Saniflo System – How to Choose a Macerating Toilet

A Saniflo macerator toilet provides unmatched flexibility in bathroom design, especially for properties with limited plumbing infrastructure. Whether you’re looking for a toilet system for a basement, loft, or annex, Saniflo offers a legal, efficient, and hygienic solution. With proper maintenance, these systems offer long-term value and performance, making them a top choice for UK homeowners seeking practical bathroom solutions.

What is a Saniflo Toilet?

A Saniflo toilet system is a type of macerating toilet that features a toilet with a built-in grinder or macerating pump system. Unlike traditional toilets that rely on gravity to move waste through large-diameter pipes, Saniflo systems grind solid waste into a slurry and pump it through narrow pipework to the main soil stack. This makes them the ideal alternative to traditional toilet systems, especially in areas below the sewer line or without direct access to conventional plumbing.

How Does a Saniflo Toilet Work?

A Saniflo macerator works using high-speed rotating blades that liquefy waste. Once flushed, Waste and water enter the macerator chamber. After a flush, the system transfers human waste and toilet paper to the blade. It macerates the material into smaller particles. Then, the waste flows through a pipe, much smaller than the one a conventional toilet has. Once the blade completes the macerating process, the slurry goes into the toilet tank. It remains there until it reaches a certain level, enough to activate the float switch.

Macerator toilets comprise a few principal parts:

• Blade
• Float Switch
• Microswitch
• Impeller

This setup enables the installation of toilets in loft conversions, garden rooms, garages, and basement bathrooms, essentially, anywhere that lacks a traditional soil pipe. Professional Saniflo installers can give you a bit more information on how those units operate and which one might be the best fit for your home?

The Best Macerator Toilet Systems in the UK

There are various types of saniflo toilets and they all have distinct features. Modern units like the Saniflo SaniCompact and SaniAccess 3 are designed for quieter operation. When installed correctly with anti-vibration mounts and soundproof casings, many models produce less than 50 decibels during operation, making them some of the quietest macerator toilet systems available. Below, we’re going to review the best and most popular choices that you should definitely consider before buying.

• SaniPLUS – SaniPLUS is the most favoured macerator type for domestic properties. It’s relatively easy to install, quiet, powerful and comes with a 2-year warranty. SaniPLUS toilets are very compact, which makes them suitable for smaller spaces. The best feature of this system is that it takes care of the waste from your toilet, bidet, sink and shower. The carbon filter prevents unwanted clogs.
• SaniBEST Pro – SaniBEST Pro is an easy to install, heavy-duty, upflush toilet system, suitable for both domestic and commercial properties. It’s a powerful solution designed to handle flushing of waste and even sanitary products. SaniBEST Pro has a single-lever flush mechanism and uses 1.6 gallons of water per flush, which is relatively good for a toilet of this rank.
• SaniPACK Pro – Similar to the SaniBEST Pro model, this macerator toilet system is suitable for both domestic and commercial properties. It’s great to use with a wall hung toilet and therefore the perfect choice for those of us who’d like to have a very discreet and modern toilet design or simply save up some space. It’s the ideal solution for a complete shower room, including a WC, basin, bidet and shower.
• SaniCOMPACT – Slimline design for cloakrooms. This is a highly efficient saniflo toilet has an electrical, dual flush mechanism using 1 gallon of water for a half flush and 1.28 gallons of water per full flush. This makes it the most water-efficient saniflo model on the market. One thing though, there should be an electrical outlet nearby. As the name suggests, the SaniCOMPACT macerator is extremely small and could fit almost anywhere. There is no external water tank, and the pump and grinder are concealed under the base of the toilet. It’s more appropriate for domestic properties. The system comes with a 2-year guarantee, but if you register with Saniflo, they could increase it up to 3 years. This unit is more complex and could be difficult to install, so it’s best to leave the task to the professionals. They can ensure that everything is properly done and avoid future issues.
• SaniSTAR – SaniSTAR macerators have an efficient macerator pump and are most suitable when water pressure is low. These toilet systems are wall-hung, which, similar to SaniCOMPACT, makes them a perfect option for smaller bathrooms or unconventional spaces. The unit can be more expensive than the rest of the Saniflo systems, though. The electrical flush mechanism minimises water consumption. In addition, SaniSTAR is easy to install and maintain.
• SaniGRIND Pro – SaniGRIND Pro toilet systems have a powerful grinder mechanism and that makes it great for commercial sites. As a benefit, you could fit the unit 25 feet below the sewage pipeline, and up to 150 feet from any soil stack. SaniGRIND Pro’s vent system complies with the latest building regulations and standards.

Saniflo Pros and Cons

There are advantages and disadvantages you should take into consideration before choosing a Saniflo toilet for your private or commercial property. Here’s a list of positives we’ve gathered:

• They’re easier to install – There is no need to break floors, drill holes, or anything along those lines. The macerator is an upflush system, so you won’t need to make major changes to your plumbing pipework. This ensures that the installation is quick and at a low cost.
• You can install a macerator anywhere in the property – Given the way Saniflo systems work, an engineer could easily fit it wherever you want.
• Both energy-saving and water-efficient – Ideal for those of us who are environmentally cautious.
• A 2-year warranty – You can get an extended warranty if you register with the manufacturer. 
• Compact and discreet – With saniflo, you can create a contemporary, minimalistic bathroom design.
• Durable – If properly maintained, macerator systems could last as long as traditional toilets.

Some negatives we’ve determined are:

• Pricey – Macerator toilet systems are usually more expensive, so carefully consider both the advantages and disadvantages.
• Noisy – Saniflo systems are noisier than conventional toilets.
• Unusable if the power goes out – Since most macerators operate with an electrical flush mechanism, you won’t be able to use it if there is a power outage.
• Water pressure issues – The lower water pressure, sometimes, could leave waste behind, which causes a foul odour.
• Prone to blockages – More likely to get clogged, when it comes to unblocking a toilet, compared to a regular loo.

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Saniflo Toilet?

The life expectancy of a Saniflo toilet is typically 10 to 15 years, depending on usage and maintenance. With regular cleaning, proper installation, and avoidance of inappropriate items (such as wipes or sanitary products), a Saniflo toilet system can operate efficiently for well over a decade. Periodic servicing and the use of Saniflo-approved descaler will also help extend its lifespan.

What Maintenance Does a Saniflo Need?

A Saniflo toilet system requires regular maintenance to ensure reliable performance and longevity. Here’s what it needs:

• Descaling: Use a Saniflo-approved descaler every 3-6 months to prevent limescale build-up on the internal components.
• Avoid Blockages: Never flush wipes, sanitary products, or grease down the toilet, as these can clog the macerator.
• Rinse with Clean Water: Occasionally flush the system with clean water to keep the pump and blades clear.
• Check for Leaks or Odours: Inspect seals and connections regularly for any signs of wear or unpleasant smells.
• Annual Servicing: For heavily used systems, an annual check-up by a qualified engineer is recommended.

Proper care will significantly extend the lifespan of your Saniflo toilet and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

Building Regulations

In most cases, you won’t face any restrictions on installing a macerator toilet at your property. And often, you won’t need a permit. You should, however, follow the relevant building regulations for the soil stacks and vent pipes. A professional builder or plumber knows about the latest updates and can give you adequate advice. 

The diameter of your waste pipe shouldn’t exceed the right dimensions. There can’t be any obstructions in the way of the waste material. Consider sound protection to restrict the loud noise. It’s unpleasant not just for you, but also for your neighbours.

How Much Does Saniflo Cost?

With all the benefits it has, you might ask yourself how much does a Saniflo toilet cost. The straight answer is that it depends on the type, size and pump capacity. You can buy and install a smaller, less powerful macerator to service only your toilet, or a bigger, more powerful one for your entire bathroom. Price may start from around £260 for a basic system to about £500 for a more complex and powerful one. The best thing is that you get a basic 2-year guarantee and many more benefits included within the initial cost.

Saniflo Installation Cost

Most Saniflo systems are not too difficult to install. Still, if you don’t feel up to the challenge, professional plumbers can do the task for you. You should consider the building regulations, and this might prove challenging. 

Takeaways

There are a few key things to keep in mind when deciding whether to switch to a Saniflo toilet system. All those questions can help you choose the best option for your home and contribute to your peace of mind.

• What is the most suitable macerator for your needs;
• What pros and cons do Saniflo toilets offer;
• What are the building regulations and laws;
• What’s the product price and installation cost;
• Would you install it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you;

Saniflo System – How to Choose a Macerating Toilet

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