Everything You Need to Know About Rainwater Terrace’s 40mm and 50mm Downpipe Adapters: Perfect for Non-Standard Downpipes

Rainwater Terrace water butts are designed to help you collect and reuse rainwater efficiently, no matter the type of downpipe installed on your property. For homes with non-standard downpipes often used on sheds and greenhouses, Rainwater Terrace offers 40mm and 50mm downpipe adapters, which are an ideal solution for adapting different pipe sizes to fit their water butts.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the features of these adapters, explain their suitability for various downpipe sizes (from 32mm to 50mm), and guide you on how to install them. If you have a non-standard downpipe and want to maximize your rainwater collection, keep reading!

Understanding Downpipe Sizes and Their Challenges

The most common downpipe sizes in the UK are 68mm (circular) and 65mm (square), but many homes—especially homes with greenhouses, outbuildings or sheds—might have non-standard downpipes. These downpipes often range in size from 32mm to 50mm, making it tricky to find compatible rainwater harvesting systems.

This is where Rainwater Terrace’s 40mm and 50mm downpipe adapters come into play. These adapters bridge the gap between your non-standard downpipe and the water butt, ensuring a proper fit for seamless rainwater collection.



 

The 40mm and 50mm Downpipe Adapters: Key Features

Rainwater Terrace’s downpipe adapters are manufactured with the same attention to quality as their innovative water butts. Let’s take a closer look at the features of these adapters:

1. Durable Construction

Rainwater Terrace’s adapters are made from high-quality, UV-resistant plastic that is designed to withstand outdoor conditions year-round. Whether exposed to heavy rain, sun, or frost, these adapters will remain durable and functional, providing a long-lasting solution for your rainwater harvesting needs.

2. Versatile Fit

The 40mm and 50mm adapters are designed to fit a range of downpipes that fall outside the standard 68mm or 65mm sizes. They are suitable for circular downpipes measuring between 32mm and 50mm in diameter, making them incredibly versatile.

This adaptability means that whether your greenhouse or shed has a slightly smaller or larger downpipe, these adapters will ensure a secure and leak-free connection to your Rainwater Terrace water butt.

3. Easy Installation

No complicated tools or skills are required to install the 40mm or 50mm downpipe adapter. Each adapter is designed to fit directly onto your existing downpipe, connecting it to the diverter system of your Rainwater Terrace water butt.

Simply cut your downpipe at the appropriate height, slot the adapter into place, and attach the included diverter. This quick installation process allows you to begin harvesting rainwater in no time!

4. Optimal Water Flow

Both the 40mm and 50mm adapters are designed to maintain optimal water flow, ensuring that your water butt collects as much rainwater as possible. The adapters fit snugly and direct water efficiently from your downpipe into the water butt, minimizing water loss or overflow.

5. Compatibility with Rainwater Terrace Systems

These adapters are specifically designed to work seamlessly with the Rainwater Terrace water butt range. Whether you’re using a 2-tier, 3-tier, or expandable system, the adapters ensure that even homes with non-standard downpipes can enjoy the full benefits of the Rainwater Terrace setup.



 

Choosing the Right Adapter for Your Downpipe

To ensure the best fit, it’s essential to measure your downpipe accurately before choosing between the 40mm and 50mm adapters.

  • 40mm Adapter: Suitable for downpipes measuring between 32mm and 40mm. This is ideal for smaller or older downpipes commonly found on conservatories, sheds, or greenhouses.

  • 50mm Adapter: Fits downpipes measuring  50mm, offering a solution for larger non-standard downpipes.

If you’re unsure about your downpipe size, simply use a tape measure to check the external diameter of the pipe before purchasing the adapter.

How to Install the 40mm and 50mm Downpipe Adapters

Follow these simple steps to install your 40mm or 50mm adapter and start collecting rainwater:

  1. Measure & Cut: Measure your downpipe at the height where you want the water to divert into the butt, and make a clean cut using a saw.

  2. Attach the Adapter: Insert the 40mm or 50mm adapter into the downpipe where the cut was made. Make sure it fits securely.

  3. Connect the Diverter: Attach the diverter hose to the adapter. The diverter ensures that water is directed into the water butt while preventing overflow.

  4. Secure the Water Butt: Position your Rainwater Terrace water butt near the downpipe, and secure it in place. Connect the diverter hose to the water butt we supply 19mm and 25mm adapters in every kit, ensuring a tight fit to avoid leaks.

  5. Start Collecting: Once everything is in place, you’re ready to collect rainwater! The system will automatically divert rainwater into the butt, and any excess water will flow safely down the drain.

Benefits of Installing a Water Butt with a Downpipe Adapter This Autumn

Installing a water butt with a downpipe adapter during the autumn months offers several key advantages:

  • Maximise Rainwater Collection: Autumn typically brings consistent rainfall, making it an ideal time to start collecting water for use in your garden or household.

  • Prepare for Winter: With a water butt in place, you’ll be ready to water your garden during dry spells in spring or summer without relying on mains water.

  • Tidy Up the Garden: While you’re tidying up the garden for winter, why not add a rainwater harvesting system that can help nurture your plants throughout the year?

  • Environmental Impact: By installing a water butt, you reduce your reliance on mains water, making a positive contribution to the environment and saving on water bills.

Final Thoughts

Rainwater Terrace’s 40mm and 50mm downpipe adapters offer an excellent solution for greenhouses sheds or outbuildings with non-standard downpipes, making rainwater harvesting accessible to all. These adapters are easy to install, highly durable, and ensure optimal water flow, providing a seamless fit between your downpipe and water butt.

Don’t let a non-standard downpipe stop you from going green! Visit www.rainwater-terrace.com today and choose the right adapter for your home, so you can start collecting and reusing rainwater this autumn.

 

 

 

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