review – Cleaning gutters is like going to the dentist: no one likes it, but it’s a must-do. Gutter Sense Gutter Cleaning Tools can help you provide a solution that streamlines your process. this is very simple. It’s clever. Did I mention cheap? Let’s get to work. to the review!
What is it?
The Gutter Sense Gutter Cleaning Tool is an attachment that you screw onto a pole to scoop things out of your gutters. Rod not included.
What’s in the box?
You get the Gutter Sense attachment and drawcord pre-assembled for immediate use. You’ll also get a replacement monofilament cable for extra length.
Design and Features
The design of Gutter Sense is very simple. The “pliers” are 10 inches long and have a curved paddle 2.5 inches wide at each end. They are spring loaded to stay in the open position until closed. You also get a plastic ring to keep them closed when not in use.
There is a monofilament cable that runs from the bottom of the unit through the paddle, connecting the two right above the paddle. Closed here for reference.
The rope is wrapped around the monofilament cable at the bottom of the device. The Gutter Sense comes with an 11″ cord pre-installed and ready to go. You can swap it out if you need a longer length for a longer rod.
The base also includes a wing nut/bolt that allows you to adjust the angle of the clamp if needed. Loosen it to change the angle, and tighten it to lock it.
You can screw the unit onto any standard threaded rod. You can use a broom handle or a retractable pole. I am using my 6ft retractable painting pole for this test.
Put it all together and you’re good to go. You will insert the pliers into the gutter in the “open” position…
…then just pull the cord to close the pliers and grab the thing.
The build is plastic and super lightweight with only a few moving parts. However, it is lightweight and used to remove loose material. It was not built for heavy digging in muddy sediments. Gutter Sense recommends attaching a wire to your pole first, then running it through the gutter to loosen those things (if any).
It should also be noted that the GutterSense is designed for flat bottom “K” gutters with at least 2.5 inches wide at the bottom so that the paddles can enter them. It doesn’t take everything out of the circular gutter.
Performance
Last fall, I remembered that I needed to clear the gutters about 12 hours before a major storm was expected. I use a hockey stick and in some cases a duck hockey stick tied to a pole.
It’s a mess. My wife was amused. I’m not. I wish I had this at that time in my life.
The operation of Gutter Sense is very simple, but it does take a few minutes of practice. You may need to go around some support rods in the gutters and take a little time to get used to positioning the pliers properly. Fortunately, the lightweight unit is easy to maneuver, and the clip responds with just a flick of a pull.
However, once you lower the angle, you can feel it dropping into the gutter and grabbing things. A bit of a tug…
Look! I found something that I thought I had cleaned up in the fall cleaning!
It’s really simple to operate. GutterSense recommends putting down a tarp to collect what you’re pulling out. Those curved paddles do a great job of grabbing something so you can get it where you want it to go. Note the horror look on my face in this photo. Pooh.
As I mentioned above, using the Gutter Sense gutter cleaning tool does take some practice to get the hang of it. I also found that when I was fishing in the gutters, the GutterSense tended to come loose when I tapped on the metal rod. A plastic or wooden pole might get more grip (or maybe a bit of tape on the threads).
The lightweight design is great for leaves and twigs (even the occasional tennis ball), but it won’t let the affected material move. You need to relax these first. I hope to see a stronger version in the future. I think a little extra beef will do most of the gutters clean easily.
I should also note that the 11″ cord that came with the unit is for the gutters on the first floor. Second floor gutters require longer poles and ropes. Or a ladder, if you’re especially careful. I will buy a longer pole and rope next season.
what do I like
- light
- simple design
- Easy to use with a little practice
Areas for improvement
- Builds may be more robust for affected materials
final thoughts
Gutter Sense Rain Gutter Cleaner is a simple, smart and effective solution to common problems. It is lightweight, easy to operate, and has a minimal learning curve. You can get one for under $30! I’m a fan and I’m looking forward to finishing it up next season. is a goalkeeper.
price: $28.95
where to buy: GutterSense.com and Amazon
source: This product sample is provided by gutter feeling.
