What a cleanout is
A cleanout is a short vertical or angled pipe that tees into the drain line and ends in a threaded cap or plug. Opening it gives straight access to the main building drain or the lateral running to the street. Plumbers prefer it because a drain machine or camera can go in directly, without pulling a toilet and without dragging a dirty cable through the house.
Many homes have a cleanout outside near the foundation, close to where the sewer line leaves the house, sometimes inside a small box or under a planter. Some older Anaheim homes have only an interior cleanout, one buried under landscaping, or none that is practical to use. A two-way cleanout, which allows access toward the house and toward the street, is common in newer work.
Where to look
Access through a cleanout versus a toilet
Through a cleanout
- Direct path to the main line
- Easier to use larger machines or a jetter
- Camera inspection is straightforward
- Mess stays outside
Through a pulled toilet
- Toilet must be removed and reset with a new seal
- Smaller pipe and tighter bends limit tools
- More work inside the house
- Common when no cleanout is available
Should you add a cleanout?
- IfYou have had more than one main line backupThenAn accessible exterior cleanout is often worth discussing, because the line will likely need attention again.
- IfThe only access is through a toilet or the roof ventThenAsk a plumber about adding one where the line exits the house.
- IfYour cleanout is buried or crackedThenRaising, repairing or capping it properly can prevent future problems and keep debris out.
- IfThe line is planned for repair anywayThenAdding a cleanout during that work is usually simpler than doing it separately.
What to ask
- Where exactly is my cleanout, and does it go toward the street, the house or both?
- Is it in good condition and properly capped?
- Would adding or relocating a cleanout make future cleaning easier?
- Does adding one need a permit? Check with the city for your address.
Common questions
Can I clean my own main line through the cleanout?
Rental machines exist, but main line work involves heavy equipment, sewage exposure and the risk of a stuck cable. Many homeowners leave it to a licensed plumber.
What if I cannot find a cleanout at all?
A plumber can often clear the line by removing a toilet. If backups are recurring, ask about installing an exterior cleanout.
My cleanout cap is missing. Is that a problem?
Yes. An open cleanout can let in dirt, debris and pests and release sewer odor. Have it capped.
General information for Anaheim, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.