up. The heavy-duty design prevents the heating element from directly contacting the plastic tank walls, eliminating the risk of melting.

• Operates at 1250 watts for rapid heating in cold snaps
• Thermostatically controlled to operate only when needed
• Safe for use in both plastic and metal storage tanks
• Requires a reliable, outdoor-rated GFCI electrical outlet near the tank

This heater is a crucial winter accessory for farmers in northern climates who need to keep water flowing for livestock or winter crops. It is entirely unnecessary for regions that do not experience hard, prolonged winter freezes.

How to Maintain Your Rainwater System Safely

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping a rainwater harvesting system running smoothly and preventing unexpected failures during the growing season. A simple monthly inspection of the gutters, downspouts, and pre-filtration screens ensures that water can flow freely into the tank. Clearing away accumulated leaves and organic debris prevents the buildup of organic acids that can lower water pH.

Before the winter freeze sets in, it is critical to drain any exposed pipes, pumps, and external filters to prevent cracking. If using a first flush diverter, open the drain valve fully to empty the chamber so water does not freeze and split the PVC pipe. Regularly flushing the sediment buildup from the bottom of the tank every few years keeps the water clean and extends the lifespan of downstream irrigation filters.

Preventing Algae Growth in Your Storage Tank

Algae thrives on three main ingredients: sunlight, warmth, and organic nutrients. If a rainwater tank is translucent or has an unprotected inlet, algae will rapidly colonize the water, creating a green slime that clogs pumps and fouls irrigation lines. The most effective way to prevent this is to eliminate sunlight penetration by using opaque, dark-colored tanks and light-blocking inlet screens.

If algae does begin to take hold, treating the water with a food-safe, copper-free algaecide or a mild chlorine solution can help clear the system. For agricultural use, keeping the nutrient levels low by utilizing a first flush diverter is the best long-term preventative measure. Keeping the tank shaded by planting non-invasive trees or building a simple shelter also helps keep water temperatures cool, further discouraging algae growth.

Maximizing Your Rainwater Yield This Season

To get the most out of a rainwater harvesting system, it is essential to calculate the collection potential of the roof area. Every inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof can harvest approximately 600 gallons of highly usable water. Ensuring that gutters are properly sloped and free of leaks guarantees that none of this valuable resource is wasted during sudden, heavy downpours.

Spreading out water usage strategically during the season allows the tank to empty and refill multiple times, maximizing the total volume harvested over the year. Using the stored water for early-season plantings frees up tank capacity for mid-summer rains. Integrating a smart irrigation controller with the pump system ensures that water is applied precisely when and where the crops need it most, minimizing waste.

Upgrading a rainwater harvesting tank with these essential accessories turns a simple storage vessel into a highly reliable, low-maintenance agricultural asset. By protecting water quality, preventing winter damage, and automating distribution, a hobby farmer can secure a consistent water supply for seasons to come. Take the time to outfit your system correctly now, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a resilient, self-sustaining farmstead.