Compare water butts: butt, rainwater column, stand and diverter

A water butt collects rainwater from the roof for the garden. On this page you compare water butts, rainwater columns and wall tanks from Garantia and Harcostar, with the stands, diverters and lids that go with them.

Which shape suits your space?

• Round water butt: the classic butt of 100 to about 350 litres, often the most affordable choice.
• Rainwater column or wall tank: tall and slim or flat against the wall, for a narrow spot along the house.
• Amphora or 2-in-1: a decorative butt, sometimes with a planter in the lid.

Diverter and stand

A rain diverter fits into the downpipe. It guides the water into the butt and lets it run down the pipe again once the butt is full. Check the size of your downpipe: many diverters fit several diameters (DN 70 to 100). A stand raises the butt so a watering can fits under the tap.

Tap, lid and extras

Most water butts have a tap at the bottom or a fitting for one. On a stand, a watering can fits underneath and the water runs to a hose with more pressure. Some sets come complete with stand, diverter, tap and lid; with a single butt you buy those parts separately. If one butt is not enough, you can place two side by side. The title and specifications show what comes with each butt.

Safe use

Rainwater is not drinking water. Always keep the butt covered: that is safer for children and animals, and mosquitoes do not get a chance. Empty the butt before the frost or disconnect the diverter. Pumps for the butt can be found at garden pumps, and all watering at watering.