What Is a Plumbing Cleanout (and Where Is Yours)?

A plumbing cleanout is an essential part of your home’s plumbing system. It provides a point of access to your pipes, making it easier for professionals to clear clogs or blockages and maintain your plumbing system. If you don’t know where yours is located, don’t worry — this guide will help you understand what a plumbing cleanout is, where to find it and why it’s important.

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What Is the Purpose of a Plumbing Cleanout?

The purpose of a plumbing cleanout is to allow plumbers to access your drainage system without needing to dig up pipes or cause extensive damage. It acts as an entry point to your plumbing system, enabling professionals to quickly clear out blockages, roots or debris that could cause a backup. This small, often overlooked feature of your plumbing system plays a big role in keeping things flowing smoothly.

When there’s a clog in your sewer line or a problem in the drainage system, accessing the cleanout is often the first step in resolving the issue. Instead of trying to locate the blockage deep within your pipes, plumbers use the cleanout to insert tools like augers or cameras to identify and fix the problem. In some cases, a sewer cleanout might even be used to perform routine maintenance, ensuring your pipes remain clear and in good condition.

Where Is My Main Sewer Cleanout Located?

If you’re wondering where the plumbing cleanout is in your home, it’s typically located outside near the perimeter of your house or in the basement, depending on your home's layout. Most homes have at least one main house plumbing cleanout that provides access to the main sewer line, but larger homes with more plumbing may have multiple cleanouts.

In older homes, the cleanout may be a pipe sticking out of the ground, often near your foundation. It might look like a white or black pipe with a cap on top. In more modern homes, it could be a small plastic or metal access point that may not be as visible but is still essential for maintenance and repairs.

How Do I Find My Plumbing Cleanout Outside?

Finding your plumbing cleanout outside is a relatively straightforward task, but it can sometimes be hidden. The cleanout is often located close to your foundation, usually at the lowest point on the exterior of the house. Look for a capped pipe sticking out of the ground or a small access point that's flush with the ground. If the cleanout is near your sewer line, it might be a few feet away from the house, typically in the front or rear yard.

In some cases, the cleanout may be concealed by landscaping or other outdoor features. If this is the case, carefully inspect the area and move any bushes, shrubs or grass to expose the cleanout. If you're unable to find it on your own, a plumber can help locate your sewer cleanout and may even provide you with a map of your plumbing system for future reference.

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How Often Should You Access Your Plumbing Cleanout?

You don’t need to access your plumbing cleanout regularly unless you experience a problem like a clog or blockage. However, it’s a good idea to check it periodically to ensure it's in good condition and easy to access in case of an emergency. If you're experiencing frequent clogs or slow drains, it might be time to inspect it to see if there's an issue that needs addressing.

In general, you should access your cleanout when:

• You notice signs of a clog or slow drains.

• You’re experiencing sewage backup or foul odors in your yard or home.

• A plumber needs to clear a blockage in your system.

• You’re doing preventive maintenance on your plumbing system, such as having a professional inspect your sewer lines.

If your home relies on a septic system, it’s important to access the cleanout periodically to inspect for any issues that could lead to backups or system failure.