If your downspout is draining too slowly or not at all, it may be clogged. Clearing a clogged downspout is usually a quick and easy fix that you can do yourself. In this article, we will show you 5 ways to unclog a clogged downspout underground.
Table of Contents
What Is an Underground Downspout?
There are a few ways to unclog a clogged downspout underground. An underground downspout is a pipe that carries rainwater from your gutters to a drain or to the ground. If your downspout is clogged, it can cause water to back up in your gutters and cause damage to your foundation.
How To Unclog an Underground Gutter Drain Pipe
If you have a clogged downspout underground, there are a few ways you can unclog it. If these methods don’t work, you can try using a drain snake or a plumbers’ auger to clear the clog. One way is to use a garden hose to flush out the clog. Another way is to use a plunger to try to dislodge the clog.
Method #1: Using a Garden Hose
If you have a garden hose and an underground gutter drain pipe that is clogged, you can try using the garden hose to unclog it. If the water is still not flowing through the pipe, you may need to call a plumber. If the water is not running through the hose, you may need to move the hose around to try and get the water to flow through the pipe. Next, attach the garden hose to a faucet and turn the water on to the hose. Put the hose into the underground gutter drain pipe and let the water run through the hose for a few minutes. First, make sure that the water is turned off to the underground gutter drain pipe.
Method #2: Using a Plumber’s Snake
The snake is then turned to break up the clog. If you have an underground gutter drain pipe that is clogged, one way to unclog it is by using a plumber’s snake. This is a long, flexible rod that is inserted into the drain pipe.
Method #3: Using a Hydro Jet
Method #3: Using a Hydro Jet
A hydro jet is a high-pressure water hose that can be used to blast through clogs. If you have a clogged underground gutter drain pipe, you may be able to use a hydro jet to clear it.
Aim the hydro jet at the clog and let the water pressure do the work. Once you have the hydro jet, attach it to a water hose and turn on the water. To use a hydro jet, you’ll need to rent or purchase one from a hardware store or home improvement center.
Aim the hose at the clog and let the water pressure do the work. Attach the garden hose to a faucet and turn on the water. If you don’t have a hydro jet, you can also try using a garden hose to clear the clog.
Method #4: Using a Flush Bag
Method #4: Using a Flush Bag
A flush bag is a bag filled with water that you attach to the end of a garden hose. If you have a clogged underground gutter drain pipe, you can use a flush bag to unclog it. When you turn on the water, the pressure will force the water into the clogged pipe and clear it out.
Method #5: Using a Milling Machine
First, you’ll need to remove the drain cover and then mill a hole in the clog. If you have a milling machine, you can use it to unclog your underground gutter drain pipe. Finally, flush the drain pipe with a hose to remove any debris. Be sure to mill the hole slightly larger than the diameter of the drain pipe. Next, insert a drain snake into the hole and twist it clockwise to break up the clog.
Signs Your Underground Gutter Drain Pipe Has a Clog
Here are five signs that your underground gutter drain pipe has a clog: A clogged drain pipe can cause water to back up into your gutters and cause damage to your home. If you have an underground gutter drain pipe, it’s important to know the signs that it has a clog.
1 – Rainwater Isn’t Draining
This can happen for a few reasons, but one possibility is that your underground gutter drain pipe is clogged. One sign is if rainwater isn’t draining properly. If you have a clogged downspout underground, there are a few signs to look for.
Another sign that your underground gutter drain pipe may be clogged is if you see water pooling around your downspout. This is especially likely if the pooling water is coming from the direction of your underground gutter drain pipe.
If neither of these options work, you may need to call a professional to help clear the clog. If you suspect that your underground gutter drain pipe is clogged, there are a few things you can do to try and unclog it. One option is to use a plumbers snake to try and clear the clog. Another option is to use a garden hose to flush out the clog.
2 – Gutters Are Overflowing
This is usually caused by a blockage in the downspout itself, which prevents water from draining properly. One of the most obvious signs is if your gutters are overflowing. If you notice that your gutters are overflowing, it’s important to check the downspout for a blockage. If you have a clogged downspout, there are a few signs to look for that will indicate that your underground gutter drain pipe has a clog.
This can be a serious problem, as it can lead to foundation damage. Another sign that your underground gutter drain pipe has a clog is if you notice water pooling around your foundation. If you see water pooling around your foundation, it’s important to check your gutters to see if they’re the source of the problem.
If you have a clogged downspout, there are a few things you can do to try and clear the blockage. If neither of these options work, you may need to call a professional to clear the blockage. One option is to use a plunger to try and clear the blockage. Another option is to use a drain snake to try and clear the blockage.
3 – Leaking Water at the Seams
If you have an underground gutter drain pipe, you may be wondering if it is clogged. Here are five signs that your underground gutter drain pipe has a clog:
1. Water is leaking from the seams of the pipe.
2. Water is pooling around the base of the downspout.
3. The downspout is making a gurgling sound when water is draining from it.
4. Water is draining slowly from the downspout.
5. The downspout is completely blocked and water is not draining from it at all.
A clogged pipe can cause serious damage to your home if it is not fixed. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to clear the clog from your underground gutter drain pipe as soon as possible.
4 – Water Stains or Pools on the Ground
If you see water stains or pools of water on the ground, it’s important to clear the clog as soon as possible. A clogged underground gutter drain pipe can cause water to back up and overflow out of your gutters, and can also lead to foundation problems. If you have water stains or pools of water on the ground around your home, it’s a sign that your underground gutter drain pipe has a clog.
5 – Water Damages in the Basement
If you have water damage in your basement, it’s a good idea to check your underground gutter drain pipe for a clog. Here are five signs that your pipe may be clogged:
1. Water backs up into your gutters: This is the most obvious sign that your underground drain pipe is clogged. If water is backing up into your gutters, it means that the pipe is blocked and needs to be cleared.
2. Water leaks from your gutters: If you notice water leaking from your gutters, it’s a good indication that your underground drain pipe is clogged.
3. Your gutters overflow: If your gutters overflow, it’s a sure sign that your underground drain pipe is clogged.
4. Your downspouts are clogged: If your downspouts are clogged, it’s a good indication that your underground drain pipe is also clogged.
5. You have water damage in your basement: If you have water damage in your basement, it’s a good idea to check your underground gutter drain pipe for a clog.
How Do Underground Downspouts Get Clogged
If you have a clogged downspout underground, there are a few ways you can unclog it. Another way is to use a plumber’s snake to try and clear the clog. One way is to use a garden hose to try and flush the clog out. If you have a lot of leaves and debris around your downspout, you may need to clear that away first before you can try to unclog the downspout.
Pipe Damage
Pipe damage is one of the leading causes of clogged underground downspouts. When water seeps into the ground around your home, it can cause the pipes to break down and collapse. This can lead to a blockage in your downspouts, which can cause water to back up and overflow.
Pipe Screws
They are small, metal screws that are used to secure pipes together. Over time, these screws can become loose and fall out, allowing debris and dirt to enter the pipe and clog it. Pipe screws are one of the most common ways that underground downspouts get clogged.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are the primary reason for a clogged underground downspout. If they happen to come into contact with your underground downspout, they can quickly cause a blockage. As trees grow, their roots spread out underground in search of water.
To prevent tree roots from clogging your underground downspout, you should have a professional tree service company regularly trim back any tree roots that are growing near the downspout. You should also make sure that your downspout is properly installed and maintained so that it is not an easy target for tree roots.
Pipe Installing Angle
This is because when the pipe is installed at an angle, water can pool in the pipe and then freeze, causing a blockage. Pipe installing angle is one of the main ways that underground downspouts get clogged.
How To Prevent Future Clogging
One of the most common causes of clogged downspouts is leaves and other debris that fall from trees and accumulate in the gutter system. While it’s important to regularly clean your gutters to prevent clogs, there are a few other things you can do to help prevent future clogs.
Pros and Cons of Having Underground Downspouts
These include the potential for clogs, the need for regular maintenance, and the possibility of water seepage into your basement or crawl space. There are many benefits to having an underground downspout, including preventing water damage to your foundation, reducing the risk of flooding, and protecting your landscaping. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before installing an underground downspout.
Pros of Having Underground Downspouts
This can lead to water damage to your home as well as create a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. One is that they are much less likely to become blocked with debris. Underground downspouts are also less visible, which can be a plus if you are concerned about the aesthetics of your home. When leaves and other organic matter fall from trees, they often land in gutters and downspouts, causing them to become clogged. There are a few benefits to having underground downspouts as opposed to the typical above ground downspouts.
Cons of Having Underground Downspouts
Another is that if the pipe leaks, the water can seep into the ground and cause problems with the foundation of your home. Finally, if the pipe freezes, it can burst and cause water damage. There are a few cons to having underground downspouts. One is that if there is a blockage in the pipe, it can be difficult to clear.
How Are Underground Downspouts Installed
If you have a clogged downspout underground, there are a few ways you can unclog it. One way is to use a garden hose to flush the clog out. Another way is to use a plunger to try to dislodge the clog. If these methods don’t work, you may need to call a professional to clear the clog.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the 5 ways to unclog a clogged downspout underground?
2. What are the benefits of unclogging a downspout?
3. How do I know if my downspout is clogged?
4. What are the consequences of not unclogging a downspout?
5. How do I prevent my downspout from clogging in the future?
1. The 5 ways to unclog a clogged downspout underground are:
-Remove the debris by hand
-Use a garden hose to flush out the debris
-Use a plumbers snake to clear the blockage
-Use a pressure washer to blast the debris out
-Call a professional to clear the blockage
2. The benefits of unclogging a downspout are:
-Prevent water damage to your home
-Prevent foundation problems
-Prevent mosquito breeding
-Prevent flooding
3. You can tell if your downspout is clogged if:
-Water is overflowing from the top of the downspout
-There is a pool of water around the base of the downspout
-The downspout is making gurgling noises
4. The consequences of not unclogging a downspout are:
-Water damage to your home
-Foundation problems
-Mosquito breeding
-Flooding
5. You can prevent your downspout from clogging in the future by:
-Keeping the area around the downspout clean and free of debris
-Trimming back any trees or shrubs that are close to the downspout
-Installing a gutter guard to keep debris out
Final thoughts
To conclude, here are five ways to unclog a clogged downspout underground: 1) Use a garden hose to flush out the clog. 2) Use a plumber’s snake to clear the clog. 3) Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the clog. 4) Use a power washer to blast the clog away. 5) Hire a professional to clear the clog.
FAQs
How do you unclog a buried downspout? ›
- Cable rodding. Rodding can go by several other names like rootering, snaking, and augering. ...
- Blow bag. A blow bag (also known as a drain bladder) uses water pressure to unclog drains. ...
- Hydro jetting. ...
- Picote Milling Machine. ...
- Professional drain cleaning.
If you think a rainwater pipe is blocked, pour some water into the top of the pipe to see how it flows. If you want to tackle the blockage yourself, you can use a drain rod or plumber's auger – also known as a plumber's snake.
How deep are downspout drains buried? ›I usually dig a trench about 12 to 14 inches deep for downspout drain lines. If the lot is fairly flat, the pipes will get deeper the farther they extend, as you should create 1/8 inch of fall for every foot the pipes run.
How do you unblock a downpipe from the ground? ›Simply either find a stiff piece of wire around the house, or buy a plumbing snake, and insert it into the blocked downpipe as far as it can go. To unblock a downpipe using this method you simply: Insert the wire as far as it can go down into the downpipe. Start rotating the wire and moving it around.
What do you use for buried downspouts? ›The Best Pipe to Use for Downspout Drain
We've looked at some of the best pipe options for downspout drainages and prepared this information to help you make an informed decision on what pipe to use for the downspout drain. PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride pipes, is the best option for underground water drainage.
- Your Gutters are Overflowing. If your downspout is clogged, one of the first things you may notice is that your gutters will begin filling with water. ...
- No Water is Exiting the Downspout. ...
- There's Water Damage in the Basement. ...
- Water is Leaking From the Seams.
Experts agree: Drano Max Gel is the best overall drain cleaner because it works quickly to get rid of tough clogs. This reliable and effective cleaner is a thick gel that goes deep in sinks, pipes, and drains to reach the source of the clog and completely dissolve it.
What is the best drain unblocker for outside drains? ›Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide, is another chemical that can help with drain cleaning and drain unblocking in any kitchen or bathroom and even in outside drains.
Is burying downspouts a good idea? ›When they are not angled properly, water can flow back to the base of your home, causing significant damage to your home's foundation. Instead of attaching a tail to your downspouts, however, you should consider burying them.
Are buried downspouts good or bad? ›Buried downspouts are the best drainage solution that can prevent damage to basements or foundations caused by flooding in the yard. However, if your gutters are installed incorrectly, you could be back to square one with your drainage issues.
Where do buried downspouts go? ›
Gutter downspouts may either be installed above ground or below ground. Therefore, as mentioned, if your downspouts are buried underground, it is possible that it connects directly to the sewer system located near the front of your property or diverts somewhere else in your lawn, further away from your home.
Can you clear a blocked downpipe? ›Remove the downpipe and check for blockages – blockages usually occur in the bottom of the downpipe. While the downpipe is detached check the drain for blockages and scoop out any debris. Flush the drain with clean water to check it is free flowing. Once the blockage is removed, you can reinstall the downpipe.
How do you unblock a downpipe without a ladder? ›A lot of blockages can be sucked out with a gutter vac on full power. Just make sure you get the end well positioned in the top of the down pipe. That is of course if you have a vac. Assuming the blockage is at the top, drain snake up from the bottom and push it out.
How do you check if a down pipe is blocked? ›How do you know if your downpipe is blocked? It may be a sign that's your downpipe is blocked if your gutters are overflowing or if there is very little rain water coming through the downpipe. You may even see a wet or damp wall which is caused by the blockage.
What is the thing under a downspout called? ›The splash block is a device manufactured from concrete or plastic that works to channel water away from your foundation. The splash block is typically rectangular and has a close-ended side positioned underneath your downspout.
What are buried downspouts called? ›Downspout Drain. Underground Downspout Drain being installed. More commonly known as an “underground drain” because these drains are installed underground when the home is built. These drains direct the water underground and usually lead to the street or the sewer.
What is the bottom of a downspout called? ›The elbow is a bent piece of pipe situated on the end of the downspout to channel water away from your home.
How much does it cost to unclog an underground gutter drain? ›Plumbers cost $75 to $550 to unclog a drain, depending on the hourly rates, accessibility, severity, and cause of blockage. Unclogging severe blockage is $45 to $150 per hour plus parts. Most plumbers offer flat rates on basic drain cleaning. Get free estimates from plumbers near you.
How do you tell if a drain pipe is broken underground? ›The sewer line is the underground pipe that carries all your wastewater from the home to the sewer system. Four of the most common signs of a broken sewer line include multiple slow drains, foul smells inside the house, mold or mildew in the basement, and an increased presence of pests.
How far should you bury downspouts from the house? ›Buried downspouts should run at least 20 feet away from the house so the water does not discharge anywhere close to the foundation. Here's an example of what happens when you don't discharge your gutters far enough away.
Can you snake an outdoor drain? ›
Property owners can try to clear out a clogged outside drainage pipe by using a hydro-jet or drain snake to effectively clear the stubborn built-up debris or other clog causes.
Why is water not going down my downspout? ›If you see that water is not flowing out of your downspout in a storm, you probably have a clog in it. Check for the cage, a wire mesh material between the gutter and downspout that can get filled with debris or even damaged.
What can I put down an outside drain to unblock it? ›You'll need boiling water, a cup, bicarbonate of soda and some vinegar. Take the drain cover off and pour the boiling water down the drain. Add a cup of bicarb followed by a cup of vinegar, it should begin to fizz and bubble up. Replace the drain cover and repeat every couple of hours until the blockage is cleared.
How far down can a drain snake go? ›Although you can find consumer models that reach 50 feet. If you cannot reach the clog with a 25-foot snake, you may want to hold off and call a plumber.
What is the rule of thumb for downspouts? ›How Many Downspouts Do I Need? A general rule of thumb is one downspout per 20 feet of guttering, but more may be necessary depending on the local weather, the size of the drainage area and the design of the gutter system.
What are underground downspouts called? ›Downspout Drain. Underground Downspout Drain being installed. More commonly known as an “underground drain” because these drains are installed underground when the home is built. These drains direct the water underground and usually lead to the street or the sewer.
Where should downspouts drain to? ›The pit should be at least 10 feet away from the foundation wall. The bottom of the drainage pit should be above the groundwater level. You need to adjust the dimensions of the pit according to the volume of water that usually exits from the downspouts.
Are underground downspouts worth it? ›Underground downspouts will provide you with all of the benefits of a traditional downspout without the need to commit to one above ground. Underground downspouts also pair exceptionally well with other waterproofing solutions.
What is installed at the bottom of a downspout? ›Gutter extensions, also known as downspout extensions, are an attachment that connects to the bottom of your downspouts to push water further away from your property. This could help add extra protection to your home to ensure the water that drains from your downspouts does not seep into your property.