CSLB Class B General Contractor's License Practice Exam

How frequently should plumbing systems utilize cleanouts for maintenance?

1. Every 5 feet

2. Every 10 feet

3. As needed

4. Every 15 feet

The correct answer is: As needed

The correct answer indicates that cleanouts should be provided "as needed," which is aligned with the flexibility required for plumbing maintenance and code compliance. This concept is vital in plumbing systems to ensure they can be easily accessed for maintenance, inspection, and clearing blockages. In practical terms, cleanouts are installed at strategic locations in a plumbing system—often at major turns, junctions, and specific intervals dictated by code or site conditions—to facilitate efficient cleaning and maintenance. While there are guidelines for spacing cleanouts—such as every 50 feet in horizontal drainage lines and particular provisions for vertical pipes—there can be circumstances based on a plumbing system's layout, complexity, and usage that necessitate additional cleanouts. The "as needed" approach allows for flexibility and recognizes that not all plumbing systems will follow a one-size-fits-all guideline for cleanout placement. Factors like the type of building, the number of fixtures, and specific design challenges can influence how often cleanouts are required. This answer reflects an understanding of practical plumbing design and the need for a tailored approach to system maintenance.