Abstract: An improved drain cable apparatus (10) is provided which facilitates clearing of clogged drainpipes (16) while providing a way to readily determine whether the drainpipe (16) has been cleared, without the necessity of withdrawing the drain cable (70) from the drainpipe (16). The apparatus (10) includes a tubular main body (12) adapted for connection via a sleeve (34) to the drainpipe (16); the main body (12) is equipped with internal drain cable-cleaning sponge elements (32), as well as an apertured end cap member (18) permitting insertion of the drain cable (70). Structure (20) for determining when the drainpipe (16) has been cleared includes a water inlet (48) and a spaced water outlet (54) arranged so that water delivered to the main body (12) passes outwardly through the outlet (54) while the drainpipe (16) remains clogged, but allows such water to pass through the drainpipe (16) when the latter is clear.