For cleanouts on piping 6 inches and smaller, what is the minimum clearance required for rodding?

To ensure effective maintenance and accessibility for cleaning out clogged pipes, plumbing codes specify a minimum clearance around cleanouts. For piping that is 6 inches in diameter or smaller, a minimum clearance of 18 inches is generally mandated from the cleanout to any obstruction. This distance allows adequate space for tools to access the cleanout and perform rodding or snaking of the drain lines.

Maintaining this clearance is crucial as it not only complies with plumbing standards but also facilitates easier, safer, and more effective maintenance of the plumbing system. Limited clearance can lead to challenges when trying to insert rodding equipment, potentially increasing the time and effort needed to address clogs or blockages.