Improve Greenhouse Gutter Drain using PVC Adapter
If you own a Palram Canopia greenhouse, you may notice the gutter drains don't come with downspouts. This guide walks through a 3D adapter available on our webstore that connect the drain to schedule 80 PVC pipe. In this guide I show how I created a simple drain adapter and connected it to a PVC pipe so rainwater drains properly away from the greenhouse.
You can also watch as instructional video on youtube.
Materials
- SCH80 PVC pipe
- Greenbridge 3D drain adapter
- Hairpin Cotter pin
- Epoxy Sealant
Step 1: Examine the Greenhouse Drain Outlet
Start by examining the gutter drain opening on the greenhouse. The factory outlet will directly fit standard SCH80 PVC pipe but puts the dependence on the press fit to hold the weight. A soft PVC hose can be used but we like the adapter route because the drain system can easily taken on/off if necessary due to season or cleaning needs.
Step 2: Check the Adapter Fit
Grab the adapter and make sure it fits over the drain downspout and into the PVC pipe.
Step 3: Glue Adapter to PVC Pipe
Attach the adapter to the PVC pipe using the epoxy glue. This pipe will carry the water down and away from the greenhouse foundation. Use a quick set epoxy sealer that works for plastics. We chose JB weld which can be found at most hardware stores. Make sure it says it's for plastics. Wait the required cure time. If orientation is important make sure you mark and align the adapter before bonding sets.
Step 4: Stretch the hairpin cotter pin
It was difficult to find a hairpin cotter pin for the 1.5" diameter downspout. So we utilized a pin meant for 1" diameter and stretched it open a little. The hairpin we used was found on Zoro #G0266795
Step 5: Finished Drain Connection
Once cured, use the hairpin to connect the adapter to the downspout. This simple modification allows easy install and removal of the drainage system for any maintenance or seasonal effects like leaves or ice you might be dealing with in your area.
Final Thoughts
This quick modification is an inexpensive way to improve greenhouse drainage for your Palram Canopia greenhouse system and utilize runoff for a water collection system or to keep water moving away from your structure.
