In How Does SNFLEX Macerator Work? - Part 1, we focused on the internal structure and working principle of the macerator pump. If you are interested, you can click to view the detailed content.
In Part 2, we will provide a detailed analysis of the external structure of the pump and address some common questions people have when choosing and installing a macerator toilet pump.
I. Macerator External Structure and Required Accessories
From the GIF above, we can see that the pump consists of an upper cover and a lower container, which are assembled together using clips. The upper cover has three interfaces on top, while the container below has one large interface in the center and two smaller interfaces on the left and right. The back of the macerator has a power cord.
About the Clips:
Generally, you will not need to open the clip during normal use. The upper cover and the lower container are well sealed with a rubber ring, leaving no gaps, so there is no need to worry about leaks.
About the Upper Cover:
The two interfaces next to each other are as follows: one is a vent, and the other is a backup water inlet.
- Vent - If you open the vent cover, you will see a built-in carbon filter that helps control odors in areas where a vent pipe cannot be installed properly. It is recommended to replace the activated carbon filter once a year. If you need to install a vent pipe, locate it here as well.
- Backup Water Inlet - The backup water inlet (diameter 1-1/2") is sealed. When needed, you can cut the sealing layer and connect it to any device you wish to drain, such as a sink, laundry machine, kitchen sink, etc.
- Discharge Outlet - The other interface is the drainage outlet, which needs to be installed with the included check valve. You can select the appropriate outlet diameter for the check valve (9/10", 1-1/10", 1-1/4", or 1-1/7"), depending on the size of the drainage pipe you have. The rubber interface can accommodate a 1-2mm error and is secured with a clamp.
- Repair Panel - In the center of the upper cover is a circular panel, secured with four screws, known as the service panel. If the macerator pump becomes blocked during use, you can easily open it to clean out debris.
About the Lower Container:
- Toilet Discharge - The large circular interface on the front of the pump is for connecting the waste discharge pipe from the toilet, with a rubber hose in the middle for connection, secured with a clamp. It is suitable for toilet waste pipes with an outer diameter of approximately 3-1/2" to 3-9/10".
If you plan to use an extension pipe to hide the pump and plumbing behind the wall, connect the rubber hose to one end of the extension pipe, and attach the other end (with its built-in rubber ring) to the toilet waste pipe using appropriate adhesive.
If you do not plan to connect to the toilet, you can cover the interface with the decorative cap provided to prevent any foreign objects from entering the pump and maintain aesthetics.
- Backup Water Inlets - The small interfaces on the left and right are similar to the backup water inlet on the upper cover, with a diameter of 1-1/2". They are used to connect devices such as sinks, showers, bathtubs, etc., to meet the needs of a half-bath, 3/4 bath, or full bath.
You can use the rubber connectors provided in the package, cut open the sealing layer, and secure the inlet pipe with a clamp.
These two inlets are equipped with built-in check valves, and when setting up the pipes, leave a 2-3 degree slope to prevent sewage backflow.
Adding a drainage trap for each device will help prevent odor backflow effectively.
If not in use, seal the openings with the plugs provided in the package. Ensure the side with the notch faces downward, insert it into the pre-set clip, and twist to achieve a seamless seal, preventing wastewater leakage.
Required Accessories:
All required accessories mentioned above are included in the package, as shown below:
II. Macerator FAQs
-
Does the macerator have a built-in check valve?
Answer: For the side water inlets, yes, there is a built-in check valve. For the drainage outlet, the package includes a check valve that needs to be manually installed.
-
Is it better to use 90 degrees or two 45-degree angles for the waste discharge pipe?
Answer: Two 45-degree angles are better.
-
What size pipe is recommended for the discharge outlet?
Answer: You can choose freely, 9/10", 1-1/10", 1-1/4", or 1-1/7".
-
Can an upflush system support a shower, toilet, and sink?
Answer: Of course! In addition to the toilet connection, the 600W strong macerator pump has three backup water inlets.
-
Does each fixture need to be vented?
Answer: No, it is not necessary.
-
Do the shower and sink need traps?
Answer: We recommend installing traps for both the shower and sink. Traps prevent sewer gases from entering the living space and help with proper drainage.
-
Can I connect a kitchen sink to this toilet?
Answer: Yes.
-
Does an upflush toilet need a vent?
Answer: This is optional. The pump comes with a vent port and a built-in carbon filter.
-
How do I install a vent pipe?
Answer: Choose a vent pipe slightly larger than the vent, install it at the vent opening (do not remove the carbon filter), keep it as short as possible with minimal turns, and connect it to an outdoor or main ventilation duct.
-
Do upflush toilets smell?
Answer: The design of the upflush toilet does not inherently cause odors. With the built-in carbon filter and the option to install a vent pipe, odors can be effectively controlled.
Additionally, when connecting other devices, installing a drainage trap will help avoid odor issues.
-
Does the pump come with a warranty?
Answer: Yes, we offer a one-year warranty on the pump.
-
How loud are upflush toilets?
Answer: 35-45 dBA. The noise level will not interfere with your daily activities.
-
How to clean an upflush toilet?
Answer: The best cleaning method is to use a mild detergent, perform regular flushes and maintenance to avoid the buildup of dirt and bacteria inside the pipes.
Additionally, during daily use, avoid allowing excessive hair, feminine hygiene products, or other debris to enter the pump system.
-
Do you need electricity for the macerator toilet system?
Answer: Yes.
-
Does an upflush toilet system need its own dedicated electrical circuit?
Answer: No.
-
Does a SNFLEX macerator pump use a lot of electricity?
Answer: No. SNFLEX macerator pump has a power rating of 600W. Assuming an electricity rate of $0.15/kWh and daily use for 30 minutes, the monthly power consumption is 9 kWh, costing only $1.35.
III. Conclusion
This article provided a detailed insight of the external structure of SNFLEX macerator pump and addresses common issues and tips. If your issue isn't resolved here, feel free to check our another blog post - How Does SNFLEX Macerator Work? Part 1, learn about the internal structure and operating principle of the macerator pump. Or leave a comment below with any questions. We'll get back to you as soon as possible!