When people prepare for fall, they are ready to do all the cleaning of underground gutter drains. Are you ready too? Gather your tools, remove debris on the surface, inspect and clean downspouts, flush with water, check for leaks, inspect the underground drains, and monitor the flow!
As the vibrant colors of autumn adorn the landscape and the leaves begin to leave the trees, you need to prepare your home for the seasonal change. Neglecting your underground gutter drains can lead to problems from water damage to a compromised foundation.
After you read this guide, you will know what to do and will not need to get to the point when there is water on the side of your house to worry about damages.
How To Clean Underground Gutter Drains?
The task is not that simple, but also not the most complicated. You should gather tools and safety gear, remove debris on the surface, inspect and clean downspouts, flush with water, check for leaks, inspect the underground drains, and monitor the flow. Take a look at the detailed steps to become familiar with the process.
1. Gather Your Tools
Begin by assembling all the necessary tools and safety gear. The items listed below should not be optional: they are the key to the success of your underground or outdoor drain cleaning.
- A sturdy ladder to access your gutters safely
- Durable work gloves to protect your hands
- A bucket or heavy-duty trash bag for collecting debris
- A garden trowel or small shovel for scooping out leaves and gunk
- A hose with a high-pressure nozzle attachment for flushing
- Safety goggles to safeguard your eyes
Before climbing the ladder or beginning any work, ensure that your ladder is on a stable surface. Always use proper safety equipment, including gloves and goggles, to protect yourself from potential hazards.
2. Remove Surface Debris
Start by manually removing leaves, twigs, and other surface debris from the top of your gutter system. Use the ladder to access difficult-to-reach areas, working systematically from one end to the other. Hand-picking debris is the first step to solving the problem of a clogged sewer line or a clogged underground gutter drain.
3. Inspect And Clear Downspouts
Check the downspouts for clogs or obstructions. Use your garden trowel or small shovel to clear any debris that may be blocking the flow of water. Ensure the downspouts are securely fastened to the gutters.
4. Flush With Water
Attach a high-pressure nozzle to your hose. Insert the hose into the gutter downspout. Turn on the hose and let the high-pressure water flow through the downspout. Continue this process until the water runs freely and clear, removing any remaining debris and ensuring proper drainage. One more advantage of pressure washing, right?
5. Check For Leaks
While flushing the downspouts, inspect for leaks or cracks that might be present in your gutter system. Note any issues and plan for repairs to maintain the integrity of your gutter system. Leaks are less likely to appear if you have seamless gutters.
6. Inspect The Underground Drains
While cleaning underground gutter drain pipes that are clogged, attention to detail! Locate the point where your gutter downspouts connect to the underground drainage system. Inspect this connection for any clogs, blockages, or damage. Clear any obstructions you find.
7. Monitor The Flow
After cleaning, closely monitor the flow of water through your gutters and downspouts during the next rainfall. Ensure that everything is functioning correctly and that water is flowing away from your home as intended.
8. Schedule Regular Maintenances
Remember to make gutter cleaning a regular part of your maintenance routine, aiming for at least two cleanings a year before fall and/or spring. The same tip goes for fall gutter cleaning, and you can call a professional help if you like.
Don't wait until the first heavy rain to address gutter issues! Take proactive measures now to enjoy a worry-free autumn, and call eHARDHAT’s plumbing team – the answer to all your problems.
