What Are Drain Cleanouts?
Many things can clog the drains and pipes in your home, like roots, feminine hygiene products, and even food waste. Any material that can make its way down the drain can cause a backup. A plumbing or drain cleanout provides a convenient place to access a building’s drain pipes to clear clogs and debris. Simply put, unclogging your drains is much easier if you have drain cleanout. You simply have to remove a cap on the cleanout so you can get your needed access. Most localities have plumbing codes that require the installation of drain cleanout during construction. To learn more about plumbing cleanout, continue reading.
Parts
A drain cleanout consists of the main body and a threaded cap. The main body is usually the same diameter as the drainpipe where it is installed. The portion of the body where the cap is threaded into and designed to be easily accessible in the event of a blockage is the extension. The cleanout’s threaded cap should be two inches above the ground outside or the level of the floor.
Location
A drain cleanout may be inside or outdoors. If it is placed outside a building, it should have its threaded cap visible within a few feet of the building’s foundation. If it is placed inside a building, it may be inside a wall or floor. Buildings that have a crawlspace or a basement area have easily accessible cleanouts. Usually, cleanouts are positioned in the drain where there is a 90-degree turn. They are positioned in such a way that when you remove its cap, you can easily work on the blockage.
Clearing
When clearing a blockage, you have to use a plumbing auger. This looks like a large power drill and is available for rent at home or plumbing centers. Some augers extend automatically to reach the blockage. You just have to turn on the auger and feed it into the clean-out extension. If you don’t have access to an auger, you can use a garden hose with a high-pressure tip. But if your cleanout is inside your home, don’t use a hose.
If you have issues with your drain or plumbing cleanout, get in touch with a plumber. Contact Kapa Plumbing & Drainage Service at (240) 203-7967 today. I serve property owners in Gaithersburg, MD.
