Rainwater is better for garden plants than tap water, and can easily be collected in a water butt. Water butts are easy to fit, too – just follow these simple steps:

• Select a downpipe that is not in a prominent position with plenty of room to stand a butt nearby. 
  Cut the downpipe at the desired height and fit a diverter. 
• Ensure the butt is on a water butt stand or firm base, preferably above the ground so you can get a watering can easily under the tap. 
• A firm base is important otherwise, when the water butt is full, it could affect the angle of the bypass diverters, causing them to overflow. It's best to purchase a water butt stand and most are universal.
• Make sure your water butt or any other collection vessel has a secure, childproof lid. As well as protecting children it will also prevent debris and mosquitoes from entering.

Southern Water customers can buy discounted water butts from our partners Save Water.