Most homeowners don’t think about their downspouts until they become clogged and cause water to backup and spill out onto the ground around the foundation of their homes. At that point it’s time to snake the downspout drain to clear the clog and restore proper drainage.
If your downspout is clogged you’ll likely see water spilling out from the joint where the downspout meets the gutter. In some cases the water will overflow from the gutter itself. Either way the water can pool around the foundation of your home and potentially cause water damage.
To clear a clogged downspout you’ll need a drain snake. A drain snake is a long flexible piece of equipment with a spiral-shaped cutting head that’s used to remove clogs from drains. You can rent a drain snake from a hardware store or home improvement center.
Before you begin make sure to put on gloves and eye protection. Then insert the drain snake into the downspout until you feel resistance. Once you feel the resistance start turning the drain snake clockwise. As you turn the drain snake it will cut through the clog and allow water to start flowing through the downspout again.
Continue turning the drain snake until you’ve broken through the clog and the water is flowing freely. Then remove the drain snake from the downspout and flush it out with water. You may need to snake the downspout a few times to completely remove the clog.
If your downspout is still clogged aftersnaking it you may need to disassemble the downspout and clear the clog from the inside. To do this first remove the downspout from the gutter. Then use a wrench to loosen the coupling that connects the downspout to the elbow. Once the coupling is loose you should be able to pull the downspout apart.
Inspect the downspout for any blockages and remove them if present. You may find that the clog is located in the elbow of the downspout. If so use a drain snake or pliers to remove the clog. Once you’ve cleared the clog reassemble the downspout and attach it to the gutter.
If you have a clogged downspout don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Use a drain snake to clear the clog and restore proper drainage.
What is the best way to snake a downspout drain?
The best way to snake a downspout drain is to use a power drill with a spiral auger attachment.
Where do you insert the snake into the downspout drain?
You insert the snake into the downspout drain at the cleanout plug which is usually located near the ground.
How do you feed the snake into the drain?
You feed the snake into the drain by turning the handle on the power drill which will cause the spiral auger to rotate and push the snake through the drain.
What do you do if the snake gets stuck in the drain?
If the snake gets stuck in the drain you can try to dislodge it by turning the power drill off and on again or by using a plunger.
How do you know when the drain is clear?
When the drain is clear the water will start to flow freely down the downspout.
What are some signs that there is a clog in the downspout drain?
Some signs that there is a clog in the downspout drain are water backup gurgling sounds and slow drains.
What are some things that can cause a clog in a downspout drain?
Some things that can cause a clog in a downspout drain are leaves twigs and debris.
How often should you snake the downspout drain?
You should snake the downspout drain every few months to prevent clogs.
What happens if you don’t snake the downspout drain?
If you don’t snake the downspout drain the clog will get worse and eventually cause water to backup and flood your home.
How can you prevent clogs in the downspout drain?
You can prevent clogs in the downspout drain by regularly cleaning the gutters and downspouts.
What is the best way to clean gutters and downspouts?
The best way to clean gutters and downspouts is to use a power washer.
How often should you clean gutters and downspouts?
You should clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year.
What happens if you don’t clean gutters and downspouts?
If you don’t clean gutters and downspouts the debris will build up and eventually cause a clog in the downspout drain.
What are some things you can do to prevent debris from building up in gutters and downspouts?
Some things you can do to prevent debris from building up in gutters and downspouts are to regularly trim trees and bushes near the house and to install gutter guards.
What are gutter guards?
Gutter guards are devices that cover the gutters and prevent leaves and debris from entering.
