Last Updated on April 11, 2023 by acechapman
An upflush is a toilet that has a macerator inside a small, compact tank. It sits behind the toilet bowl. A small cutting blade is part of the macerator that activates automatically when you pull the lever. The blade rotates to transform solid waste into a uniform liquid solution. The macerator’s pump eventually discharges the waste and the tank is ready for use. Despite the numerous upflush toilet problems that some users may experience, they have many advantages.
Another benefit is the toilet’s ease of installation. You can place your new upflush toilet in any location, even the attic or basement. Additionally, upflush toilets can be easily installed and maintained for a low cost. These toilets can be easily moved and can take up the same amount of floor space as regular toilets.
How To Solve Common Upflush Toilet Problems
You should be aware that buying an upflush toilet will bring you a lot of challenges. This guide outlines the problems and possible solutions.
Foul Smell
When used for long periods, upflush toilets can produce a foul odor. After a time, limescale can form in the macerator tanks. The macerator tank is low in water so limescale and solid waste can form. This can lead to an unpleasant odor.
Solution
If you are experiencing a foul smell coming from your upflush toilet, there are a few steps you can take to try to resolve the issue:
- Check the gasket seal around the base of the toilet. If the seal is damaged or not properly seated, it could be causing a leak and contribute to the foul smell.
- Check the sewage pump for any blockages or clogs. If the pump is not functioning correctly, it can cause waste to accumulate and produce a foul smell.
- Check the vent pipe that runs from the toilet to the sewer line. Make sure it is clear and not obstructed.
- Check the toilet bowl for any cracks or damage. If the bowl is damaged, it could cause leaks and contribute to the foul smell.
- If you have recently installed the upflush toilet, it is possible that the system may need to be “broken in.” This process involves using the toilet several times to allow the system to properly adjust and function correctly.
Clogging
Clogging is another common problem for upflush toilets. They are not equipped to handle human waste, urine, or toilet paper. The macerator tank will eventually clog if any other substance is introduced. It is possible for the macerator pump to get stuck during this process. The toilet may flush multiple times if either the pump or the macerator shredder malfunction. It can be very difficult to stop.
Debris can also block the discharge pipe of the tank, causing the pump to run indefinitely without emptying the macerator tanks. If wastewater is coming out of the drains in bathrooms that have an upflush toilet, it can indicate that the tank has become clogged.
Solutions
The cause of the blockage will determine the feasibility of finding a solution. These solutions could include:
- An upflush unit can be purchased that has a grader built into the macerator. The grader can be used to remove any hard objects that might clog your toilet.
- If your toilet flushes frequently, unplug it. Then, lift the macerator tank lid and use tongs or other pliers to remove any foreign objects manually. For inspection and maintenance, remove any foreign material from the pump.
- Avoid flushing large or non-biodegradable items down the toilet, as these can cause clogs in the system.
- Try using a toilet auger to clear any blockages in the pipes.
- It is best to call a plumber if the debris has become stuck in the tank’s drain pipe. A blockage can also occur if the tank is exposed to extremely low temperatures. You should wait for the daily temperature to rise in such cases.
- If the pump stops working suddenly and the wastewater is flowing back into your bathroom drains, it’s worth checking if the power outlet has tripped.
Excessive vibration and noise
Upflush toilets are prone to noise and vibration. Disintegrable foreign debris, which then impedes the blade’s movement, is the main culprit.
Solution
It would be best if you first disconnected the power cable from the pump to cut off its power supply. Then, remove the lid from the macerator tank to inspect it. Clear the macerator if it is blocked after checking it. You will need to use thin-nosed, flexible pliers to turn your macerator blade clockwise and remove any foreign objects.
It will also help to make sure the toilet is properly anchored to the floor. If it is not securely anchored, it can cause excessive vibration and noise when in use.
The Macerator Pump Continues to Fire at Random Intervals
If you own an upflush toilet and the macerator pump keeps randomly starting, it is possible that such problems will occur. A defective micro-switch can usually cause this problem. The rubber membrane that activates the switch may be defective. If the membrane is damaged, it can then cause waste to enter the micro-switch. Thus, causing disruptions in its normal function.
Solutions
When debris is caught between the floor and the micro-switch, a micro-switch may become not functional. The micro-switch will not function properly if the macerator tank has become full. To solve the problem, first, empty the tank and clean out any debris. To ensure that the pump is working properly, turn off the power supply and restart it.
You should replace the rubber membrane with the micro-switch if it shows any damage.
The Macerator Pump Foaming from Vent
Macerator foaming is another common problem in upflush toilets. Bleach and cleaning detergents usually cause this issue.
Solutions
First, replace the membrane protecting the micro-switch. The membrane can become loose over time as the rubber wears down. If the solution does not work, replace the whole micro-switch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
Are upflush toilets durable?
Today’s upflush toilets are generally quite durable and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. These types of toilets use a sewage ejector pump to grind up and flush away waste, which means that they have fewer moving parts than a traditional gravity-fed toilet. This can make them less prone to wear and tear and can help extend their lifespan.
However, as with any plumbing system, it is important to maintain your upflush toilet properly in order to ensure its long-term durability. This may include regularly checking and cleaning the sewage ejector pump, as well as any other components of the toilet.
Do you need extra space for an upflush toilet on a bathroom floor
Not necessarily. Because the macerator tank is located behind the toilet bowl, an average upflush toilet takes up about the same amount of floor space as a regular one. However, it is also a good idea to allow for additional space around the toilet for maintenance and repair purposes.
Is there a smell from an upflush toilet?
Macerating toilets are designed to be as odorless as possible. However, it is possible that you may notice a slight smell from an upflush toilet, especially if the sewage ejector pump is not working properly. If you notice a strong or unpleasant smell coming from your upflush toilet, it is a good idea to check the pump and any other components to make sure that everything is functioning correctly.
You may also want to consider cleaning the toilet and the pump regularly to help reduce any odors. In general, however, upflush toilets are relatively low-maintenance and should not produce any significant odors when used and maintained properly.
Wrapping up
This guide should have helped you to understand your upflush toilet. Thus, giving you the knowledge to deal with any potential upflush toilet problems. We welcome your comments and suggestions in the comment section below.
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