As a Saniflo repair company, we’ve seen first-hand how Saniflo systems perform over time. The simple answer is that, yes, they can be a very good and reliable solution when traditional plumbing isn’t practical – provided they are correctly installed, used properly and given a little routine care.
Some customers install one for a garage conversion and forget about it for years, while others value the flexibility of adding facilities somewhere conventional drainage would be difficult or expensive.
Are Saniflo Toilets Good?
Saniflo macerators, also known as upflush or macerating toilets, can be game-changing when it comes to trickier plumbing installations. They work differently from a traditional toilet, so whether one is right for you depends on where it will be installed, how heavily it will be used and what conventional plumbing alternatives are available.
The Pros:
- Versatility: One of the biggest strengths of a Saniflo is flexibility. They’re ideal for basements, garages, loft conversions and locations where installing traditional drainage would involve major building work.
- Less disruptive installation: A Saniflo can avoid major excavation or the installation of large conventional soil pipes. It must still be installed correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements.
- Cost-Effective: In some cases, Saniflo toilets can save you money on installation costs. Forget about the costly floor digs and extensive pipe installations; Saniflo keeps your hard-earned cash where it belongs – in your pocket.
- Space-Saving: Saniflo toilets are ideal for homes with limited space. The saniCOMPACT in particular is a one piece fixture that’s been designed to fit into a renovated closet .
- Reliable Performance: When properly installed and looked after, Saniflo toilets can provide years of reliable performance. We regularly see older units still running well after many years of use.
The Cons:
- Noise: Saniflo toilets can be a bit noisy, thanks to their waste-grinding macerator. However, newer models and insulation can help reduce the racket. Heres a post we did on Saniflos Quiet range.
- Maintenance: Saniflo toilets are fairly low maintenance, but like anything mechanical they still need a bit of care. Cleaning, descaling and dealing with unusual noises early can help avoid bigger problems later on. If you live in a hard water area, limescale build-up may mean a bit more maintenance over time.
- Initial Cost: It’s a tad higher than your run-of-the-mill toilet, but don’t let that scare you off just yet. You might save on installation expenses.
- Electricity Dependency: Saniflo toilets have a little secret – they’re electric. That macerator pump needs power to operate, so during a power cut the system won’t function until electricity is restored.
Are Saniflo toilets reliable?
In our experience, a correctly installed and maintained Saniflo can provide years — and often decades — of reliable service. We regularly attend older units that are still going strong, but we also see systems that have developed recurring problems because the original installation wasn’t quite right.
Incorrect pipework, poor positioning or a lack of access for maintenance can unfairly give the unit itself a bad reputation. Reliability therefore depends not only on the machine, but also on the quality of the installation, regular maintenance and using the system as intended.
Is a Saniflo right for you?
When is a Saniflo a good choice?
A Saniflo can be an excellent option when adding conventional drainage would be difficult, disruptive or expensive. They are particularly useful for garages, loft conversions, basements, extensions and other spaces located away from the main soil pipe. They can also work well where space is limited or where digging through floors and carrying out major building work would make a traditional installation impractical.
When might a traditional toilet be better?
If a conventional gravity-fed toilet can be installed easily, it will usually be the simpler option. A domestic Saniflo model may also be less suitable for very heavy or continuous use unless a suitable commercial unit has been specified. It may not be ideal in properties that regularly experience power cuts or locations where the unit cannot remain accessible for servicing. The quality of the installation matters enormously, so the cheapest or quickest installation is not always the best long-term choice.
So, are Saniflo toilets good?
If you’re stuck in a plumbing pickle and need a versatile, cost-effective option, a Saniflo can be an excellent solution where traditional drainage isn’t practical. They do make some noise, need occasional maintenance and rely on electricity, but those limitations are often outweighed by the flexibility they provide.
Before welcoming one into your home, consider where it will be installed, how it will be used and whether conventional drainage is realistically available. With the right model, a correct installation and proper care, a Saniflo can provide many years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About Saniflo Toilets
The suitability of a Saniflo toilet depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you have additional questions or need personalised advice, Call us on 0800 292 2542 for expert guidance.
What is a Saniflo toilet, and how does it work?
A Saniflo, also known as an upflush or macerating toilet, is a plumbing fixture designed to handle waste in locations where traditional gravity-based plumbing is challenging. It works by using a macerator to grind waste into a fine slurry, which is then pumped away through a small-diameter pipe to connect with the main sewage or septic system.
Where can I install a Saniflo?
Saniflo macerators are versatile and can be installed in various locations, including basements, attics, garages, and even small bathrooms where traditional plumbing is impractical or costly. They are also suitable for home extensions and renovations.
Are Saniflo toilets noisy during operation?
Saniflo macerators can be noisier than traditional toilets because of the macerator’s grinding and pumping action. However, some newer models are designed to be quieter, and you can also take steps to minimize noise, such as insulating the area around the unit.
Do Saniflo toilets require special maintenance?
Saniflo toilets are fairly low maintenance, but like anything mechanical they still benefit from a bit of upkeep. Maintenance usually involves cleaning, descaling and keeping an eye out for unusual noises or signs of a blockage. If you live in a hard water area, limescale build-up may mean a bit more maintenance over time. Proper care can help keep your Saniflo running smoothly for years to come.
Can I use a Saniflo toilet as my primary bathroom toilet?
While Saniflo toilets are effective, they may not be the ideal choice for a primary bathroom toilet in a high-traffic household. Are saniflo toilets good for you? They are well-suited for secondary bathrooms, guest bathrooms, or in situations where traditional plumbing is impractical.
Do Saniflo toilets use more water than traditional toilets?
Saniflo toilets are available in models that are designed to be water-efficient. Some models use less water per flush than older traditional toilets, which can help conserve water and reduce your utility bills.
Are Saniflos expensive to purchase and install?
The upfront cost of a Saniflo can be higher than that of a traditional toilet. However, you may save money on installation costs because you won’t need extensive plumbing work. The overall cost depends on the specific model and installation requirements.
What should I do in case of a power outage?
Saniflo toilets rely on electricity to operate the macerator pump. In case of a power outage, the toilet may not function. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan for toilet use during power outages, such as a portable toilet or access to another restroom.
Are Saniflo toilets environmentally friendly?
Saniflos can be environmentally friendly if you choose a model with water-saving features. Their ability to retrofit into existing spaces without major construction can also reduce the environmental impact associated with extensive plumbing renovations.
Can I install a Saniflo myself, or do I need a professional plumber?
While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to install a Saniflo themselves, it’s recommended to hire a professional plumber, especially if you’re not experienced with plumbing work. A plumber can ensure proper installation and help you avoid potential issues.