The SNFLEX macerating toilet works similarly to other up flush toilets, consisting of a rear-discharge toilet and a macerator pump. After flushing, wastewater enters the pump, where it is processed and sent through small pipes to the main sewage line.
The macerator plays a crucial role in this process. In this article, I will focus on the macerator, explaining its internal structure, working principle, common issues, and troubleshooting tips, to help you better understand and use SNFLEX.
I. Macerator Internal Structure and Working Principle
The macerator contains three key components: Float Switch, Impeller and Stainless Steel Blades.
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Float Switch: When the water level in the pump rises enough to trigger the float switch, the macerator starts. If the water level drops below the switch's trigger point, the macerator stops.
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Impeller: This component spins at high speed using electrical energy, generating power to lift and pump wastewater.
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Stainless Steel Blades: Located at the top of the impeller, these blades spin synchronously with the impeller, grinding and liquefying solid waste.
The working principle is simple:
- After you flushed the toilet, water and solid waste flow into the macerator pump. The rising water level triggers the float switch, starting the impeller. The impeller spins rapidly, driving the blades to grind and liquefy the waste. The impeller also converts electrical energy into kinetic energy, pumping the wastewater upward through small pipes and into the main sewage line or septic tank.
- Once the water level drops and no longer triggers the float switch, the macerator stops.
II. Macerator FAQs
- After one flush, the pump stops and restarts multiple times. Is this normal?
Answer: Yes. Typically, a macerator cannot pump out all the water from a single toilet flush in one go. The macerator may cycle 3-4 times to fully clear it. This is completely normal, so no need for concern.However, if the pump pulses more than 10 times without stopping, check if the check valve is installed correctly or if connected fixtures (e.g., sinks/showers) are continuously draining.
- I only hear the pump pulsing but no grinding sound. Is that normal?
Answer: Yes. The impeller drives the blades to rotate synchronously, which means the grinding and pumping happen simultaneously, so it's normal not to hear a grinding noise.
- How far can the pump push wastewater?
Answer: SNFLEX can pump wastewater up to 29 feet vertically and 295 feet horizontally, easily meeting most needs.
- If the microswirtch is faulty, how long before the pump stops working?
Answer: If the microswitch is faulty, the impeller won't activate, and there will be no grinding or pumping.
III. Common Troubleshooting
- Pump Keeps Running:
1) A macerator cannot pump out all the water from a single toilet flush in one go. The macerator may cycle 3-4 times to fully clear it.
2) If the pump pulses more than 10 times without stopping, check if the check valve is installed correctly or if connected fixtures (e.g., sinks/showers) are continuously draining.
3) Please provide a clear video showing the issue, including the toilet flushing process, macerator pump operation after flushing, and the pipeline installation and distribution to assist with the assessment.
- Pump Stops Working:
Please pay close attention to any sounds or signs of the macerator running.
1) If you hear a low buzzing sound: It means the blades or impeller are jammed.
You can attempt cleaning it by disconnecting power, turn off the switch on the drain pipe, empty the sewage, unscrew the maintenance panel, and removing any debris that may be tangled around the blades.
TIP 1 - There is a maintenance panel(the circled part in the picture below) on the macerator top for easy access and cleaning. You can open it by unscrewing the 4 screws indicated by the arrows. 
TIP 2 - To prevent extra strain on the macerator, avoid introducing foreign objects. If connected to a sink or shower, be mindful of hair entering.
TIP 3 - If you don't have any maintenance experience, I suggest contacting us with a clear video showing the issue for further assistance!
2) If there’s no sound at all, confirm the power connection. If it's normal, the switch or macerator may need replacement. Please provide:
👉 Your order number.
👉 The platform you purchased from.
👉 A clear video showing the issue, including the flushing process, macerator pump operation after flushing, and the pipeline installation and distribution.
IV. Conclusion
This article explains how the SNFLEX macerating toilet works and addresses common issues and troubleshooting tips. If your issue isn't resolved here, feel free to leave a comment below with any further questions. We'll get back to you as soon as possible!