Well I've done quite a few jobs now but not the mix I was after. Just to recap, I purchased a Gutter Keeper vacuum
http://www.upkeeper.com/gutterkeeper.html a while back as I could see a need for a good system but none were available over here and before someone points out the Omnivac, it hasn't got the suction of this machine and it's hoses are quite small and therefore easy to block.
The Gutter Keeper has got a 5hp Honda motor which gives a 2000 cfm of airflow. The tubing is clear 3 inch so you can see what's going on at the business end.
Several of the joibs I've done had plants and grass growing out of the gutter as they hadn't been cleaned for many years. This was not a problem on most but some of the roof tiles had too much of an overhang into the gutter. The crevice tool could get into these but the growth was held in by the tiles. I had to resort to a pointed implement attached to my gooseneck to free it beforehand. I spoke to Reuben (Ionics. They are now selling these machines in the UK ) about this and I believe they are going to manufacture several different tools to attach to a pole. Obviously these jobs are going to be much easier next time around. I've done several demo's to clients and they've been very pleased with the results.
I also purchased, from Maplins, a remote wireless camera
http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=98282&criteria=wireless%20camera&doy=27m5and handheld screen
http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=99609&C=Maplin&U=SearchTop&T=CAMERAS&doy=27m5to view the gutters before and after, this also impressed my customers as they could see the results. My ulterior motive was to check the gutters for blockages and to concentrate the cleaning in those areas
I've managed so far to clean up to three floors. I did buy some 2 1/2 inch tubing to go higher but it needs some sort of support which I've not done as yet. I'll most probably use a carbon carp pole to attach it to.
I've spoken to the manufacturers about possible mods to make the footprint of the machine smaller to fit into existing vans alongside tanks etc. and I think this will be available soon. I bought a trailer to house mine but it's just easier for me that way.
The litter pick up feature is also a good tool as I cleared my lawn of rotting embedded leaves very easily.
Altogether I'm very impressed with this machine and next year I'm going to advertise it heavily concentrating on the domestic market as my commercial customers have already signed up to it.
Hopefully you can see some pics below!
No, that's not me...I've got hair!
