Shop Water Barrel System

Plumbing • Fabrication • Practical Shop Infrastructure

Designed a shop water collection system using a dehumidifier drain line and a welded steel support frame. The system provides a convenient non-potable water source for cleaning tools and materials.

Why This Project?

Before this system, getting water meant a 300-foot walk to the house while carrying buckets. This was inefficient, messy, and disruptive to shop work.

Core Solution

Welded steel frame supports barrel
PVC plumbing connected to dehumidifier condensate
Continuous water supply in humid Louisiana climate

Build Process

Frame Fabrication

Frame built from HSS 1½x1½x⅛ tube steel and 3x3x¼ angle, cut and welded to form a rigid base.

Wood Supports

4x6 pine pieces were cut to cradle the barrel and distribute load.

Plumbing Setup

PVC pipes, connectors, and valves were glued in place and connected to the dehumidifier drain line.

Gallery (Placeholders)

Lessons Learned

Simple infrastructure projects save massive time long-term.
PVC plumbing is forgiving but requires careful alignment.
Shop humidity can become a useful resource.