How to Effectively Clean Gutter Downspouts

Gutter downspouts are an essential part of the gutter system. During the fall and spring gutters and their downspouts can become clogged with dirt, leaves and other debris from Mother Nature. In order to have your gutter system working properly, it’s important to effectively clean the gutter downspouts at least 3-4 times a year. If rainwater cannot flow out of the gutter downspout you could experience water damage to your roof. Here is a quick guide to effectively cleaning your gutter downspouts.

In order to clean the downspout you need to clean the gutter leading to it. Get a ladder and position it against your roof. Make sure that the ladder is stable or have a friend hold it for you. Climb onto the ladder and make your way up to the roof. Locate the gutters that lead to the downspout and user your hands to clear all of the gunk and leaves out of the gutter. This will allow the water to flow properly to the downspout.

Reach into the downspout and clear any debris that has fallen into it. Downspouts that connect to your gutter system tend to be clogged more at the top than the bottom. Don’t be afraid to reach your hand deep into the downspout. A lot of debris can accumulate during the months between cleanings.

Climb down from the ladder and get your garden hose. Climb the ladder with the garden hose in your hands. Be careful when doing this so you do not fall. Put the garden hose into the downspout. Make sure that the hose goes into the downspout about a foot to a foot and a half. Climb back down the ladder and turn the garden hose on. You should see the water from the hose flowing to the bottom of the downspout. This will wash all of the dirt and any remaining debris out of the system.

Once the water has run through the system, turn off the hose. Go to the bottom of the downspout and reach inside. Remove any debris that has not flowed out of the bottom of the downspout so you have a cleaned system. Remove the downspout where it connects to the gutter running down the side of your house if needed. You might need an Allen wrench or a pair of pliers to remove this. Reach into your gutter and pull out remaining debris.

Repeat this method for all of the downspouts on your home. Once the downspouts have all been cleaned you will notice how much better the gutter system works. It is important to keep your gutter system clean so you do not have rainwater build up on your roof. This can cause damage that is very expensive to repair. Remember that your gutters should be cleaned regularly in order to keep them from corroding.

Charles Dovbish is a freelance writer that specializes in DYI and home improvement.

Image Credit: Gutter, Cleaning Downspout, Hose, Bottom Downspout, Dirty Gutters