About Macerating Toilets and Systems
In the past, installing plumbing fixtures below the main sewer line or in remote locations was a real challenge, often requiring making a large hole in a foundation and installing a sewage basin with pump, which would accumulate waste and discharge it above the the level of the main sever. Macerating systems provide an all-in-one solution, allowing for installation of toilets, showers, sinks and other fixtures without any major construction work and eliminating high labor costs.
How it works
A special toilet with rear outlet (instead of a standard bottom one) can be positioned anywhere near the wall - no need to remove tile or concrete floor. A compact and inconspicuous macerating pump is connected to the rear outlet of the bowl, right below the toilet tank. The pump performs two functions - it shreds the waste into a slurry and discharges it through the outlet to a designated discharge location. An optional extension pipe can be used to install the macerating pump/unit behind the wall, allowing for a clean installation with no pipes exposed.
Types of Macerating Systems
Macerator vs. Grinder - while both perform the same function, the standard macerator is designed to handle only human waste and toilet paper, whereas grinder is also capable of shredding personal hygiene products.
Standard vs Self-Contained - the main difference is that in the latter the pump is integrated into the toilet itself, further reducing footprint and installation time.
Floor-standing vs Wall-mounted - the former is the standard and most popular choice. Wall-mounted option is mainly intended for the elderly and persons with disabilities.
Multi-fixture capabilities (half-bath & full bathroom) - some units offer the most basic options for connecting a toilet and a secondary fixture such as a sink, while others may include low or additional inlets for connecting a shower or a tub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which components are required for a typical installation?
A: A macerating (or a grinder) toilet pump and the toilet itself. In many instances, these are available as full kits (Pump+Toilet). If it is necessary to install the system behind the wall, use an extension pipe (for floor-standing toilets only). Some models may be compatible with an optional external alarm.
Q: Are toilets, pumps & components from different brands interchangeable?
A: Toilet bowl, tank and macerating module - no. Parts in the toilet tank (fill & flush valve, tank-to-bowl gaskets, etc.) can be replaced using Korky and Fluidmaster products.
Q: What kind of piping work is usually required for a typical macerating toilet system installation?
A: 1 - Running inlet pipes to the macerating pump. 2 - Running a discharge line to the main sewer line. 3 - Running a vent pipe (air admittance valves are not allowed). These lines are usually 1-1/2" or 2" PVC.
Q: Is is possible to install a complete bathroom with macerating toilet system?
A: Some models with allow for up to (2) additional fixtures (for example, 1 sink and 1 shower) - these are considered "full bath". Others only have a single additional inlet, usually for a standard sink and are therefore classified as "half bath".
