Journeyman Plumber ExamDrainage, Waste, and Venting (DWV) SystemsMedium

A plumber is inspecting a newly installed 4-inch building sewer. What is the minimum required size for the cleanout fitting that must be installed at the junction of the building drain and the building sewer?

  1. A6 inches
  2. B2 inches
  3. C4 inches
  4. D3 inches
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 4 inches

Plumbing codes generally require that a cleanout fitting be installed at the junction of the building drain and building sewer, and its size must be at least the size of the pipe it serves, up to a maximum of 4 inches. Therefore, for a 4-inch building sewer, a 4-inch cleanout is required.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. While a 6-inch cleanout would work, it is larger than the minimum required by code for a 4-inch sewer.
  • B. 2 inches is too small for a 4-inch building sewer cleanout.
  • D. 3 inches is too small for a 4-inch building sewer cleanout.

Building Sewer Cleanout Size

The minimum diameter required for a cleanout fitting installed on a building sewer, typically at its junction with the building drain.

  • Must be at least the size of the pipe it serves, up to 4 inches.
  • Allows for clearing blockages in the building sewer.
  • Essential for maintenance and inspection.
  • Location and accessibility are also critical requirements.

Memory trick: Cleanout matches the PIPE, for a clear view, day and night!

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