Macerating toilets, also called upflush toilets, give homeowners flexibility to add a bathroom almost anywhere in the home. Unlike a traditional gravity-flush toilet, you can install a macerating toilet below or far from the main plumbing stack, creating more bathroom placement options.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything about macerating toilets, from their inner workings to maintenance requirements. Whether you’re considering adding a bathroom to a basement, garage, or another tricky location, we’ll help you decide if a macerating fits your situation.
How Macerating Toilets Work
Macerating toilets may look like standard ones but work differently. When you flush a macerating toilet, the waste doesn’t just flow down into a pipe below. Instead, it moves to an electric macerator and pump unit.
The rotating blade in the macerator, typically found behind the toilet or concealed within a wall, grinds the waste and mixes it with water. This creates a slurry that is pumped through small-diameter pipes. The mixture is then pumped up and out to the main plumbing stack, which can be up to 15 feet high and 150 feet away, depending on the pump’s power.
When To Choose a Macerating Toilet
Macerating toilets aren’t usually recommended as primary toilets because frequent use can wear out the pump. However, they work well when traditional toilets aren’t an option. Here are a few scenarios where a macerating toilet might be perfect:
Basement Bathrooms
If you want to add a bathroom in the basement, a macerating toilet can be a game-changer. Traditional plumbing relies on gravity, which doesn’t work well for below-grade installations. A macerating toilet pumps waste upward, making installing basement bathrooms much easier and more cost effective.
Remote Locations
Macerating toilets offer a practical solution for garages, workshops, or remote cabins without standard plumbing. They only need a water supply, electrical supply, and access to a plumbing stack, making them ideal for these locations.
Small Spaces
The compact design of macerating toilets makes them perfect for small spaces where a traditional toilet won’t fit. This can be particularly useful in tiny homes, renovated attics, or areas with limited room.
Temporary Bathrooms
During home remodeling or for guests, macerating toilets provide a temporary bathroom solution. They’re easy to install and remove, making them perfect for short-term needs.
Not all local plumbing codes allow macerating toilets, so check with your local authorities before moving forward.
Pros: Flexibility and Convenience
Macerating toilets’ advantages include:
Easy Installation
One of macerating toilets’ biggest perks is how easy they are to install. You only need two pipes, and you can often complete installation in about four hours with minimal tools. If you have some plumbing experience, you can handle the job yourself.
Versatility
You can install these toilets in places where traditional toilets won’t work. This versatility lets you add bathrooms in unconventional spaces, potentially boosting your home’s value and functionality.
Water Efficiency
Many macerating toilets are water efficient. Some use 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), but many models use only 1.28 GPF, and ultra-efficient ones use as little as 0.8 GPF, leading to significant water savings.
Durability
When maintained properly, macerating toilets can last as long as traditional toilets, usually functioning well for 10 to 15 years before needing parts replaced.
Cons: Cost and Maintenance
While macerating toilets offer great benefits, they also come with some drawbacks:
Higher Initial Cost
Depending on the brand and model, macerating toilets can cost nearly twice as much as standard gravity-flush models. You’ll save money, though, by avoiding costly plumbing modifications needed for a traditional toilet.
Electricity Dependence
Macerating toilets need electricity to run the pump. This can be an issue in areas with frequent power outages. Battery-operated models are available, but they add complexity and cost.
Noise
The grinding and pumping make macerating toilets noisier than standard toilets. Most pumps operate at 35 to 45 A-weighted decibels—similar to a refrigerator’s hum.
Maintenance Requirements
Macerating toilets need more upkeep than traditional toilets. You’ll need to flush them regularly to prevent buildup and monitor the pump to make sure it doesn’t run dry. Over time, the impeller can wear out, slowing the system down.
Cleaning Restrictions
Many common toilet cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage the rubber parts of a macerating toilet. Stick to mild cleaners and avoid anything that foams excessively.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Keep these tips in mind to keep your macerating toilet running smoothly and lasting longer:
Installation
- Follow manufacturer instructions carefully. Follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer. Even minor errors can lead to serious problems down the line. Read the manual thoroughly to avoid mistakes.
- Ensure proper pipe sizing and angles during installation. The size and angle of the pipes are critical for a macerating toilet to operate effectively. Using incorrect sizes or angles leads to clogs or inefficient pumping, causing unnecessary wear and tear on the system.
- Connect to a reliable power source. Since the pump requires electricity to function, provide a stable and reliable power connection. Avoid using extension cords, and have a dedicated circuit installed by a qualified electrician.
Maintenance
- Flush regularly to prevent buildup. Regular flushing keeps the macerator and pipes clear of debris, which leads to blockages. Encourage family members to flush thoroughly and avoid excessive use of toilet paper to prolong the life of the toilet.
- Monitor pump performance and watch for signs of wear. Periodically checking the pump’s performance catches issues early. Signs of wear include unusual noises, slower flushing, and decreased efficiency. Address these signs quickly to prevent more significant problems.
- Use vinegar to clean the bowl and a specially formulated descaler for hard water areas. Clean your macerating toilet regularly with these gentle agents to maintain its appearance and functionality without causing damage.
- Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items or using too much toilet paper. Make sure everyone in your household knows not to flush non-degradable items such as sanitary products and wipes. These cause clogs and damage the macerator.
- Get regular professional inspections. Hire a professional for periodic inspections to keep the system in top condition. A yearly check-up catches issues you might not detect and extends the toilet’s lifespan.
- Consider a backup system. A battery backup system or manual pump can keep your toilet functioning during power losses.
