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What is a Sewer Cleanout Inside the House?

A sewer cleanout is an essential component of the home’s plumbing system that provides access to the sewer lateral. The sewer lateral connects the home’s drainage system to the primary sewer line, and it can sometimes get clogged with debris or other obstructions. The cleanout acts as a portal that allows plumbers and homeowners to clean out the pipes quickly and efficiently. Installing a cleanout within the home makes it more convenient and accessible than having to dig up the yard to access the lateral.

Why Are Sewer Cleanouts Important?

Why Are Sewer Cleanouts Important?

Sewer cleanouts serve several crucial purposes:

Provides Access to Clear Clogs

The most common reason plumbers and homeowners need access to the sewer lateral, especially in cases of clogs, is to clear obstructions. Debris such as grease, soap residue, and tree roots can accumulate over time and impede the smooth flow of wastewater. A sewer cleanout, conveniently located in the basement, provides direct access to the pipes, allowing plumbers to easily snake a drain auger through and remove any blockages. This practical solution is far more efficient than resorting to the laborious task of excavating the yard to reach the exterior portion of the lateral. Whether it’s a residential or commercial setting, having a sewer cleanout in basement proves invaluable for swift and effective maintenance of the plumbing system.

Locates Pipe Problems

Cleanouts allow plumbers to diagnostically test the sewer with a camera. If there are suspected pipe problems like cracks, offsets, or root intrusion, the cleanout provides an insertion point to examine the entire lateral with a sewer camera. This helps identify any issues needing repair.

Facilitates Repairs and Maintenance

Having an interior cleanout allows for much simpler lateral repairs if needed. Plumbers can access the pipe and replace sections or use spot repairs for damage like cracks or holes. Cleanouts also aid in sewer lateral maintenance by providing an access point for flushing the line.

Meets Building Codes

Most local building codes require a sewer cleanout to be installed inside the home. This is because an interior cleanout provides easier access than digging in the yard. Installing a cleanout may be mandatory before a home can pass final inspection.

Where Are Interior Cleanouts Located?

The most common place to find a sewer cleanout inside the home is the basement, where the main plumbing stack connects to the sewer lateral. However, cleanouts can also sometimes be located on the first floor or basement bathroom.

Basement Floor or Wall

The basement is where all the drainage pipes from upper floors converge and exit the home. Installing a cleanout here where the pipes connect provides straight access to the entire house plumbing system. Cleanouts may be on the floor next to the stack or a sidewall.

First Floor

If installing a basement cleanout is not possible, plumbers may place one on the first floor. It will usually be in a first floor bathroom or utility room near where lines exit the foundation.

Basement Bathroom

Cleanouts are commonly installed in basement bathrooms. This take advantage of necessary access behind the toilet for ease of installation. The cleanout provides closer access to basement sink and shower drains.

How Do Sewer Cleanouts Work?

Sewer cleanouts consist of a few basic components that provide access while keeping sewer gases from entering the home.

Access Cover

The sewer cleanout access point is covered by a removable plug or cap. This is usually a threaded plastic cap that screws into the cleanout body. Homeowners can easily unscrew the cap by hand when access is needed.

Cleanout Body

A PVC or ABS fixture that installs directly into the sewer drainage line. It has a smooth inner wall to prevent obstructions. The body threads to the access cap on one end and connects to the home’s plumbing on the other.

Backwater Valve

Cleanouts have a backwater valve inside the body. This allows flow through the cleanout into the sewer but prevents sewage from backing up into the cleanout.

When opened, the cleanout provides a direct passage to insert drain cleaning tools. A rubber gasket seals the cap to prevent sewer gas odors when closed.

How Are Sewer Cleanouts Installed?

Proper installation is important for cleanouts to function correctly. Professional plumbers have the tools, knowledge, and experience to ensure proper installation.

Materials Needed

The plumber will need PVC or ABS plastic fittings, pipe cement, a backwater valve, threaded cleanout plug, and connection fittings to tie into the existing plumbing.

Cut Into Sewer Drainage Line

The plumber must cut into the home’s main drainage line at the desired location. This is typically in the basement near where the stack exits.

Install Cleanout Tee Fitting

A tee fitting is installed and cemented into the line. One side of the tee connects to the drainage pipe. The other side faces upward and will attach to the cleanout.

Add Cleanout Body and Backwater Valve

A short length of pipe is cemented into the tee opening. This cleanout body will house the backwater valve and receive the threaded access cap.

Cement Components

All joints must be properly cleaned, primed, and cemented to form an air and water-tight seal. The backwater valve gets inserted and cemented in place.

Attach Access Cap

The final step is threading on the removable access cap. When fully assembled, the cleanout is ready for use.

5 Common Problems with Interior Cleanouts

While a properly installed sewer cleanout should last for decades, issues can develop over time. Here are 5 common cleanout problems homeowners may encounter:

1. Leaks

The rubber gasket inside the cleanout cap may deteriorate, causing the cap seal to leak. This allows sewer gases and odors to escape. Replacing the old cap with a new one typically fixes this.

2. Broken or Stripped Cap

A plastic cleanout cap can become brittle and prone to breaking after years of use. Caps can also be damaged by overtightening or cross-threading. Replacing the cap is an easy solution.

3. Blocked Access

Homeowners may inadvertently block cleanout access by installing flooring, cabinets, or other obstructions over the location. The area around cleanouts should remain accessible.

4. Cracked or Damaged Body

While rare, the cleanout body is subjected to sewage pressures and could eventually crack. This damage necessitates replacing the affected portion of the cleanout.

5. Backwater Valve Failure

A faulty backwater valve defeats the purpose of a cleanout by allowing sewage backflow into the house. A plumber can replace the valve if needed.

Why Hire a Professional Plumber?

Why Hire a Professional Plumber?

While a basic cleanout installation seems straightforward, there are good reasons to hire a professional plumber for the job:

Have the Right Tools

Plumbers have the specialized tools, like sewer camera systems, to properly diagnose and access sewer lines through a cleanout. DIYers often lack the high-powered drain snakes required.

Ensure Correct Positioning

Experienced plumbers have the knowledge to optimally locate cleanouts for easy access. Incorrect positioning can make clearing future clogs much harder.

Prevent Sewage Leaks

Mistakes like misaligned joints and improper cementing can lead to leaks. Plumbers have the skills to install cleanouts correctly to prevent messy failures.

Meet Building Codes

Licensed plumbers are familiar with local building codes covering cleanout types, placement, and installation details to pass inspection.

Provide Warranty

Professional installers often provide a warranty covering defects in parts or labor. This provides homeowners with helpful protection.

For optimal cleanout function and peace of mind, hiring a qualified plumber is advisable.

FAQs

What is the cost to install an interior sewer cleanout?

The typical range is $200 – $350, depending on local rates and complexity. Simple installations in unfinished basements on existing plastic drain lines are cheapest. Adding a bathroom cleanout costs more.

How can I locate my existing cleanout?

Start by checking along basement walls and floor near the main plumbing stack. Seek professional assistance if the cleanout cannot be found. A plumber can use drain cameras to try locating it.

Is it okay to cover a sewer cleanout with carpet or tile?

No, cleanouts should remain accessible and not be obscured by floor coverings. The area around the cleanout should remain free of obstructions. Leave enough space for tools and a service person.

How often should sewer cleanouts be maintained?

Homeowners should check cleanout caps annually for leaks and ensure the access is clear. Have a plumber inspect the cleanout more thoroughly every 3-5 years. Backwater valves wear out and may need periodic replacement.

Can I use a sewer cleanout to install a basement bathroom?

Yes, installing a cleanout tee on the sewer line provides a convenient attachment point for adding a future basement bathroom. The cleanout and bathroom drainage can share the connection to the home’s plumbing stack.

Conclusion

Installing a sewer cleanout inside the home is an important part of any plumbing system. An interior cleanout provides easy access for clearing clogs, performing maintenance, and making repairs. When positioned properly, cleanouts allow plumbers to service the home’s drainage system without costly excavation. Keeping the sewer pipes clear and flowing properly relies heavily on having access through cleanouts. While basement windows may share similarities with regular windows, their unique placement and structural considerations demand specialized tools and skills for ideal installation. Homeowners should recognize that, just like with cleanout repairs, calling a professional plumber is crucial for ensuring proper installation and usage.

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