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Plumbing

Cleanout

In Plain English

A capped access point in drain pipes that a plumber opens to insert a snake or camera to clear clogs.

Definition

An access fitting installed in drain and sewer piping that allows a plumber to insert drain cleaning equipment to clear blockages. Cleanouts must be installed at the base of all stacks, at changes in direction greater than 45 degrees, and at intervals not exceeding 100 feet in horizontal runs. They are provided with threaded or capped plugs to keep the system sealed.

Why It Matters in Bidding

Cleanouts are a code-required line item that estimators must catch on the plumbing takeoff, since omitting them invites failed inspections and costly rework after slabs are poured or walls closed. Their count and placement affect fitting quantities, labor, and access provisions, all of which feed the bid. Coordinating cleanout locations with finishes and accessibility early prevents change orders downstream.

Example

During plumbing takeoff, an estimator counts every stack base, each direction change over 45 degrees, and the 100-foot horizontal intervals to total the cleanout fittings and access covers needed for the bid.

Related Terms

Building DrainBuilding SewerDrain-Waste-Vent (DWV)Soil Pipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard plumbing codes call for cleanouts at the base of stacks, at changes of direction greater than 45 degrees, at building drain-to-sewer transitions, and at intervals not exceeding 100 feet in horizontal runs, with larger pipe sometimes allowing longer spacing. Local amendments vary, so confirm the adopted code edition before finalizing the takeoff.
Individually they are inexpensive fittings, but counts add up on large drainage systems, and each requires access. Cleanouts behind finished walls or under slabs need access panels or floor covers, raising labor and coordination cost. Estimators price the fitting, the cover, and the access provision, not just the cleanout body itself.
A cleanout is a sealed, capped access fitting used only to insert snakes or cameras for clearing blockages; it does not normally receive water. A floor drain actively collects and removes standing water and connects to the drainage system through a trap. They serve different functions and are counted separately on takeoffs.

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