Is your rain buckets ready for rain, rain buckets are not only good at collecting and measuring rainwater, but they are fabulous at collecting dust, bird droppings, and leaves. One of the heaviest times of the year for kicking up dust and debris is during harvest. This makes right after harvest the perfect time to check and see if your rain bucket needs cleaning.
Cleaning your rain bucket is something that should be done at least once a year. In some locations with high levels of dust in debris in the air, you may want to check the bucket more throughout the rainy season. Taking the time to do this will help ensure rain events are captured. In some years and regions, these could be the most substantial events for the season!
Deciding to clean a rain bucket will likely depend on how the weather station is set up. On weather stations where the bucket is mounted in the 5’ to 10’ range a step ladder can make cleaning buckets a 5-minute task that most growers can manage on their own. In cases where the rain bucket is raised above the tree canopy, having a dealer service the station may be the safest option.
Rain Bucket Ready for Rain: Steps to Cleaning A Rain Bucket
- Step 1 – Separate the cone from the base by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Step 2 – Remove and clean the debris screen. Use a soft, damp cloth to remove any debris from the cone and tipping spoons. Be careful not to scratch the silver-colored coating on the spoons.
- Step 3 – Use pipe cleaners to clean the funnel hole in the cone and drain screens in the base.
- Step 4 – When all parts are clean, rinse with clear water, and replace the cone and debris screen.
If you have a rain bucket that needs cleaning or weather station that requires servicing and would like help give us a call at (559) 459-5321. Or email jiisupport@jainsusa.com and we will have a service visit scheduled to get you ready for the rainy season.
