Need some input

[dbucknavich]

Found this on a tri-level. This was on the bottom level in the laundry area. Don't see alot of these so I need some input. It was in the laundry room beneath what would be the washer location. I figure it is a sewer cleanout or an ejector but why is it exposed like that? And would this take a specialist to hook up the washer?

This house had a few strange modifications and was a short sell, so it is as is. I am just looking for what to tell the buyer about what he needs to do in this area.

Thanks in advance.

[Michael Larson]

All I see is access to two cleanouts though partially obstructed.

The washer drain should run between the hot and cold on the wall box.

[dbucknavich]

Oh yeah. My bad. I overthought that one on the washer hookup. I am just a little thrown off by the home being a tri level. I am used to seeing some sort of pump and did not. Thanks though.

[Barry Adair]

My standard inspection procedure is to take the hot supply and run it down the drain at full pressure for at least 2 minutes, unless it backs up immediately.

Why 2 min, you ask? This has been enough time to thoroughly test the drain line and has proven to expose very small leaks when they are present.

When no supply is present I carry one with me. This is my supply and pressure gauge in action.

It appears the cleanouts will have to be dug out for further exam if the drains were not tested during your inspection.

[dbucknavich]

No water service. Oops on the realtor's part. In addition, PB pipe. Fairly limited as you can see.

[dbucknavich]

Oh yeah, and nice idea Barry. I just might steal that.

[Jack L. Gilleland]

Good idea Barry. Think I'll make one up tomarrow. Thanks.

[Charley L. Bottger]

Originally Posted by badair

My standard inspection procedure is to take the hot supply and run it down the drain at full pressure for at least 2 minutes, unless it backs up immediately.

Why 2 min, you ask? This has been enough time to thoroughly test the drain line and has proven to expose very small leaks when they are present.

When no supply is present I carry one with me. This is my supply and pressure gauge in action.

It appears the cleanouts will have to be dug out for further exam if the drains were not tested during your inspection.

have been using that hose set up for years but do not just run for two minutes my test last for the duration of the inspection of the interior I try to flood the main line. I have discovered many slow draining lines in this fashion such as tree root penetration.

[Barry Adair]

Originally Posted by cbottger

have been using that hose set up for years but do not just run for two minutes my test last for the duration of the inspection of the interior I try to flood the main line. I have discovered many slow draining lines in this fashion such as tree root penetration.

Each of us has there own system that works for that individual.
As far as trying to flood the drains or mains I also try and max a system out.

But, I have the rest of the house to inspect and would never leave any running water supply on at any location or unattended for the duration of an inspection, too many chances of flooding accidents and it's hard to call it an accident when I turned it on and walked away. Plus I don't like to clean up other peoples houses.

I fill at least 2/3 full and drain sinks, lavs, tubs, use a shower pan test plunger, flush toilets at least 3 times...if that's not enough drainage to find a leak or clog than so be it...but I think I do a fairly thorough job.

This tub drained and then stopped during the inspection...tree root clog located, verified, and drainline replaced by the contractor saved client $3850 for a partial system repair.

[David P. Valley]

That hole in the floor was definitely designed to be utilized as an access hole for the cleanouts.

But (with all that slop around the hole and new plywood sheet), I'll bet the Sellers were using the hole as a drain for the washer.

Was there a waste line installed between the supplies?

[Charley L. Bottger]

Each of us has there own system that works for that individual.
As far as trying to flood the drains or mains I also try and max a system out.

BA I was not slamming you it's good that we are all individuals different strokes for different folks.

But, I have the rest of the house to inspect and would never leave any running water supply on at any location or unattended for the duration of an inspection, too many chances of flooding accidents and it's hard to call it an accident when I turned it on and walked away.

See we are different again I do leave water running as I am back and forth and in and out of the areas with water running and have never had an accident in over ten years. I am a confirmed believer in lots of water more is always better

flush toilets at least 3 times...

I also flush commodes 2 times twice while inspecting the bathrooms but the 3rd time is the last thing I do before leaving the inspection and have had commodes back up on the 3rd flush that did not backup on the first two flushes. Guess I am on the over kill side but that is just me.

How much water I run is basically determined by the length of the back yard to the city connection. 200 feet of 4 inch sewer main takes a lot of water to make it back up if the blockage was at the city drop.

Again I was not testing your ability as an inspector as I am sure from your past post you are as good as they come. What works for you works for you.

[Barry Adair]

Originally Posted by cbottger

BA I was not slamming you it's good that we are all individuals different strokes for different folks.

CB,
If I thought you were I'd be across the border quicker than you could sing the first verse of Oklahoma ...once you make this front go away...

[Charley L. Bottger]

Originally Posted by badair

CB,
If I thought you were I'd be across the border quicker than you could sing the first verse of Oklahoma ...once you make this front go away...

Yes it would probaly be quicker than you wanted as we are covered in ice up here and more to come Keep your gun powder dry.