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Fix a rain barrel that will not drain

We'll clear the spigot, unclog the overflow, and tell you when to replace the barrel.

Troubleshooting · Home plumbing
10–25 min
What you'll need
  • Bucket
  • Replacement spigot (if needed)
Step 1 of 4

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Steps

Goal: Clear the spigot and overflow so the barrel drains.

  • Confirm the barrel has water. Open the spigot fully.
  • Clear debris from the spigot. Unclog the overflow.
  • Good: Barrel drains. Bad: Replace the spigot or barrel.

Clear spigot

Goal: Remove blockages from the spigot.

  • Remove the spigot if possible and flush. Or use a wire to clear the opening.
  • Good: Water flows. Bad: Replace the spigot.

When to replace

Replace the spigot or barrel if:

  • The spigot is cracked or the valve does not work.
  • The barrel is cracked or leaking.

Verification

  • Water flows from the spigot when it is open.
  • Overflow clears when the barrel is full.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Check spigot Confirm the spigot is open and the barrel has water.
  2. Clear spigot Remove debris from the spigot opening.
  3. Unclog overflow Clear the overflow hole or hose.
  4. Replace spigot Replace the spigot if broken or cracked.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Water level in barrel
  • Spigot condition
  • Overflow condition
  • Steps already tried

Does the barrel have water?

An empty barrel will not drain. Check the water level.

Check the water level. Has water: check the spigot and overflow. Empty: wait for rain or add water to test. Clean the inlet screen so the barrel can fill.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Barrel was empty

Add water or wait for rain. Clean the inlet screen. Test the spigot when the barrel has water.

Done

Did clearing the spigot fix the drain?

Clear debris from the spigot. Ensure it is fully open.

Open the spigot fully. Clear any debris from the opening. If the spigot is cracked or the valve does not work, replace it. Good: water flows. Bad: overflow may be clogged—clear it. If spigot is broken, replace it.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Replace the spigot

Replace the spigot if it is broken or cracked. If the barrel still will not drain after clearing and replacing, the barrel may be damaged—replace it.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

Why would a rain barrel not drain?
Common causes: debris blocking the spigot, a clogged overflow, a closed or stuck spigot valve, or a cracked fitting. Sediment and leaves can accumulate and block flow.
Can I fix a rain barrel drain myself?
Yes. You can clear the spigot, unclog the overflow, and clean the screen. If the spigot or overflow fitting is cracked, you can replace it. A badly damaged barrel may need replacement.
When should I replace a rain barrel?
Replace the barrel if: it is cracked, the spigot and overflow fittings are broken and cannot be replaced, or the barrel is leaking from the body. Many barrels have replaceable spigots.

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