Maintaining Healthy Gutters and Tank Water – Many homeowners overlook the important connection between gutters and tank water. By maintaining healthy gutters, you can give your tanks a solid foundation for clean and uncontaminated water. This article provides professional tips on how to keep both your gutters and tanks healthy, ensuring a symbiotic relationship that promotes optimal water quality.
Table of Contents
Tip 1 – Establish a Cleaning Schedule
To stay on top of home maintenance, create a reminder list for regular cleaning cycles, ideally every 6-12
months. When scheduling tank cleaning, ensure it follows gutter cleaning. This way, you can be confident that clean water from your gutters flows into a pristine tank, preventing the collection of debris and bacteria.
Tip 2 – Cover or Disconnect Tank Inlets
When cleaning your gutters or hiring a professional, remember to disconnect your tank or cover its inlet. By doing so, you minimize the risk of flushing any debris or contaminants dislodged during cleaning into your tank. Keep the inlet covered until the first rainfall after cleaning to maintain the cleanliness of your tank.
Tip 3 – Be Aware of Algae Growth
Keep a vigilant eye out for algae growth in your gutters, as it may lead to blooms in your tank. Algae thrive in moist and shaded areas, especially where organic matter accumulates. Regular gutter cleaning helps to remove the debris that can serve as a breeding ground for algae. If you spot algae, consider using tank-friendly anti-algae cleaning products after a gutter clean. However, it’s important to note that algae growth can also indicate a problem with the gutter system, such as poor drainage or improper installation. If you notice persistent algae growth, consult a professional gutter cleaner who can assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions.
Tip 4 – Professional & DIY Gutter Cleaning
While DIY gutter cleaning can be effective, enlisting the services of a professional can provide added expertise and ensure a thorough job. Professional gutter cleaners have the necessary tools, knowledge, and experience to detect and address potential issues. If you still feel like conquering this DIY style here are some great tips to get you cleaning like a professional.
DIY Gutter Cleaning Tips:
- Remove all debris from the gutters, even hidden debris that may cling to the back of the gutter. Hands are more effective than vacuums in detecting and removing hidden debris.
- After clearing the gutters, use a blower and hose to flush them thoroughly (ensuring the tank inlet is covered or disconnected). This will leave your gutters sparkling clean.
- Check downpipes by inserting the hose nozzle and timing the flow for about 2 minutes. If water backs up, it indicates a blockage that requires professional attention.
Tip 5 – Regular Downpipe Maintenance
In addition to gutter cleaning, it’s important to pay attention to your downpipes.
As an experienced gutter cleaning business would notice, downpipes can easily get blocked by all sorts of items and cause massive issues in collecting that essential tank water.
Make sure to follow the outlined downpipe DIY cleaning tip in the above section.
You might be surprised by how long your gutters will stay clean by regularly checking the entrance to your downpipes.
Tip 6 – Maintenance Photos: Visual Records for Better Gutter Maintenance
To enhance your gutter maintenance efforts, consider requesting photos from your gutter cleaner before and after each cleaning session. Visual documentation allows you to keep a track record of the condition of your gutters over time, providing valuable insights that can help you determine the ideal frequency for future cleanings. By regularly reviewing these images, you’ll be able to assess how quickly debris accumulates and make informed decisions about adjusting the cleaning schedule accordingly.
Moreover, maintaining a visual gallery of your gutters’ condition serves a dual purpose. Not only does it assist in monitoring the health of your gutters, but it can also play a crucial role in safeguarding your home insurance coverage. Many homeowners are unaware that insurance policies often become invalid if water damage occurs due to neglected gutter maintenance. By consistently documenting the state of your gutters through photographs, you establish a solid record of proactive maintenance, providing evidence of your efforts to prevent potential water-related incidents. In the unfortunate event of a claim, having a comprehensive gallery can substantiate your diligence and ensure your insurance remains valid. Remember, the adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings true when it comes to gutter maintenance. Embrace the power of visual records and build your own gallery to stay proactive, protect your home, and ensure your gutters remain in optimal condition.
Maintaining healthy gutters and tank water requires a well-designed schedule, regular cleaning, and careful monitoring. By following a routine that includes gutter cleaning, disconnecting or covering tank inlets during the process, and addressing any algae growth or downpipe blockages, you can foster a symbiotic relationship that promotes optimal water quality. Take the necessary steps to protect your gutters and tanks, whether through DIY efforts or by seeking professional assistance, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and harmonious system that supports clean and usable water for your household needs.
By Simone Keck
BIO: I’m Simone, a passionate woman in the trade industry. Alongside my husband, I co-manage a successful Sunshine Coast Gutter Cleaning business ‘Just Gutters’. I enjoy sharing our knowledge and writing about my love for DIY