I found the idea of using a stainless steel filter excellent, but I implemented it differently.

Having already purchased the stainless steel mesh, I needed to find a use for it.

So I developed an inlet filter. This pre-filters the water drawn from the rain barrel for refilling.

The mesh is mounted in one piece between the two walls.

I sealed the opening with hot glue to prevent unfiltered water from bypassing the filter.

Here is the stainless steel mesh:

https://www.amazon.de/dp/B08YJWPQN3?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title