How to Locate Your Sewer Cleanout: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners
Located in a crucial position, the sewer cleanout is essential for maintaining the health and functionality of your home's plumbing system. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process to find your sewer cleanout, whether it's located indoors or outdoors. Understanding where your cleanout is can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
Introduction to Sewer Cleanouts
A sewer cleanout is a pipe that allows access to the waste line for cleaning purposes. It is typically located near the main line connection between your home and the city's sewer system or a septic tank. Knowing where your cleanout is can be invaluable for maintaining your plumbing system or addressing potential issues.
How to Find Your Sewer Cleanout
Option 1: Using Home Plots and Plans
Check your home's plot plans: If you have received a copy of the plot plans as part of your home purchase, these will show the location of the sewer cleanout. Contact your local government's planning or county assessor department if you do not have a copy. Government websites may also offer access to these plans. Consult with local contractors and developers: They may have access to the plot plans or have come across the sewer cleanout during previous work. If you have hired contractors or developers recently, ask them if they saw the cleanout. Contact a surveyor or engineer: These professionals often have access to plot plans and may be able to help you locate the sewer cleanout. Reach out to title and real estate companies: These firms often have records of plot plans and may have sent someone to inspect your home. They can provide you with the necessary information.Option 2: Outdoor Searches
Check near the septic tank: If your home is connected to a septic tank, the cleanout will be close to the plumbing leading from your home to the tank. Start your search by looking for the ventilation pipes. Follow the main sewer line in the street: If your home connects to the city's sewer system, look toward the main sewer line in the street and then search back toward your home. The cleanout may be labeled or marked. Identify a white or black cap: A cleanout is usually marked by a white or black cap over a pipe. This cap is typically 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and can be part of the main sewer line or a vertical cleanout pipe. Look for a pipe with a square-shaped button or hole on top. Search near your home's foundation: Bathrooms often lie near where the cleanout is positioned. Check near the foundation or walk toward the curb if you don't immediately spot the cleanout. Examine near plants: Sometimes, homeowners hide the cleanout pipe. Feel around under any grass or bushes for the hard plastic cap. Dig if necessary: In rare cases, the sewer cleanout may be buried. You can dig a few inches around the most likely areas to locate it, being careful not to hit any utility lines.Option 3: Indoor Searches
Follow the drainage pipes: Start in your basement or crawlspace. Look for a capped pipe near the utility pipes exiting your home. The cleanout is usually next to the foundation. Find a pipe with a cap: Sewer cleanouts typically have a white or black cap with a raised square in the center. Search for capped-off dead ends that may be cleanouts. Look near toilets and floor drains: Check every bathroom and ground drains for a small, noticeable pipe sticking out of the floor with a black or white cap. Inspect the garage or utility areas: Any floor drain could have a cleanout; check the floor first. Look near the drain and move to storage areas like closets. Utility cleanouts are often secondary and meant to help plumbers access specific parts of the sewer system. Check the attic: Sewer cleanouts can be found in attics, often on a ventilation pipe running to the roof. Inspect any visible sewer vent pipes. Access the cleanout if it's in the wall: If you suspect the cleanout is in the wall, you may need to cut open the wall or make a hole with a hammer. However, it's recommended to seek professional help.Conclusion
Locating your sewer cleanout can be a time-consuming process, but it is critical for maintaining the health of your plumbing system. Whether you find it indoors or outdoors, having a cleanout can help prevent costly repairs and keep your home functioning smoothly. If you encounter any difficulty in locating the cleanout, do not hesitate to contact a professional plumber for assistance.