A rainwater collection apparatus stores rainwater until required, and includes
at least one outlet for exporting rainwater. The outlet or outlets include ball-valve
assemblies and levers for opening and closing the outlets, and couplers for attachment
to a garden hose, thereby providing optimal control of the export of water. An
overflow port or outlet is provided as well. A drainage port at an inferior end
is provided to remove sediment. To aid in the usage and distribution of the water,
an internal submersible pump may be provided. The output of the pump is connected
to a conventional garden hose allowing the rain water from the barrel to be used
for washing of motor vehicles, watering of lawns and flowers, rinsing of driveways
and the like. The pump is controlled by an ON-OFF switch located on the side of
the barrel.