How to Drain a Barrel

Making the Drain Hole

• 1

  Measure and mark the place for the drain, approximately one inch from the bottom of the barrel. You will want to place the drainage hole on the side of the barrel with the best access; for instance, if you're draining a rain barrel, place the hole on the side of the barrel opposite the house wall.

• 2

  Cut a 3/4-inch hole in the barrel at the spot you have marked, using the hole saw.

• 3

  Thread the hole using the 3/4-inch tap.

Drain Options

• 4

  Seal the 1/2-inch male adaptor by wrapping the threads with tightly with Teflon tape and covering the threads of the connector with waterproof sealant. Allow 24 hours for the sealant to dry. This method will enable you to attach a hose directly to the barrel for ongoing drainage.

• 5

  Attach the spigot to the tap, as an alternative to the adaptor. Determine if the seal is tight. If not, apply Teflon tape to the threads of the spigot and sealant to the threads of the connector. This method will enable you to use the spigot to drain the barrel, particularly if the barrel will sit on a frame or stand that allows room to place a bucket under the spigot.

• 6

  Use PVC pipe to connect the tap to a ball valve, as a third option for draining the barrel. Again, check the seals to see if they're tight; if not, apply Teflon tape and waterproof sealant in the appropriate places. When you connect a hose to the ball valve, you can use the valve to control drainage, making this a hybrid of the other two options.