Here's A No-Tool Step You May Be Missing When Cleaning Your Gutters

Of all home maintenance tasks, cleaning out clogged gutters is one of the chores many homeowners dread the most. Although the tiring act of getting up on a ladder to remove gunk may tempt you to use a tool to make removing debris from the gutter easier, you're missing out on a no-tool step that helps remove stubborn grime thoroughly: flushing your gutters out with hot water. Peter Hansen, co-owner and managing member for Sparrow Estate Management, shared his thoughts on this solution while speaking exclusively to House Digest.

"Flushing gutters with hot water can be somewhat effective, but it's not a complete solution," Hansen explained. "Hot water can help break down certain types of buildup, such as mold, grime, and even ice in colder months but it won't be enough to remove solid debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt that often accumulate in gutters." Solid debris that the hot water can't remove will eventually build up and cause blockage. This is why a hot water flush should be used in conjunction with manual removal when cleaning gutters. Still, the no-tool step is worth adding to your gutter cleaning routine if you are sure you can pull it off safely.

If you plan to start flushing your gutters out with water, use hot water each time. Cold water will not produce the same results. "Hot water is more effective than cold water for cleaning gutters because it can dissolve organic buildup and break down sticky substances like pollen, sap, and bird droppings," Hansen explained while speaking exclusively to House Digest. It is especially important to opt for hot water when flushing your gutters during the winter months because the liquid will melt ice blockages that interfere with drainage. Hansen stressed that cold water is ineffective at tackling gutters clogged during winter. "Cold water, on the other hand, doesn't have the same ability to break down grime or dislodge stuck-on residue, meaning it may not be as effective when dealing with clogged or dirty gutters," he shared. "However, while hot water can be helpful, it's still not a substitute for proper debris removal."

If you plan to use this gutter cleaning hack yourself rather than having a professional clean them out, you will need to take a few safety precautions. According to Hansen, you should first remove large debris with your hand or a tool. You can clear blockages with a plumber's snake or a pressure washer. Once everything is cleared out, use a hose with a high-pressure attachment to flush dirt out from your gutters, starting at the section that is farthest from the downspout. "While this method can work for minor maintenance, it's often safer and more effective to call a professional," Hansen advised.

Using hot water to flush your gutters has its pros and cons, so take a moment to evaluate them before deciding whether this method is right for you. While speaking exclusively to House Digest, Hansen shared the greatest advantage of this gutter cleaning and maintenance hack. "The biggest benefit is that hot water can help dissolve grime, mold, and ice, making it easier to flush out stubborn debris," he explained. The expert added that this method also does a great job of clearing out remaining grime after a large clog is removed.

As for the cons of flushing your gutters with hot water, this step unfortunately still requires you to remove solid material by hand or with tools. Since this method does not replace scoopers or pressure washers, it adds yet another step to your cleaning routine. It is also dangerous if you are not extremely cautious since handling hot water while standing on a ladder leaves you at risk of burning yourself. This is why you should evaluate whether this solution is right for you. If you are not confident that you can pull it off safely, don't be afraid to leave the gutter cleaning to a professional.