Macerator toilets are a great way to add a toilet to any area where conventional plumbing isn’t an option. This is because a macerator toilet uses a device to grind waste, allowing for small diameter pipes to be used in new builds, or areas where it would normally not be possible.
The macerator toilet pumps waste away, allowing for installation in basements and en-suites, where a traditional toilet would have struggled with gravity.
The keyadvantages of using a macerator toilet is that it helps to maximize space where plumbing is limited. Compared to a traditional toilet installation, the piping that is used when installing a macerator toilet is much smaller, often around half an inch.
This reduces installation time and is also much easier to fit into small spaces. Additionally, the waste is almost fully pulverized, meaning that the usual scale and residue build-up that is associated with traditional pipework is kept to a minimum.
In conclusion, macerator toilets are an excellent solution when there is a requirement to install a toilet in an area with limited space or plumbing access. Their small pipe requirements, easy installation and low-maintenance operation make them ideal for a variety of settings.
What is the advantage of a macerator?
The main advantage of a macerator is its ability to handle volume and increase capacity. It can break down sewage, kitchen waste, macerating toilet and laundry waste quickly, effectively and without blockages.
It is a great way to quickly break down sewage and other organic waste and make it more manageable without clogging. It is also able to reduce wastewater flow rate and increase the capacity of a septic system.
This can help to increase the removal efficiency of solids and reduce the risk of blockages. Additionally, macerators are generally easy to install and can fit into tight spaces. The system eliminates the need for a home to have existing sewer infrastructure.
Since macerators need no extra venting, they are much more economical than traditional systems. All in all, a macerator is a great way to increase the capacity of a septic system and solve wastewater problems quickly and efficiently.
Is a macerating toilet a good idea?
Macerating toilets are a great idea for many homeowners. They are generally easier to install than a traditional toilet, so they can be a great choice for those looking to do a bathroom renovation on a budget or in a tight space.
Macerating toilets are also quieter than traditional toilets due to the powerful motor that grinds up the waste before sending it on through the pipes. This can be especially beneficial in areas where sound carries, such as apartments and condominiums.
Additionally, the circulatory action of the motor helps to reduce clogs and odors in the pipes, making for a more pleasant restroom experience. Finally, these toilets are capable of managing a high-water use load more easily than traditional toilets, helping to decrease water bills for homeowners.
What can you not put in the macerator?
You should not put any large pieces of food, plastic, glass, bones, fibrous vegetables, metals, cloth, or other materials through the macerator. It is not designed to handle these materials and could end up clogging or damaging the unit.
Additionally, items like paper towels, sanitary items, and other materials that can swell and expand should also not be put in the macerator. These materials can cause major blockages and cause damage to the unit.
Finally, it is important to remember that the macerator is not designed to chop up food or large pieces of debris. It is intended to grind up small items like fats, oils, and food scraps in order to be efficiently flushed through the pipes.
Where does the waste go from a macerating toilet?
The waste from a macerating toilet goes through a small pipe where it is pre-ground and chopped up by a specially designed blade. This small pipe then leads from the toilet through the wall and into the main sewer line or septic tank, depending on the household’s waste management system.
The waste is then moved through the larger pipes, where it is further broken down and delivered to the designated waste management facility, such as a wastewater treatment plant. This facility further processes and treats the waste in accordance with local regulations and environmental standards.
Can you use bleach in a toilet with a macerator?
No, you should never use bleach in a toilet with a macerator. Bleach is an acidic and corrosive chemical, and macerators are designed to shred waste and flush it away efficiently. It can actually cause damage to the macerator, as well as lead to clogs and leaks.
If your toilet is not draining properly, using baking soda, vinegar, and hot water can help deodorize and clean the toilet without damaging the macerator. Additionally, it is important to periodically use a macerator-specific cleaner or descaler to keep the system running efficiently and prevent scale or sludge buildup.
How long do macerator toilets last?
The life span of a macerator toilet depends on the brand and type of model, how well it is maintained and how often it is used. Generally, these toilets are known for their durability and can last up to 10-15 years or even longer given proper maintenance and care.
To ensure that your macerator toilet lasts for its full life span, it is important to clean it regularly with full flush and ensure that all its components are always in working order. Additionally, although macerator toilets have strong motors and blades, it is important to try and reduce the amount of solid waste from entering the toilet to protect the motor from being overused or prematurely damaged.
If you notice any issues with your macerator toilet, it is best to get it serviced or repaired. Regular maintenance and repairs can help extend the life of your macerator toilet.
Do macerator toilets need servicing?
Yes, macerator toilets do need servicing, just like any other type of plumbing fixture. Over time, the macerating blades in the unit can dull and cause it to wear down, which can lead to problems with draining and blockages.
Additionally, sediment can build up in the unit and cause it to become inefficient. Regularly scheduled maintenance is highly recommended and could help to extend the life of your macerator toilet and reduce the risk of costly repairs.
During servicing, the macerator should be inspected and cleaned to ensure it’s in top condition. Generally, this involves the technician flushing the unit with a cleaning solution and performing a visual inspection to check for any issues that should be addressed.
The cost of a macerator toilet service will depend on the extent of the servicing required, as well as the technician’s rates. It is a good idea to contact a qualified local plumbing technician for a quote and advice.
Can a macerator handle a tampon?
Yes, macerators can be capable of handling small items like tampons as long as they are not flushed down the toilet. However, macerators are mostly designed for handling solid waste like fecal matter, not for rapidly moving liquid down the pipes.
Therefore, in order to safely dispose of tampons it is best to put them in the trash, and not flush them down the toilet. Flushing tampons can cause drainage blockages, which can be costly to fix and a hassle to deal with.
Additionally, they may contain chemicals, such as chlorine, that can be harmful to the environment.
How do you drain a macerator?
To drain a macerator, start by turning off the power to the appliance. Once the power is off, disconnect the hose from the waste pipe and move it to the bucket for the discharge. Use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the two clamps that secure the macerator pump to the wall.
Then, unscrew the fasteners and carefully lower the macerator housing away from the wall. Once the housing has been lowered, disconnect the hoses that connect it to the washing machine drainpipe.
Next, unscrew and remove the top from the macerator body. There may be guards over the drain port and cutting blades, so be sure to move these aside to expose the outlet. Once the outlet is exposed, use a wrench to unscrew the drain cap and the outlet tube.
Once the cap and tube are removed, tilt the macerator and let the remaining water empty out. Make sure to empty the tank completely before proceeding.
Once the tank is completely emptied, use a sponge or cloth to remove all debris from the unit. Then, reattach the outlet and drain cap, taking care to ensure that they are securely fastened. Replace the cutting blades and guards, and then secure the top back into place.
Install the hoses onto the macerator and the drain pipe, and reattach the two clamps that hold the housing to the wall.
Finally, turn the power back on and check for any leaks. If the drains are working properly, it is safe to use the appliance.
Do you have to empty Saniflo toilets?
No, you don’t typically need to empty Saniflo toilets. This is because Saniflo toilets use a Macerator Pump that grinds up waste and then pumps it out of the toilet and away through a waste pipe. This means it’s easier to install in places that are far away from drains, seeing as it won’t have to be manually emptied and serviced.
However, it’s important to still keep the system clean to prevent blockages and bad odors. It’s recommended to use a high quality toilet cleaner and to fill and flush the bowl every few weeks. It’s also important to be careful when flushing paper and other objects, as these can often cause blockages.
How do I dispose of Saniflo?
In order to safely and properly dispose of a Saniflo, you should begin by unplugging the unit from the wall and emptying the contents of the unit, including any waste or water inside. If you are unable to completely empty the unit yourself, contact your local pump installation company for assistance.
Once the unit is empty and dry, you will want to disconnect any pipes and fittings leading to and from the Saniflo and use a saw or hacksaw to cut the pipes. Before disposing of the unit, it is important to check with your local municipality or waste collection agency to find out what their regulations and restrictions are regarding disposing of such items.
If permitted, you can then take the unit and its components to your local waste collection center. If you are unable to take the Saniflo to the waste center, then contact your local waste collection agency to find out if they can provide a pick up service.
Can you flush tampons down a Saniflo toilet?
No, you should not flush tampons down a Saniflo toilet. Tampons can clog the Saniplus system, causing the motor to burn out or cause the macerator to clog. Additionally, female hygiene products don’t disintegrate like toilet paper does and can form sludge or blockages in the unit, including in pipes leading away from the unit.
It is very important that you never flush tampons, sanitary pads, sawdust, kitty litter, cigarette butts, facial tissue, condoms, cotton swabs, paper towel, hair, diapers, or food waste into a Saniplus system.
Additionally, the recommended flushing rate should not be exceeded in order to protect the motor(s) and plumbing system.
Do Macerators smell?
Macerators do not typically smell, as they are installed in plumbing systems to reduce the need for large-diameter piping, which reduces any odors, but it is possible in certain instances that a macerator may smell.
For instance, if a macerator is not correctly installed and maintained, waste may build up within the system, causing a foul smell. Additionally, bacteria may develop due to a lack of regular use, which can also create an unpleasant odor.
It is therefore important to ensure that macerator systems are regularly serviced and maintained to avoid any potential odors.
Where is a macerator not acceptable?
A macerator is not an acceptable plumbing solution for most residential and commercial applications, as it is generally considered an inferior product. This is because macerators are air-driven and can produce varying levels of water pressure and levels of noise, which can be distracting and irritating.
Additionally, macerators are limited to a single purpose and cannot be integrated with other systems unless specially adapted, and the motor and seals must be replaced after some time, costing additional money.
As such, macerators should generally not be used in residential or commercial applications where noise may be an issue, and should generally be avoided in applications outside of specific plumbing designs, such as sewage lift stations.