Illinois Plumbing Code Practice

Can a cleanout be used as a floor drain?

1. Yes

2. No

The correct answer is: No

The correct response highlights that a cleanout cannot be used as a floor drain due to its specific purpose and requirements under plumbing standards. A cleanout is designed primarily for access to the plumbing system for the purpose of cleaning and maintenance, such as removing clogs or blockages. Floor drains, on the other hand, are intended to collect and remove water from a specific area, typically in a bathroom, basement, or utility room, and are designed to discharge that water safely into the drainage system. Using a cleanout as a floor drain could lead to potential issues, including inadequate drainage, inappropriate access for maintenance, and violations of plumbing code requirements, creating health risks and complicating maintenance and repairs. Therefore, each type of fixture has distinct roles in plumbing systems, which reinforces why a cleanout should not be employed as a floor drain.