Clean Out Gutters Like The Pros With An Essential Tool

For many homeowners, cleaning out gutters is a daunting task, especially if you aren't fond of heights. At the end of the day, though, it is essential home maintenance that should be performed at least twice a year. However, you may still find yourself putting off this chore to avoid dealing with buckets of muck, dragging out the ladder, and more. If that's the case, gutter vacuums may be the key to making your life easier. 

You might've seen a gutter vacuum before if you've watched professionals at work. This neat tool features a long arm with powerful suction that allows you to work from the ground, removing the need for a ladder. While some homeowners use pressure washers for this same purpose, they can damage your gutters. A gutter vacuum, however, allows you to thoroughly and efficiently clean your gutters without that same risk. 

Because you're eliminating the height factor, a vacuum is often safer and more convenient than traditional methods. In addition, these tools make it easier to access difficult-to-reach gutters, and disposing of debris is much simpler. Rather than scooping muck into a bucket, you only need to empty the vacuum's container. Many gutter vacuums are also made to be lightweight so they're relatively easy for the average person to handle. 

Although gutter vacuums have a lot of benefits for homeowners, they can be very expensive. Since many are designed for professional use, they can cost thousands of dollars. However, you can look for gutter vacuums designed for residential use like GutterProVac's Cyclone 2400W stainless steel 13-gallon version, although the machine itself still costs $1,270. Adding on a pole will cost an additional $449 to $979, depending on its length and whether you select aluminum or carbon. 

For some, the cost of a gutter vacuum is still well worth the convenience. One review stated, "No more climbing up and down the ladder struggling with leaves in the gutters," while another similarly noted that the vacuum "does a good job of getting the stuff out of my gutters. No more struggle with ladders and scoops and mess." 

Still, the gutter vacuum may be cost-prohibitive for many. Luckily, you can purchase products that work similarly to gutter vacuums without the hefty price tag. For example, another tool that allows you to clean gutters without climbing is a kit that includes an 11-foot plastic extension for your leaf blower. You can also use a simple tool like a paint roller to make cleaning your gutters a breeze, you'll just need to attach a pole. But if you have the cash to spare, investing in a gutter vacuum may save you headaches for years to come.