Installation Guide

EarthMinded has assembled all the parts needed to add a diverter system to any rain barrel (barrel not included).
Using this kit, anyone who can use a drill can install a rain barrel diverter in minutes! Works with plastic and wood
rain barrels and tanks.
User Guide FDS-0001 V.1
FlexiFit
™
Universal Rain Barrel Diverter System
Please read all instructions and warnings before installation, and retain this Booklet for future reference
1
Rain barrels have been used for hundreds of years to harvest and
store rainwater for use with plants, gardens and other outdoor
chores.
EarthMinded’s Universal Diverter System is a state-of-the art
rainwater collection system to be used with a barrel or container
you supply. Our FlexiFit™ diverter installs easily by drilling a single
hole into any standard 2” x 3” or 3” x 4”* rectangular downspout.
The diverter sends rainwater into the barrel. Once the barrel is
full, the diverter will automatically pass excess water through the
downspout.
The diverter is easy to remove from the downspout and the kit
includes a winter hole cover.
The FlexiFit diverter offers many advantages over conventional
top fill rain barrels that commonly flood with heavy rain, require
permanent modifications to your downspout, and use unsightly
overflow hoses.
*Water capture percentage is reduced with 3”x 4” downspouts
•Round downspout diverter and cover available as an accessory
Some areas prohibit the use of rain barrels. Please check local
regulations before installing.
General description
1. Fill hose
2. FlexiFit diverter
3. Winter hole cover
WARNING
Stored rainwater is not for human
or animal consumption
Selecting a container
3
This kit includes only the diverter system to be added to a barrel you supply.
Therefore, we take no responsibility for losses, damages or injury caused
by failure of the barrel, or improper installation of the parts. Follow these
instructions carefully for successful results.
This kit will work on both sealed, open top barrels, and top fill rain barrels.
If the rain barrel is pre-drilled for an overflow hose, seal the opening to preserve
the automatic overflow function of the FlexiFit diverter. For new top fill rain barrel
installations, do not drill and install the overflow hose.
Water weighs 8.3 lbs. per gallon. Be sure to select a sturdy container that can
support the weight when full. 55 gallons of water weighs 456 lbs.
Select a sturdy watertight container:
a. A commercial grade plastic waste barrel with latching lid.
b. A traditional wood barrel
c. If using a recycled barrel, use only FDA approved food grade barrels.
Make sure the barrel is clean and has not been used to contain toxic
or hazardous substances.
The container selected should be sealed, or have a locking lid to prevent
mosquitoes, animals and children from entering the barrel.
This kit is not for use with metal drums or barrels.
a. Plastic Waste Barrel (Open Top) b. Wood Barrel c. Recycled Plastic Barrel (Sealed)
WARNING
Stored rainwater is not
suitable for human or
animal consumption
Select a location for your rain barrel
4
Before installing the diverter we recommend that you select and prepare the
location where the barrel will be used. This will help you to locate the water inlet
on the barrel in the most suitable location.
• Choose a downspout that is near the plants or garden beds to be watered.
• The downspout must be a standard rectangular 2” x 3” or 3” x 4”.*
• The barrel must be located within 28”(71cm) of the downspout to use the fill
hose provided.
• The ground under the barrel must be level and firm. A solid surface base of
wood, pavers, or stone is recommended.
*Water capture percentage is reduced with 3”x 4” downspouts
1. Place the barrel in the intended location with the front facing out.
2. If the surface is not level, use a shovel or rake to grade the surface. Check
eeeby placing a level on the rim of the barrel before continuing.
3. Hold the fill hose in position between the barrel and the downspout and
eeemark the water inlet location on the rim of the barrel. This mark can be at
eeethe back, right or left side of the barrel.
eeeCheck that the hose can reach horizontally from the mark on the barrel to
eeethe downspout.
28” MAX
6” MIN
Top View
1
3
1
3
5
3”
3”
Installing the fill hose seal
1. Locate the water inlet mark on the barrel (from Step 4). Measure
down 3” (76mm) and mark the center for the water inlet hole. Make
sure the water inlet is located on a flat or evenly curved surface: avoid
ridges or other features that could affect the water seal.
2. Drill a single hole using the (SMALLER) 1-1/2”(38mm) hole saw
included in the set.
3. Insert the fill hose seal into the hole. Pinch the seal into a “U” shape
for easier insertion.
Back of barrel
1-1/2”
(38mm)
Hole Saw
Parts list
Tools needed
2
1. Safety Glasses
2. Safety Gloves
3. Drill
4. Measuring
Tape or Ruler
5. Pencil
6. Phillips
Screwdriver
7. Level
Fill Hose Seal
Fill Hose
Winter Hole
Cover
Instructions
Flexifit Diverter
TM
2 Pc. Hole Saw Set
Barrel Not
Included
1
2
3
FRN-068
FRN-043
2 Screws
FRN-054
FRN-009
FRN-008
(71cm)
(15cm)
REMOVE LID
BEFORE MEASURING