If you’re searching for an honest, field-tested RTS rain barrel review, you’re in the right place. This in-depth guide examines the RTS Home Accents 50 Gallon Rain Barrel with a special focus on build quality, overflow behavior, downspout diverter compatibility (including the Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System), and how well the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit works in real-world setups. Along the way, we’ll cover details like the mosquito screen, UV-stabilized resin, brass spigot fit and finish, and best practices for overflow hose routing so you can set up a reliable, low-maintenance, and high-value rain harvesting system.
RTS Rain Barrel Review: Quick Verdict
The RTS Home Accents 50 Gallon Rain Barrel is a dependable, attractive option for homeowners who want a durable, faux-wood aesthetic without the maintenance of real wood. Its UV-stabilized resin resists fading and cracking, the integrated mosquito screen keeps debris and pests out, and the brass spigot provides a secure garden-hose connection. While any 50 gallon rain barrel fills quickly in moderate rain, pairing this model with a downspout diverter like the Oatey Mystic dramatically improves overflow control. If you anticipate frequent heavy storms or want to expand capacity, the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit makes scaling up straightforward.
What’s Included and What You’ll Need
RTS Home Accents typically ships the 50 gallon rain barrel with a top inlet covered by a mosquito screen, a front brass spigot near the bottom for hose attachment or filling watering cans, and a higher port or knockout designed to help with overflow and linking (exact configuration can vary by production run). A stand and diverter are not included, so plan for a sturdy base and a compatible downspout diverter – most homeowners prefer the Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System because it’s simple, widely available, and returns water to the downspout once the barrel is full.
- Included: 50 gallon rain barrel body (faux-wood resin), mosquito screen, brass spigot, molded overflow position/port (varies by model).
- Not included: Downspout diverter, stand or blocks, overflow hose, thread seal tape, linking kit (sold separately).
- Optional accessories: Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System, RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit, additional 3/4 in garden hose for overflow or remote watering, flexible tubing for higher-flow overflow, hose shutoff valve, hose quick-connects.
RTS Rain Barrel Review: Specifications and Build Quality
Build quality matters for any outdoor container that holds water under pressure and cycles through seasons. The RTS barrel’s UV-stabilized resin resists sun damage while offering a realistic wood-grain look. The circular, wide-body design keeps the center of gravity low for better stability, and the front-facing spigot placement is convenient for attaching hoses or filling cans.
| Feature | Details (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 50 gallons |
| Material | UV-stabilized polyethylene resin |
| Finish | Faux-wood texture and color (various stain tones available) |
| Inlet | Top opening with integrated mosquito screen |
| Spigot | 3/4 in brass spigot with standard garden hose thread |
| Overflow | High-side port/knockout for overflow or linking (model-dependent) |
| Footprint | Compact round profile; fits beside standard 2×3 or 3×4 downspouts |
| Maintenance | Rinse screen seasonally; drain and store or invert for winter |
Material and UV Protection
The UV-stabilized resin is the backbone of the barrel’s longevity. It’s designed to handle sun exposure without becoming brittle or overly faded. While all plastics weather over many years, the UV treatment slows discoloration and surface chalking. You can further protect the barrel by placing it in partial shade or using a breathable cover during the off-season.
Brass Spigot and Threads
The brass spigot is a major advantage over plastic taps. Brass threads are less likely to cross-thread, leak, or crack during seasonal temperature swings. Use a few wraps of thread seal tape when installing or reseating the spigot and avoid overtightening. For convenience, add a quick-connect fitting or a Y-splitter to run a short hose to a watering can while leaving a soaker hose attached.
Top Inlet and Mosquito Screen
The built-in mosquito screen blocks leaves, shingle grit, and insects from entering the barrel. Keep this screen clear; a clogged screen reduces inflow and can cause water to back up toward the downspout. A quick brush-off after storms and a seasonal rinse are usually sufficient. If you live in a heavy pollen or leaf-drop area, consider adding a downspout filter basket upstream of the diverter.
Overflow Behavior and Hose Options
Every 50 gallon rain barrel fills quickly. As a rule of thumb, 1 inch of rain on 1,000 square feet of roof yields about 623 gallons of water. That means a modest shower could fill this barrel several times over. Your overflow plan is as important as your inlet plan.
Choosing an Overflow Strategy
- Use a Downspout Diverter: The Oatey Mystic returns excess water to the downspout automatically once the barrel is full.
- Direct Overflow Hose: Connect an overflow hose from a high-side port to a safe drainage area, a rain garden, or a second barrel.
- Redundant Protection: Even with a diverter, consider a short overflow hose as a backup during intense cloudbursts.
What Size Overflow Hose?
For best performance, use the largest practical hose diameter. A 3/4 in garden hose can work, especially in tandem with a diverter, but high-intensity rain may outpace it. If your barrel has a high-side port that accepts a larger barb adapter, step up to 1 in or 1-1/4 in ID flexible tubing to move water faster. Always pitch the hose downward away from your foundation and secure it so it won’t kink or pop off under surge flow.
Preventing Erosion and Splashback
Route overflow to a splash block, dry well, or landscaped area designed to absorb water. Avoid dumping onto bare soil near the foundation. If you run a garden hose to the lawn, drill a few small holes along the last 12 – 18 inches to diffuse the outflow, reducing erosion during heavy discharge.
Downspout Diverter Compatibility: Oatey Mystic and More
For set-and-forget overflow control, a downspout diverter is the smartest accessory you can buy. The Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System is a simple, reliable choice and works with standard residential downspouts (commonly 2×3 or 3×4). When the barrel fills, water continues down the downspout instead of spilling from the barrel. This not only prevents mess but also reduces pressure on your overflow hose and fittings.
Why the Oatey Mystic Pairs Well with the RTS 50 Gallon Rain Barrel
- Automatic Bypass: When the barrel is full, excess water stays inside the downspout.
- Clean Inlet: The diverter accepts water from inside the downspout, helping minimize debris on the barrel screen.
- Easy Retrofit: It mounts directly to existing aluminum or vinyl downspouts with basic tools.
- Compatibility: The RTS inlet sits neatly below typical downspout height; use the included tubing or a short garden hose to connect.
Step-by-Step: Installing the Oatey Mystic with Your RTS Barrel
- Choose Location: Place the barrel on a level, reinforced base at least 16 – 20 inches high. Cinder blocks or a custom wood stand work well.
- Mark Height: The diverter should sit several inches above the barrel’s inlet so gravity feeds the barrel.
- Attach Diverter: Follow the Oatey Mystic instructions to fasten the diverter to the downspout. Ensure the internal baffle faces the water flow.
- Connect Tubing: Run the diverter tubing to the barrel’s inlet, securing with clamps. Keep the run short with a gentle downhill slope.
- Test Flow: Spray the roof or run a hose into the gutter to confirm water enters the barrel and bypasses cleanly when full.
- Add Backup Overflow: If your barrel has a high-side port, connect an overflow hose to a safe discharge point.
Setup and Installation: From Base to First Rain
A little preparation goes a long way. A 50 gallon rain barrel weighs over 400 pounds when full, so a solid foundation is essential for safety and performance.
Build a Stable, Level Base
- Excavate 2 – 3 inches and compact the soil.
- Add a paver base or gravel, then top with patio pavers or concrete blocks.
- Check level in both directions. Re-level after the first heavy rain if necessary.
Seal and Seat the Spigot
- Wrap threads with PTFE tape 3 – 4 times.
- Hand-tighten the brass spigot; use a wrench for a final snug quarter-turn.
- Do not overtighten; overtightening can distort the gasket or fitting.
Connect the Diverter and Overflow
- Fit the Oatey Mystic to your downspout and run the tubing to the barrel’s inlet.
- If your barrel includes a high-side port, add an overflow hose and route it away from the foundation.
- Install a short leader hose from the spigot to a garden area or watering station.
First Fill and Leak Check
As the barrel fills, check around the spigot and any threaded fittings for drips. Tighten gently as needed. Confirm that overflow behaves as expected by elevating the water level to the top of the inlet (run a hose into the diverter or downspout). Adjust hose clamps and slope until the system drains reliably.
Using the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit
If you want more storage without crowding your downspout with multiple diverters, the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit makes expansion easy. Linking barrels at the top creates a cascading overflow, while linking at the bottom equalizes water levels across barrels.
Top-Linking vs. Bottom-Linking
- Top-Linking (Overflow Series): Water fills the first barrel, then spills into the next via a high-side connection. Good for preventing overpressure at the base fittings.
- Bottom-Linking (Equalization): A low connection keeps barrels at the same water level. This approach maximizes usable volume and balances draw from multiple spigots.
Step-by-Step: Linking Two RTS Barrels
- Position Barrels: Place them on level, equally high bases and leave space for fittings.
- Mark Ports: Identify the molded plugs/ports on each barrel. For bottom-linking, align as low as possible. For top-linking, use high-side ports.
- Install Bulkhead Fittings: Follow the linking kit instructions to drill (if required) and insert gaskets and bulkheads.
- Attach Hose: Cut to length, avoid kinks, and use clamps. For higher flow, choose wider ID tubing if your kit supports it.
- Test: Fill partially and inspect for leaks. Tighten clamps gently and recheck.
Real-World Performance and Usability
The RTS 50 gallon rain barrel excels at what it’s designed to do: provide a compact, attractive reservoir for garden irrigation and plant care. The brass spigot is sturdy enough for routine on/off cycles, and the mosquito screen prevents clogs when maintained. As with all 50 gallon rain barrels, the single biggest variable is overflow management – hence the strong recommendation for a downspout diverter and a well-sized overflow hose.
Filling Speed and Expected Yield
- Roof Area 500 sq ft: About 0.16 inches of rain will fill 50 gallons.
- Roof Area 1,000 sq ft: About 0.08 inches of rain will fill 50 gallons.
- Takeaway: Most light showers fill the barrel; plan for overflow early.
Flow from the Spigot
Elevating the barrel improves flow. A 16 – 24 inch lift typically provides adequate pressure for gravity-fed watering, short soaker hoses, or bucket filling. For drip systems, a pressure-regulated setup or a small transfer pump will provide more consistent output, but many gardeners find the gravity flow sufficient for hand-watering and spot irrigation.
Stability and Safety
A full barrel is heavy. Set it on a strong, level base and periodically confirm the stand hasn’t shifted. Keep hoses routed so they don’t create tripping hazards. If children play nearby, secure the barrel against tipping and ensure the screen is fully seated.
RTS Rain Barrel Review: Pros and Cons
- Pros
- UV-stabilized resin with convincing faux-wood look.
- Brass spigot for reliable, leak-resistant garden hose attachment.
- Effective mosquito screen; easy to remove and clean.
- Compact footprint with good stability when placed on a level base.
- Works seamlessly with the Oatey Mystic downspout diverter.
- Expandable storage with the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit.
- Cons
- Like all 50 gallon units, it fills quickly in modest rain.
- Diverter, stand, and overflow hose not included.
- High-flow overflow may require a larger hose and adapter.
- Color and port configurations can vary by production run.
Who Should Buy the RTS 50 Gallon Rain Barrel?
Choose this barrel if you value a classic look, solid materials, and easy compatibility with common diverters. It’s ideal for small- to medium-size gardens, patios, and ornamental beds where 50 gallons provides meaningful watering between rains. If you need more capacity, plan on linking a second barrel or stepping up to a larger unit. For homeowners who want low-maintenance rain capture without plumbing complexity, this is a compelling pick.
Alternatives and Comparison
Several brands compete in the 45 – 65 gallon range. Here’s a high-level comparison to help you choose:
| Model | Capacity | Material | Diverter Included | Spigot | Overflow Port | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTS Home Accents 50 Gallon | 50 gal | UV-stabilized resin | No | Brass | Yes (varies by model) | Great aesthetics; easy to link with RTS kit |
| Good Ideas Rain Wizard 50 | 50 gal | Rotomolded resin | No | Brass | Yes | Popular budget-friendly alternative |
| Algreen Cascata 65 | 65 gal | Roto-molded PE | No | Brass | Yes | Higher capacity; amphora style |
If your priority is aesthetics and durability with simple expansion options, the RTS remains a top-tier choice. If you’re chasing maximum volume, consider stepping up in size or linking multiple 50 gallon barrels using the RTS kit.
Maintenance, Care, and Winterization
Well-maintained rain barrels deliver cleaner water and last longer. The good news is that RTS barrels are easy to care for.
Routine Care
- Monthly: Brush off the mosquito screen and rinse if needed.
- After Big Storms: Check diverter alignment and remove accumulated debris in the downspout.
- Quarterly: Inspect spigot, gaskets, and hoses for seepage; re-tape threads if necessary.
Algae and Odor Control
- Keep Light Out: The opaque faux-wood body reduces algae growth.
- Flush Occasionally: Drain completely and rinse to remove sediment.
- Use Mosquito Dunks: BTI-based dunks are commonly used for mosquito control; follow local guidelines.
Winterization
- Before First Freeze: Drain the barrel fully and leave the spigot open.
- Disconnect Diverter: Switch the downspout back to straight-through mode or bypass the barrel.
- Cover or Store: In freezing climates, store under cover or invert to prevent ice damage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leak at the Spigot
Remove, rewrap with PTFE tape, and retighten to snug. Confirm the gasket is seated flat and not pinched.
Slow Fill Rate
Check the downspout diverter alignment, clean the mosquito screen, and ensure the inlet tubing slopes downward without kinks.
Overflow Near Foundation
Upgrade to a larger-diameter overflow hose, shorten the run, and ensure it pitches away from the house. Consider adding a rain garden or dry well for dispersion.
Poor Flow at the Spigot
Raise the barrel on a taller stand for more head pressure, remove hose kinks, and keep the hose length short. Gravity systems benefit from minimal restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the RTS 50 gallon rain barrel compatible with the Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System?
Yes. The Oatey Mystic downspout diverter pairs well with the RTS barrel. It feeds water through the downspout tubing into the barrel’s top inlet and automatically returns excess water down the downspout when the barrel is full.
What size overflow hose should I use?
Use the largest size your high-side port and fittings support. A 3/4 in garden hose can work for light to moderate rain, but 1 in to 1-1/4 in ID tubing handles storm surges better. Keep the run short and sloped away from the foundation.
Does the brass spigot accept standard garden hoses?
Yes. The spigot uses standard 3/4 in garden hose threads. Use PTFE tape when installing and avoid overtightening.
Can I link multiple RTS 50 gallon barrels?
Yes. The RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit allows top-linking for overflow series or bottom-linking for water level equalization. Position barrels on level, sturdy bases and test connections for leaks.
How do I prevent mosquitoes?
Keep the mosquito screen in place and clean. Ensure all fittings are snug, with no standing water on lid depressions. In many regions, BTI-based mosquito dunks are used; follow label directions and local regulations.
Is the resin UV-stabilized?
Yes. The RTS barrel uses UV-stabilized resin designed to resist fading and embrittlement in sunlight. Placement in partial shade and seasonal cleaning further extend longevity.
Will a 50 gallon rain barrel really help my garden?
Absolutely. Fifty gallons provides several deep waterings for containers, raised beds, or new plantings. For larger beds or frequent irrigation, plan to link a second barrel or add a larger-capacity tank.
Do I need a special stand?
You don’t need a brand-specific stand, but you do need a stable, level platform capable of supporting over 400 pounds. Pavers or stacked blocks are common. Elevation improves gravity flow at the spigot.
Can I use a soaker hose?
Short soaker hoses often work if the barrel is elevated, but performance varies. For longer runs or consistent pressure, use a small transfer pump or consider drip irrigation with a gravity-compatible regulator.
RTS Rain Barrel Review Conclusion: Final Thoughts
This RTS rain barrel review finds the RTS Home Accents 50 Gallon Rain Barrel to be a smart, durable choice for homeowners who value aesthetics, simplicity, and expandability. The UV-stabilized resin and brass spigot deliver long-term durability, the mosquito screen keeps the water cleaner, and pairing it with an Oatey Mystic downspout diverter solves the most common pain point – overflow. If you want more storage, the RTS Rain Barrel Linking Kit scales your system without fuss. For compact, reliable rain capture that looks good by the house, this 50 gallon rain barrel earns a strong recommendation.