Installing a Saniflo system can seem like a big task, and you might be thinking it’s out of your depth. You would be wrong! Saniflo systems are not complex to install, and it can actually only take you a couple of hours, if done correctly.

In this guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to successfully install a Saniflo system in your bathroom.

But first, what is a Saniflo system?

A saniflo system consists of a macerator, which is a powerful tool complete with a sharp, rotating blade that grinds up waste and pumps it out through a small diameter pipe. Instead of flushing waste downwards, it discharges out the back of the unit.

When the blade begins to turn, it shreds human waste and toilet paper into a fine slurry, which it then mixes with flushing water.

It is commonly used in situations where a traditional sewage system is not available or would be too expensive to install. Saniflo systems are typically used in residential and commercial applications.

Toilet examples

This guide will cover the following:

  • Gather Your Equipment
  • Install The Discharge Pipe
  • Connect Your Water Supply
  • Connect To Your Power Supply
  • Install The Macerator
  • Vent The System

Gather Your Equipment

Before you make a start on installing your Saniflo system, you’ll need to gather all the necessary equipment needed. You don’t need a large amount of equipment, but the following is a list of absolute essentials you will need, to get the job done.

What you will need:

  • A Saniflo Upflush Toilet
  • A discharge pipe
  • An available water supply
  • A source of electricity
  • A clamp
  • A venting system

Once all your equipment has been gathered, you can start the installation process!

Install The Discharge Pipe

Install the discharge pipe

The first thing you need to do is cut into your home’s soil stack and install a Y-connector to accommodate your discharge pipe. Use a Y-connector instead of a T-connector as a T-connector will be too abrupt of an angle for the fluids being introduced into the line.

If your installation includes a concealed macerator pump, make sure that there is approximately 12 inches of space behind the framing.

Connect Your Water Supply

Connect your water supply

The next step in installing a Saniflo system is to connect your water supply. This water supply can come from any already existing water supply. For example, from a sink, a bathroom on the other side of the wall, or something similar. Add an adapter to your water line, screw in a tap and connect.

Always use cold water for toilet installations.

Connect To Your Power Supply

Connect power supply to toilet

Since the Saniflo pump is operated electrically, it’ll need to be hooked up to a power supply. A 15-amp electrical circuit is recommended for this job. As this electric power will be in a wet environment, the circuit will need to be protected with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).

Install The Macerator

Install the macerator

Make sure that there is no water running when approaching this next step in the installation process. And unplug any sump pumps in the area.

It’s now time to prepare your macerator for installation. Start by installing the included discharge elbow, which has a non-return valve already built into it. Secure the discharge elbow with a clamp, you’ll want to press down and twist, to make sure the elbow is correctly seated.

Ensure the discharge pipe is at least 12 inches from the floor and rises at a rate of ¼ per foot towards the soil stack. Most Saniflo units can use ¾ piping.

Vent The System

Venting of system

This is the last step in the Saniflo installation process, venting the system and attaching the toilet. You can vent the system anywhere you choose, but it needs to have an adequate airflow and must align with your local building code.

You’ll need to connect the macerators pump into your home’s vent system, using PVC pipes. Remember to ensure to insulate any piping that is vulnerable to freeze. Make sure each piece of PVC piping is cleaned, primed and glued ready to be connected.

Now you can start putting it together.

  • Take your accordion connector, and attach onto the vent hole’s rim. Create a 1 ½ inch PVC vent line at the accordion connector and finish the vent like by tightening the connection
  • Insert the breather opening cap and cover with the air vent cover
  • Centre the unit. Making sure it’s in an area that is 3 feet wide and a space of at least 1 inch between the wall and the back of the tank
  • Attach the toilet to the macerator and secure macerator into the floor
  • Attach the tank to the toilet
  • Hand tighten water supply line to the toilet
  • Plug in the macerator pump

And just like that, you have successfully installed a Saniflo unit in your bathroom.

Free Advice

If you’re considering installing a Saniflo system, try visiting our other blogs and step-by-step guides for any extra information and longer, more specific help on some of these topics.

For any free advice regarding pumps, showers and plumbing, ring our dedicated experts on 0800 112 3134 or 0333 577 3134.
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