Best Downspout Diverters on the Market

With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best downspout diverter for your needs. In this article, we will discuss what they are, how they work, and what to look for when buying one. We also review some of the top-rated downspout diverters available on the market, taking into consideration factors such as ease of installation, durability, sizing, other technical considerations, and overall performance. 

Table of Contents

With this definitive guide you will gain an understanding of which downspout diverters are on the market, and which one is most suited to your situation.

We know you’d probably like to get straight to the point, so we’ve provided a quick summary of our top picks in the table below. Keep reading for an in-depth review of downspout diverts – What they are; what to look for when buying one; and frequently asked questions to help you decide what is best for you.

Please note that as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Image	Product	Features	Price
	EarthMinded FlexiFit Diverter	Fits any standard rectangular downspout (including 3 x 4 inch). Easy to install by drilling a single hole into the downspout. Once the barrel or tank is full, the diverter will automatically. pass excess water through the downspout (must be positioned correctly). Can either be purchased as a kit (with all components required) or just the diverter itself.	Check Price
	Flex Drainz Downspout Rainwater Collection Diverter	Can be purchased in either a 2 x 3 inch or 3 x 4 inch to suit your downspout. Prevents clogs by filtering leaves or other coarse debris with an integrated screen. Kit includes required parts for an easy install. Outlet can attach to a simple garden hose to make plumbing easy.	Check Price
	Prestantious Downspout Diverter Rainwater Diverter	Fits a standard 3 x 4 inch rectangular downspout. Features a valve that allows adjustment of the flow rate diverted to your rainwater collection system. Designed with a outlet port on its right side (check your downspout to make sure this will work) The kit comes with 4ft of flexible hose to connect your rain barrel or tank.	Check Price
	EBaokuup Rainwater Collection System	Can be purchased in either a 2 x 3 inch or 3 x 4 inch to suit your downspout. Does not connect to a pipe. Rain barrel or tank inlet must be positioned just right to collect water Easy to operate with a magnet that prevents holds the device in position when not in use Easy installation by cutting section of downspout out. You must make should downspout is well supported.	Check Price
	Skywater Downspout Diverter	Fits standard 2 x 3 inch downspouts. Allows you to connect hoses directly to your downspout. Does not have functionality to split only a portion of the flow Very easy installation. Simply position on the end of the downspout, tighten the thumbscrews, and connect your hose.	Check Price
	Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System	Fits standard 2 x 3 inch downspouts. Kit comes with 4ft of hose to connect to rain barrel or tank inlet Comes with a red cap that stops flow. Recommended for winterizing or when the barrel is full. Simple design. Comes with good instructions on installation.	Check Price
	Tintsabo Rain Barrel Diverter Kit	Can be purchased to suit either a 2 x 3 inch or 3 x 4 inch downspout. Left and right dual water outlet design. Can locate valve either side, or both. Comes with plug for side not in use. Has some ability to screen larger material out of the rainwater harvesting system.	Check Price
	KMJETNIVY Rainwater Harvesting System	Fits standard 2 x 3 inch downspouts. Adjustable rainwater collector - the amount of water collected can be adjusted. Available in white or brown to suit your downspout. Company advises that the invention patent is pending.	Check Price
	Raoaoqoon Rainwater Collection System	Fits standard 2 x 3 inch downspouts. Internal piping allows large volumes of rainwater to pass through, avoiding clogging. Comes with a red cap that stops flow. Recommended for winterizing or when the barrel is full. Company offers 30 days free return service.	Check Price

What is a downspout (downpipe) diverter?

Downspout diverters are simple devices that allow you to connect your downspout (downpipe) to a rainwater collection system. There are many variations on this theme, but they are typically designed to divert a portion of the flow to supply a tank or rain barrel, whilst the remainder goes back through the downspout to the stormwater system in order to avoid overflowing the tank.

Most house downspouts can easily be tapped into to install a downspout diverter. You will need a model that fits your downspout pipe profile and dimensions. Depending on the design, you will either cut out a section of the downspout and install the diverter, or you will drill into the downspout and insert the device to collect a portion of the flow. It is always smart to install it high on the downspout so that the diverted flow can easily fall via gravity to the rain barrel or storage tank. From there you can utilise the water as required. 

One further consideration is the quality of the water for its intended use. A first flush device is commonly used to discard the first portion of runoff from the roof This is the most contaminated portion of flow. You may also wish to screen leaves and other debris before diverting flow into your storage device. Importantly, you will need to consider what happens when your storage tank is full. Will your downspout diverter stop diverting? Or will the overflow be diverted back into your stormwater system?

What to Look For When Buying a Downspout Diverter

Here are some important factors to consider to ensure you make the best decision possible:

1. Check the profile and dimensions of your downspout. The device you choose must match your downspout to ensure easily installation. For example, does your house have standard 2 x 3 or 3 x 4 inch downspouts, or are they round 90 mm, as is typical in Australia and other places? We recommend measuring your downspout before you order your downspout diverter.
2. Does the device screen out leaves and other debris? If not, you may wish to install gutter guard screening or some other system.
3. Does the device kit include spigot and downspout connection, screws and other parts?
4. How will the device attach to your rainwater collection tank? Do you need to purchase special size pipe for this? Will the pipe be flexible and easy to adjust the position? Does the downspout diverter kit include pipe or flexible hose?
5. Do you have the tools for the job and does the downspout diverter kit include any specific tools. For example, you may need specific drill bits or hole saws which may be included in the kit.
6. How will you connect excess rainwater back into the downspout or drain? Will the device provide this functionality, or do you need an overflow from the tank to connect back in to your drainage?
7. What materials and build quality does the device have. Within your budget, we recommend buying the best quality products.
8. What will the operation and maintenance be? Do you need to operate a valve every time it rains? Will you need to clean out screened materials? And if so, how often?
9. Price. As always, the amount you pay will be a consideration. We recommend clicking the ‘Check Price’ links below for each option so that you have up-to-date price information.
10. Make sure you are purchasing from a reputable dealer, and you buy online with confidence. Does the dealer provide good customer support? Free shipping? What is the availability of the product and components etc. 

There are clearly many considerations, and we want you to make the best choice possible. See our comprehensive list of great options below to help you effectively purchase a downspout diverter and start collecting rainwater as soon as possible.

A Final Thought on Downspout Diverter Systems

When it comes to choosing the best downspout diverter for your rainwater collection system, there are plenty of options available, but you must find the option that suits your situation, and your downspout the best. Consider factors such as ease of installation, durability, the need for a first flush device, and overall performance to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rainwater collector, using a downspout diverter is a great way for you to capture rainwater for later use, and thereby reduce your dependence on the utility supply and save money on your water bill.

FAQ

Q: What are downspout diverters?

A: Downspout diverters are devices used to redirect rainwater from downspouts to a desired location, such as a rain barrel or tank, or in some cases away from the foundation of a building.

Q: How do downspout diverters work?

A: Downspout diverters typically attach to the downspout of a gutter system. They feature a mechanism that allows you to direct the flow of rainwater to a different location, such as a rain barrel, tank, or a designated drainage area.

Q: Are downspout diverters easy to install?

A: Yes, most downspout diverters are designed to be easy to install. They usually come with installation instructions and require minimal tools and effort to set up.

Q: Can downspout diverters be used with different downspout sizes?

A: Yes, many downspout diverters are compatible with various downspout sizes, including 2×3 inch and 3×4 inch downspouts, or round 75mm, 90mm or 110mm PVC pipes. However, it is important to check the product specifications to ensure compatibility.

Q: What materials are downspout diverters made of?

A: Downspout diverters are commonly made of materials such as PVC, plastic, and durable resin. The choice of material may vary depending on the brand and model.

Q: Can downspout diverters be used with rain barrel systems?

A: Yes, many downspout diverters are designed specifically for use with rain barrel systems. They often include a spigot and downspout extension to make it easier to collect rainwater.

Q: Is it important to have a filter with a downspout diverter?

A: While not all downspout diverters come with a built-in filter, using a filter can help prevent debris from entering the rainwater collection system, ensuring cleaner water for use.

Q: Where can I purchase downspout diverters?

A: Downspout diverters are available for purchase from various sources, including home improvement stores, online retailers, and specialized rainwater harvesting suppliers. Check out the links above for product pages and prices.

Q: Are downspout diverters compatible with all gutter downspouts?

A: Downspout diverters are designed to be compatible with most standard gutter downspouts. However, it is recommended to measure your downspout and check the product specifications to ensure proper fit.

Q: Can downspout diverters help prevent building foundation damage?

A: Yes, by diverting rainwater away from the foundation of a building, downspout diverters can help prevent water seepage and potential damage to the foundation. However, if this is your issue, we recommend seeking the advice of a professional to prevent further damage and resolve the issue.