Rain chains connect to gutters in place of the downpipe. Normally, the rainwater from the roof flows into an enclosed pipe, but with rain chains, the water visibly follows the chain down to the ground or, more often, into a barrel or water feature. As with a downspout, by following this path, the flow of water slows, minimizing soil loss and erosion on the downpour site, and it keeps the water from running freely down the side of your house.