Identifying and Fixing Leaking Clean-Outs in Drain Pipes
Understanding Clean-Outs
Clean-outs are essential plumbing fixtures that provide access to sewer main lines for cleaning and clearing blockages. However, like any plumbing fitting, clean-outs can develop leaks. It’s crucial to know the location of all clean-outs in your home and to check them regularly for signs of leakage.
Why Check for Leaking Clean-Outs?
Overlooking a leaking clean-out can have serious consequences. These leaks, though seemingly minor, are often associated with sewer line issues, which can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Since clean-outs are typically located in basements or crawl spaces, it’s easy to miss these leaks unless you make a conscious effort to inspect them.
Causes of Clean-Out Leaks
Clean-out plugs are threaded to allow for easy removal when accessing the drainpipe. However, these threads can also be a source of leaks due to the difficulty in achieving a liquid-tight seal. Cheap plastic clean-out plugs, in particular, often have loose tolerances that compromise their ability to hold back liquid. Additionally, old brass clean-out plugs can also develop leaks for the same reason.
Beware of Leaky Clean-Outs
While it’s important to be vigilant about checking for leaks, it’s equally important to exercise caution when removing a leaking clean-out. If the drainpipe is backed up, removing the plug could result in a sudden and unsanitary release of wastewater.
To avoid this scenario, ensure that all drains, including the toilet, are functioning normally and not showing signs of slow drainage. If there is no backup, you can proceed to remove the clean-out slowly, checking for excess liquid as you unthread the plug. Stand to the side when making the final turns to prevent exposure to any potential gusher.
Sealing a Leaky Clean-Out
Most leaking clean-out plugs can be sealed using common plumbing materials such as plumber’s tape, pipe thread tape, or pipe dope. Simply wrap the threads of the clean-out plug with tape a few times, or apply a generous coating of pipe dope, and reinstall the plug. Remember to wrap the tape clockwise to prevent bunching when threading the plug.
Additional Tips
- Inspect clean-outs periodically as part of your routine plumbing maintenance.
- If you notice a leak, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
- If you must remove a leaking clean-out, take precautions to avoid potential wastewater discharge.
- If the leak persists after sealing the clean-out, there may be an underlying issue with the drainpipe or sewer line, which requires professional attention.
