How to Unclog a Downspout

Take Proper Precautions

Never unclog a downspout without first telling someone what you're doing. If possible, have a helper keep your ladder steady. You may also need a helper to hand you supplies.

You should also wait to climb up to your gutters until the ground has dried following a rainstorm. This can prevent flips and falls!

Finally, wear gloves and eye protection to prevent injuries caused by sharp or contaminated debris.

Remove the Downspout's Extension

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The purpose of removing the extension is to expose the bottom opening. With some gutter designs, it's necessary to remove a screw in order to pry off the extension. This is more likely if your downspout connects to an underground drain.

Clean the Downspout's Opening

Reach into the downspout using your garden trowel to dig out any reachable debris, twigs, or leaves that could be causing the clog. Next, use your hose to try to dislodge any remaining debris from your downspout extension. The easiest way to do this is to spray water up into the gutter near the opening. If you've successfully cleared the clog, you should notice water flowing freely from the bottom.

If water isn't flowing freely, this means that the clog is still in place. The next step involves tackling the issue from the top.

Flush Water From the Top of the Downspout

After unsuccessfully trying to tackle the clog by clearing the downspout opening, the next step is to climb up to get a better look at the issue. Once you're at the top of the ladder, ask your helper to provide you with the hose.

When climbing a ladder to reach a high roof, one trick is to tie a rope around the ladder. This will help you to bring the ladder up with you as you ascend the steps if the height is simply too extreme for you to be handed the hose from someone down below.

With the hose in place, select the most powerful spray setting. The point behind this is that the force of the spray will be able to push out the debris that is causing your clog. Next, put the sprayer directly into the opening of the downspout.

You'll know that you've succeeded if you see debris-filled water flowing out the bottom. Watch until water begins to run clear to confirm that the clog is gone.

Tap the Sides of the Downspout

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While most clogs will loosen with the initial force of a powerful spray, some clogs require a little finessing. As you make your way down the ladder, use your fist to knock on the side of the downspout along the way. This may help to loosen debris enough to make the sprayer more effective.

After knocking along the entire length of the downspout, climb back up to try spraying into the top of the downspout opening with the sprayer again. You can try this method several times if the clog is stubborn.

Use a Handheld Auger

If the spray method isn't powerful enough to force out a clog, pivot to the auger method. If you've never used an auger before, the process can be intimidating. Be sure to read all instructions and safety information included with your auger. A 25-foot handheld drum auger is considered the best choice for the job.

Augurs are good for removing clogs from downspouts because they are able to work up or down in the downspout. Most can also move easily through downspout elbows to break down clogs consisting of leaves and yard debris.

To use your auger, turn the drum clockwise after opening it. You will then need to pull back the cable once it goes all the way through the spout. Expect to do this several times before seeing results if you have an especially stubborn clog.

You can test if the auger worked by inserting your garden hose into the top opening of the downspout to see if the water flows through.