Macerator toilet systems are a fantastic solution for bathrooms in spaces where traditional plumbing isn’t feasible. Saniflo, the leading brand in this category, allows you to install a toilet in almost any room with access to a waste disposal pipe. Unlike standard toilets, Saniflo systems feature a built-in macerator that grinds solid waste into a slurry, making it easy to pump through narrow pipes.
While Saniflo toilets offer great flexibility, their unique design means that blockages require a different approach. A plunger, which works well for regular toilets, can actually make things worse – potentially damaging the macerator and leading to costly repairs.
So, how do you safely and effectively unblock a Saniflo toilet? In this guide, our expert plumbers walk you through the best methods for clearing a blockage, along with essential maintenance tips and common mistakes to avoid.
How Do I Unblock A Saniflo Toilet?
There are several problems a Saniflo Toilet can incur, but the most common issue is their ability to clog easily when synthetic materials like sanitary products, nappies, wet wipes, or excessive loo paper are flushed. Unlike standard toilets, Saniflo systems require a specific approach to clearing blockages without damaging the macerator. Here’s how our expert plumbers tackle the job:
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Step 1: Prioritise Safety
Before starting, take the necessary precautions:
- Wear protective rubber gloves and a mask to prevent direct contact with waste.
- Disconnect the power supply to the Saniflo system to avoid any electrical hazards.
- Shut off the water supply – look for the small lever near the back of the toilet tank and turn it off.
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Step 2: Drain Excess Water
Once the water is off, remove as much standing water as possible:
- Place a bucket under the pipe connected to the top of the Saniflo unit.
- Use a wrench to loosen the pipes, allowing any residual water to drain into the bucket.
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Step 3: Locate And Clear The Blockage
With the system drained, you can now check for and remove the blockage:
- Detach the pipes and inspect them for obstructions. Use warm water or a plumbing snake (flexible auger) to clear any debris.
- Unscrew the base of the Saniflo unit and locate the connector between the toilet and the macerator. Pinch the metal clip to loosen it.
- Carefully remove the Saniflo unit from the back of the toilet, mopping up any residual water.
- If the blockage is in the connector at the back of the toilet, flush it through with warm water.
- If debris is lodged in the Saniflo unit’s waste entry point, rinse it with warm water until clear.
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Step 4: Reassemble And Test
Once all blockages are cleared:
- Reassemble the Saniflo unit and reconnect the pipes.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Restore power to the system.
- Wait for the toilet tank to refill before testing with a flush.
Important note: Disassembling your Saniflo system may void its warranty. If your unit is still under warranty or you're unsure about handling the issue yourself, it’s best to call a professional. Our team at Maintracts Services has the expertise to get your system back in working order safely and efficiently. Contact us today.
Preventative Tips
When it comes to Saniflo systems, prevention is always better than cure! The best way to avoid blockages is by following these simple but crucial steps:
- Flush only what’s necessary – Stick to human waste and minimal toilet paper. Never flush wet wipes, nappies, sanitary products, or any synthetic materials.
- Educate everyone in the household – Make sure all family members, guests, or tenants understand what can and can’t go down the toilet. If you own a rental property, provide clear guidance in marketing materials and display signage near the toilet to prevent misuse. Miscommunication is a common issue in rentals – landlords often blame tenants, and tenants deny responsibility. Without proof, it becomes a grey area, so prevention is key.
- Regularly clean the macerator – Routine maintenance can help reduce buildup and keep the system running efficiently.
- Consider alternatives for shared or high-traffic toilets – If the toilet is in a rental or commercial property where misuse is more likely, you may want to explore alternative systems that can better handle heavy use.
How To Clean And Descale A Saniflo System
While descaling won’t necessarily prevent blockages, it helps maintain hygiene and reduces unpleasant odours.
Saniflo offers a specialist descaler designed to break down limescale and grime inside the system. A bottle costs around £30-£40 and provides two uses.
How to use it:
- 1) Pour the recommended amount of descaler directly into the toilet.
- 2) Let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the solution to work through the unit.
- 3) Flush the toilet to rinse the system.
It’s a simple process that doesn’t require an engineer, making it an easy maintenance task for homeowners.
Does descaling really make a difference?
While it won’t drastically extend the life of your Saniflo system, it does help keep it cleaner and can reduce odours. Macerator toilets can sometimes develop a smell even when functioning properly, so regular descaling may help keep things fresh.
Saniflo Do’s And Don’ts
When it comes to Saniflo systems, prevention is always better than cure! The best way to avoid blockages is by following these simple but crucial steps:
DO’S:
- Flush only human waste and minimal toilet paper – Anything else can clog the macerator.
- Regularly clean and descale the system – Helps maintain hygiene and reduces odours.
- Educate household members and tenants – Ensure everyone knows what should and shouldn’t be flushed.
- Turn off power and water before maintenance – Prevents damage and ensures safety.
- Call a professional for serious issues – If a blockage persists, avoid DIY repairs that could cause further damage.
DON’TS
- Never flush wet wipes, nappies, sanitary products, or synthetic materials – These can cause serious blockages.
- Don’t use a plunger – It can damage the macerator rather than fix the issue.
- Educate household members and tenants – Ensure everyone knows what should and shouldn’t be flushed.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach – These can degrade the unit’s internal components.
- Don’t overload the system – Too much toilet paper at once can cause a blockage.
- Never disassemble the unit if it’s under warranty – This can void your warranty and lead to costly repairs.
Hopefully, by following these simple guidelines, you will keep your Saniflo toilet running smoothly and avoid necessary Saniflo macerator repairs! However, if you do find that you are having issues and you are based in our service area, please do not hesitate to contact the Maintracts team for speedy and efficient resolution.
Oliver Osmore has been part of Maintracts Services since 2001, following in his father’s footsteps. As Managing Director, he ensures the company runs smoothly, supports customers and engineers, and thrives on solving complex problems others can’t. Highly organised and approachable, Oliver works closely with customers to deliver tailored solutions, drawing on his extensive experience in plumbing, heating, and electrical services to resolve enquiries efficiently.
Since 1974, Maintracts Services has built a reputation for high-quality installation, maintenance, and repairs. Under Oliver’s leadership, the company remains committed to professionalism, safety, and customer satisfaction.
