How to use the online timer
Stay beside the terrace downpipe while loosened autumn leaves wash towards the opening, using the six-minute countdown as a limit for this first clearing pass. Keep watching how freely the water moves, and lift away any clumps gathering around the grate rather than leaving the terrace unattended.
As the channel clears, the remaining time shows whether the chosen interval suits the amount of wet leaf litter. The duration can be changed directly on the page: shorten it when the grate is already visible and water is draining, or extend it when several compacted layers still need careful removal. Remaining nearby makes that adjustment easy to judge from the flow.
While watching the drain, avoid filling the wait by staring at the changing figures. Put collected leaves into a garden-waste bag, wipe the small section of terrace beside the outlet, or check the next visible join in the gutter. These brief jobs keep attention on the same area, so a slowing trickle or another clump is noticed promptly.
Common questions
What can make the set time too short for clearing a terrace drain after autumn leaf fall?
Heavy UK rain can press wet leaves into a dense mat around the grate, making the set time too short. Add a little time if water is still pooling and compacted material remains.
What should I do if the terrace drain clears before the set time ends?
Stop the countdown and watch the water flow briefly to confirm that no hidden clump moves back over the opening. Use any spare moment to bag the leaves and leave the outlet visible.
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