Sewer cleanouts are not often discussed, but they should be. In fact, most homeowners would not know what a sewer cleanout is, what it does, and where it’s found. The truth is, knowing the ins and outs of these sewer openings can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Before you take the plunge, here’s everything you need to know about sewer cleanouts.

What Is a Sewer Cleanout?

A sewer cleanout is a capped pipe that allows water to flow into the main sewer drain. If you have clogs in your pipes, you can use a hydro jetter to clear them out. It is better to let a professional handle this job, as hydro jetting can be tricky for amateurs. By opening the cleanout attached to your sewer line, you are preventing sewage from leaking out of the pipe and onto your floor or into the street. Sewer cleanouts are usually located near the drain stack, and they are recognizable by their cap made of brass, iron, or plastic. The cap indicates where the pipe leads (to your toilet or septic tank, for instance).

What Do Sewer Cleanouts Look Like?

Sewer cleanouts are caps on the ends of vertical pipes. They are often painted white, brown, or orange to make them easier to find.

How To Locate a Sewer Cleanout?

Finding the sewer cleanout can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know where to begin.

If you’re building a new home or remodeling, be aware that the plumbing lines may not be where you think they are. Sometimes they’re located inside the foundation, and sometimes they’re outside. Look around your property line, as well as inside the house, for all cleanouts.

The Benefits of a Sewer Cleanout

Having a sewer cleanout Chicago in your property line could provide some benefits. Here are some reasons why you might want to have one.

  • Low maintenance costs

Having a cleanout installed means that you can avoid plumbing clogs in the future because you will have direct access to your lateral sewer line. You also won’t need to call a plumber to clean your sewer lines, saving you time and money.

  • The preservation of landscape

When major clogging occurs, your lateral sewer will be dug up because it’s essentially underground. However, this can be prevented with sewer cleanouts, in which plumbers can use a camera to inspect and clear clogs through the cleanouts.

  • Backflow prevention

Most homeowners are unaware that sewer cleanouts can also serve as drains. When you uncap the cleanout, any excess water in a pipe can drain out so that water doesn’t back up on the floor or if there is backflow from the main city/tower lateral sewer into your home’s lateral sewer system.

  • Increase your home’s value

When you sell your home, the buyers will want to have a drain inspection. Having one already in place can give you an advantage over other homes for sale. The buyers will be reassured that there are no major plumbing problems and will feel less pressure to make any repairs right away.