A _______ is required for most changes in direction of the sewer drainage pipe.

A cleanout is utilized in sewer drainage systems to provide access to the drainage pipe for the purpose of cleaning and maintenance. When a sewer drainage pipe changes direction, especially at significant angles, it creates a higher likelihood of blockages occurring within that section of the pipe. A cleanout allows for easy access to these areas to clear clogs without having to remove large sections of the piping. It is typically installed at bends, turns, or at intervals along the drainage system, as per plumbing codes, to ensure that any potential build-up can be addressed effectively.

In contrast, traps, vents, and joints serve different purposes within a plumbing system. Traps are designed to prevent sewer gases from entering the home by maintaining a water seal. Vents allow air to enter the plumbing system, facilitating proper drainage and preventing vacuum formation. Joints are connections between sections of pipe but do not provide access for maintenance. Each of these components plays a unique role, but when it comes to facilitating access for maintenance during directional changes, the cleanout is essential.