Macerating Toilets: A Complete Guide

Where does the waste from a macerating toilet go?

The macerating toilet's pump uses stainless steel cutting blades to convert solids and fluids into a fine mixture that can be easily pumped into your home's main plumbing lines. This compact macerator pump is typically located behind the toilet tank, but it can also be concealed behind a bathroom wall.

In homes where certain areas are below existing lateral plumbing lines, a macerating toilet is an obvious choice for installing a bathroom in a basement, below-grade workshop, or garage, where gravity-fed toilets won't function properly.

Without sufficient height drop, water pressure levels may be too low for gravity-fed toilets. In some cases, parts of the ground floor may also be below or level with the plumbing lines, making a small macerator pump an ideal solution. Additionally, macerating toilets are suitable for cabins, off-grid homes, and other structures lacking standard plumbing connections.

Many macerating toilets available today come with pumps large enough to connect a sink and shower. This capability allows you to add a complete bathroom in a newly finished basement, a renovated garage converted into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), or similar renovation projects.

Do you need a pump for a macerating toilet?

Yes, a pump is required for a macerating toilet. The pump is a critical component, playing a key role in breaking down waste and toilet paper into a fine slurry that can be easily transported through small-diameter pipes.

The macerator pump is typically located behind the toilet or within the wall cavity and operates on electricity. When you flush the toilet, the waste and toilet paper pass through the macerator pump, which grinds the solids into a slurry. This slurry is then pumped through the small-diameter pipe to the sewer line or septic tank.

Proper installation and maintenance of the macerator pump are essential for the macerating toilet system to function correctly. A failing pump can cause backups and blockages in the pipes, leading to messy and unpleasant situations.

It's crucial to know how many vertical and horizontal feet you need to pump your bathroom waste to connect with the existing lateral lines. Manufacturers typically provide information on the pumping power of their macerating toilet systems. Some of the most powerful macerating pumps can handle up to 15 feet of vertical pumping and 150 feet of horizontal pumping, providing ample capacity for most homes to transport waste to the sewer or septic tank.

Can you use toilet paper in a macerating toilet?

Yes, you can use toilet paper in a macerating toilet. These toilets are designed to handle toilet paper and other organic waste effectively.

However, it is crucial to use toilet paper specifically designed for macerating toilets. This type of toilet paper dissolves quickly and easily, helping to prevent blockages in the small-diameter pipes. Using regular toilet paper, especially thicker or stronger varieties, can lead to clogs and backups in the macerator pump and pipes.

To ensure your macerating toilet functions properly, use only toilet paper labeled as safe for use in macerating toilets. Look for labels such as "macerator safe" or "septic safe."

Besides using the appropriate toilet paper, avoid flushing other items down the toilet, such as baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, or non-organic materials. These items can clog the macerator pump and pipes, causing backups and blockages.

Unlike conventional toilets, blockages in macerator toilets cannot be cleared with a plunger. Instead, you will likely need to call a plumber, which could result in costly repairs.

Are macerating toilets loud?

Macerating toilets are typically quieter than traditional toilets, thanks to their macerator pumps, which operate at low decibel levels to minimize noise during the flushing process.

However, the actual noise level of a macerating toilet can vary based on factors like the location of the macerator pump and the quality of the installation. If the pump is located near living spaces such as a bedroom or living room, it may be more noticeable when operating.

To reduce the noise generated by a macerating toilet, ensure that the macerator pump is properly installed and all connections are secure. Choosing a high-quality macerating toilet with a well-designed pump can also help keep noise levels down.

Saniflo, a leading manufacturer of macerating toilets, states that their products are "no louder than a toilet flushing." The sound volume emitted in decibels can vary depending on the installation and surroundings, such as whether the room is tiled, the size and shape of the room, and other factors.

Do macerating toilets smell?

Macerating toilets are designed to prevent unpleasant odors from escaping into your bathroom or living space. The macerator pump grinds waste and toilet paper into a fine slurry, which is then pumped through a small-diameter pipe to the sewer line or septic tank. This process helps prevent waste from lingering in the toilet or pipes, which can cause odors.

However, if a macerating toilet is not installed or maintained correctly, it can develop odors. This can occur if the macerator pump or pipes become clogged or if there are leaks in the system.

To prevent odors from developing, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and maintenance. Regularly cleaning the toilet bowl and macerator pump, and using cleaning products specifically designed for macerating toilets, can also help keep odors at bay.

Additionally, avoid flushing items that can cause odors, such as food waste, grease, or other non-organic materials. These items can clog the macerator pump and pipes, leading to unpleasant smells.

How do you clean a macerating toilet?

Cleaning a macerating toilet is similar to cleaning a traditional toilet, but it requires extra care for the macerator pump and pipes to ensure they remain in good condition and function properly. Follow these steps when cleaning a macerating toilet:

1. Turn off the power to the macerator pump to prevent any accidents while cleaning.
2. Use a toilet bowl cleaner specifically designed for macerating toilets. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the macerator pump and pipes.
3. Scrub the inside of the bowl with a toilet brush, paying particular attention to the rim and under the bowl.
4. Wipe down the outside of the toilet, including the tank and lid, with a damp cloth or sponge.
5. Clean the macerator pump and pipes using a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. Gently scrub the surfaces to remove any buildup or debris.
6. Rinse the macerator pump and pipes with water to remove any remaining debris.
7. Turn the power back on to the macerator pump.

Regular cleaning, at least once a week depending on usage, helps prevent buildup and odors. Additionally, have your macerating toilet serviced and inspected by a professional at least once a year to ensure the macerator pump and pipes are functioning correctly and to prevent any issues from developing over time.

Products designed to eliminate limescale build-up can also preserve the internal workings of your macerator and pump. However, avoid using unblocking products or any acids, as these can damage the internal components of your macerator and void your warranty.