Upflush or macerating toilets are a type of toilet that is becoming increasingly popular. They use less water than traditional toilets and consume minimal power. So if you’re concerned about the environment, an upflush might be for you. But before deciding on installing one, it is important to understand the pros and cons of upflush toilets.
In this article, we shall outline the benefits as well as the drawbacks of upflush toilets. We shall also talk about how you can easily install one at home.
Pros (Benefits) of upflush toilets
1. They are water efficient
Upflush toilets use a lot less water than standard flush toilets so they can save you money in the long run.
How much less? Well, an upflush toilet can use as little as 1 gallon per flush while a standard toilet could need anywhere from 3-6 gallons of water.
This is because the water level in the toilet is higher, which means you use less water for each flush. Actually, you can save 2-3 gallons every time you use the toilet.
2. Cost of upflush toilet and installation
You may be able to install an upflush toilet on your own without professional help because it sits on top of any floor surface without the need to install new plumbing.
If you are not a hands-on person, you can hire a plumber, and still, the cost of the installation will be lower than that of a conventional toilet.
You will probably pay something between $200 and $300 for installation, which is just a fraction of installing a traditional toilet.
3. Save space
These toilets do not take up a lot of space like other types of toilets.
This is because they do not require extra plumbing fixtures like drain pipes that take up space in the bathroom.
Also, they do not need a large holding tank since they use a vent pipe to push waste into the main sewer system.
4. They are portable
Macerating toilets are completely portable since they don’t need to be connected to drain pipes or a septic system or sewer connection.
This means that you can move with them easily from one place to another, which makes them an ideal solution if you live in an apartment, condo, houseboat, camping trailer, or other settings where there isn’t access to plumbing.
5. Easy to use
Upflush toilets can be very helpful for people with disabilities who may have trouble reaching down into a traditional toilet and cleaning it themselves.
Also, it is easier for people with mobility problems to use these toilets since there isn’t any step stool required like with traditional flush models.
6. Keeps clean
With these toilets, the water pressure from below helps to create a powerful spray that cleans the bowl and trap-way so it is easier to keep it clean.
In addition, the toilet bowl also keeps clean due to the high water line and the lack of contact with flushed materials.
See also: Common macerating toilet problems you should know
Cons (Disadvantages) of upflush or macerating toiletsÂ
1.They need power to function
Upflush toilets may be more convenient to use than conventional ones since they don’t need tanks or water lines but they need to be power to work.
They may be a disadvantage because you cannot use them without electricity or a reliable source of power.
2. High water pressure
Upflush toilets have a unique design in that instead of the waste going into a pipe, it is discharged by water pressure from the tank and flushed out. But this means that they need high water pressure to function, which is not always available.
3. Maintenance
A lot of people are not aware that upflush toilets have an important maintenance need.
This is because they do not use a traditional flush system but instead rely on water pressure to work properly.
The water in the tank must be pumped upwards into the toilet bowl periodically to keep it running smoothly and free of blockages.
Thus, the tanks need frequent refilling failure to which the toilet might clog or malfunction and cost more money to repair.
4. Hard to reach corners
Although the toilet is easy to clean, it can be difficult to reach all corners when cleaning.
Small particles that get stuck in hard-to-reach areas can be difficult to clean. This is due to the fact the toilet is often fixed under tight spaces makes where you cannot easily get behind or under to clean.
See also: How to keep bathroom smelling fresh naturally
FAQ about the pros and cons of upflush toilets
Q1. Do Upflush toilets smell?
If you have a question about whether or not your upflush toilet smells, the answer is likely yes.
There is no doubt that all toilets will emit at least some odor but a macerator toilet will stink due to limescale build-up or the presence of human waste in the water.
The solution is to ensure the toilet is flushed properly after use and descaling regularly to remove limescale.
Q2. Do you need to vent an Upflush toilet?
Yes, it is important to vent an upflush toilet just like any other plumbing fixture.
Venting the toilet is a simple process that can help to reduce odors and increase performance.
Q3. How much does an Upflush toilet cost?
The average price for a new upflush toilet ranges from $1,000-$5,000. This depends on your specific needs and what features you want in it.
For instance, the SANIFLO Macerating Upflush toilets’ price falls under this range.
If these prices seem too high or outside your budget range, there are other options available to you such as purchasing used toilets or getting help with financing through some companies like Home Depot’s “Flexible Payment”.
Q4. How long does an upflush toilet last?
This type of toilet has a long life span. Actually, it can go for up to 15 years before needing a replacement of any mechanical part.
See also: How to dissolve toilet paper clog
Conclusion
The pros and cons of upflush toilet are numerous. It is a reliable option for homeowners who live in areas with hard water or lots of sediment.
It’s also good for people who want to save money on plumbing because it only needs an electric pump that can be installed separately from the tank.
In addition, this type of toilet uses minimal water so it saves money in the long run.
If you are getting ready to install a new bathroom and considering whether or not your home has adequate space for an upflush toilet, read more about their benefits and drawbacks discussed in this article before making your decision.
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