Save Time and Money with Upflush Toilets – All You Need to Know

Are you curious as to what an upflush toilet really is? You aren’t alone. Many people wonder if they need one and what the benefits are.

The answer isn’t straightforward, but we’ll outline the benefits of an upflush toilet and tell you why you may want to consider purchasing one for your bathroom.

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Recent reports from Houzz indicate individuals tend to spend half an hour to one hour daily in the bathroom, which may be why there are reports of bathroom renovations generating a higher rate of return when it comes to home value.

Additionally, renovating a bathroom can create better functionality and allow it to be more user-friendly.

What is an Upflush Toilet?

Upflush toilets (also known as macerating toilets) aren’t new as many European countries have utilized them for years.

Saniflo created the first version of a macerator toilet in 1958 in Western Europe to resolve the issue of tight spaces.

This made it easier to install new bathrooms right below pre-existing lateral lines.

The upflush toilet has gained popularity in North American markets over the past decade. These toilets make it easy for homeowners to add a basement bathroom or add a toilet bowl to other areas where they cannot add pipes or plumbing.

Upflush toilets allow you to establish temporary commodes for lengthy visitors or renters.

You can install an upflush toilet kit in any bathroom without requiring additional pipes or plumbing. Installing this self-contained toilet system on your own is easy and will only take about four hours to complete – even if you are inexperienced.

These toilets are brilliantly simple because they rethink how a toilet functions. They also make it feasible to install new bathrooms economically as an upflush toilet kit is affordable.

How Well Does it Work?

This toilet works in the same manner as a standard toilet. Waste enters the toilet and is removed through the bowl’s flushing action. The difference between the toilets is what happens with the waste upon removal.

A conventional toilet uses downward gravity to flush directly into the pipes and septic tank. Conversely, an upflush toilet system discharges waste out the back of the unit and into a pump containing a macerator tank (garbage disposal system).

Waste is ground and the macerator pump sends it into the PVC piping. Then it goes to the existing stack.

Upflush toilets have a small white macerator pump unit resting on the floor behind the toilet or one that connects to the extension.

This hides your pump behind the wall. If you choose to have it behind the wall, a macerating toilet is indistinguishable from a conventional toilet. All that is required is an electrical outlet.

How Does it Accomplish This?

If you saw standard toilets and upflush toilets side-by-side, you wouldn’t be able to tell them apart. Both contain heavy, large porcelain bowls and a standard seat. Both flush when the lever is pressed and look great with any decor.

The difference is the flush. Traditional toilets flush with the help of gravity. Waste goes down the drain of a gravity toilet, while the upflush toilet discharges the solid waste out the back. Using a pump tank and macerator, an upflush toilet system shreds waste and pumps it out through the stack.

Macerators use a rapid-cutting blade to turn waste into a slurry. The blades automatically spin to grind up solid waste. The macerating pump moves waste. It runs up a ¾-1″ PVC pipe to the main stack. Then the toilet tank empties.

Why You Need One

Upflush toilets are an economical method to renovate a home. These toilets are wonderful when you need a new bathroom but are on a budget and don’t want to spend a great deal of money on it.

Here are the benefits of incorporating these toilets into your bathroom design:

• You can add them anywhere. You can transform unused space or empty closets into a bathroom using a simple and quick process. They also allow you to create a temporary bathroom if your home is being renovated, or if you are caring for an elderly family member.

• They are less expensive. An upflush toilet costs a fraction of traditional toilet installations. You can save over a thousand dollars as opposed to hiring a plumber for a days-long bathroom reno. This becomes an ideal choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

• New bathrooms boost the value of your home. Adding additional full bathrooms can boost your home’s value by over 20%. Unfortunately, the cost of installing a new one can be high. When you install an upflush toilet, you can save time and money.

• You can install it yourself. You can install an upflush toilet in approximately four hours without previous plumbing experience.

• They have a long lifespan. These toilets last for 10-15 years before requiring any replacements.

• They come with a great warranty. Upflush toilets have a one- to three-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Please note that upflush toilets are not composting toilets. While it is easy to confuse the two, the differences are stark.

Composting toilets utilize evaporation and decomposition to address waste while providing the benefits of composting. Upflush toilets are the same as traditional toilets, but they operate on a system that is engineered differently.

Upflush Toilets vs. Traditional Toilets

Feature	Upflush Toilets	Traditional Toilets
Installation Cost	Lower (no excavation needed)	Higher (requires plumbing work)
Installation Time	Hours	Days to weeks
Versatility	Can be installed almost anywhere	Requires existing plumbing
Maintenance	Moderate (pump upkeep)	Low
Water Efficiency	High	Varies by model

Who Should Consider an Upflush Toilet?

1. Homeowners Adding a Bathroom
   Perfect for basement renovations, garage upgrades, or converting unused spaces into bathrooms.
2. Commercial Spaces
   Ideal for offices or businesses needing additional restrooms without disrupting operations.
3. Landlords and Property Managers
   A cost-effective way to add bathrooms to rental properties and improve their value.

How to Choose the Right Upflush Toilet

• Pump Power

Choose a pump strong enough to handle the distance and elevation to your main plumbing line.

• Toilet Style

Options include standard, compact, or one-piece designs to fit your space.

• Noise Levels

Look for quieter models if noise is a concern.

• Ease of Maintenance

Go for systems with accessible macerators for hassle-free cleaning and repairs.

• Budget

Prices range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the model and features.

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Our Top Upflush Toilet Recommendations

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MaceratingFlo 750W Upflush Toilet System

The MaceratingFlo 750W Macerating Toilet System is a powerful upflush toilet designed for basements, garages, additions, and other spaces where traditional gravity plumbing isn’t practical.

Its 750W macerating pump can pump waste vertically up to 36 feet, while the four inlet connections allow you to connect a toilet, sink, shower, or other fixtures to a single system.

The package also includes an extension pipe for added installation flexibility.

Built with durable ceramic, stainless steel, and high-quality polypropylene, this system is designed for long-term reliability.

The soft-close toilet seat and quieter operation also make it more comfortable for everyday use than many competing macerating toilets.

Pros

• Powerful 750W motor with up to 36 ft vertical pumping capability
• Four inlet connections support toilets, sinks, and showers
• Quiet operation compared to many macerating systems
• Soft-close toilet seat adds everyday convenience
• Durable ceramic bowl and stainless steel components
• Good choice for basement bathrooms and remodels

Cons

• Installation is more complex than a standard toilet
• Requires electricity for the macerating pump to operate

If you need a dependable upflush toilet for a basement or bathroom addition, the MaceratingFlo 750W Macerating Toilet System is an excellent choice.

Its powerful pump, multiple fixture connections, quiet performance, and durable construction make it one of the best all-in-one macerating toilet systems for residential installations.

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Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW 1/2 HP, 115VESW Macerating Toilet

The Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW 1/2 HP Macerating Toilet is a premium upflush toilet system built for homeowners who want reliable performance and easy maintenance.

The RazorCut® technology, which efficiently macerates waste before pumping it through small-diameter discharge pipes, making it an excellent solution for basement bathrooms, home additions, and remodeling projects where conventional plumbing isn’t available.

The vitreous china toilet delivers the appearance and comfort of a traditional toilet, while the removable service panel provides convenient access to the cutter assembly for maintenance without disconnecting plumbing.

Although it’s one of the more expensive options on the market, its performance, durability, and serviceability justify the investment.

Pros

• Advanced RazorCut® technology provides efficient waste maceration
• High-quality vitreous china toilet with a traditional appearance
• Removable service panel simplifies maintenance and repairs
• Quiet and dependable operation
• Toilet seat included for a complete installation
• Trusted Liberty Pumps build quality

Cons

• Significantly more expensive than many competing upflush toilets
• Installation may require professional plumbing and electrical work
• Limited product accessories included beyond the toilet system

If you’re looking for a premium macerating toilet with exceptional reliability and easier maintenance, the Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW is one of the best upflush toilets available.

Its innovative RazorCut® technology, durable construction, and service-friendly design make it an excellent long-term investment for basement bathrooms and home renovations.

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Saniflo SaniPLUS Upflush Toilet Kit

The Saniflo SaniPLUS Macerating Upflush Toilet Kit is one of the most trusted upflush toilet systems for adding a full bathroom where conventional plumbing isn’t an option.

Designed to install up to 15 feet below the sewer line or 150 feet away from the main soil stack, it provides a practical solution for basements, garages, guest suites, and home additions.

Powered by a high-speed 3,600 RPM stainless steel macerator, the SaniPLUS efficiently grinds waste into a fine slurry before pumping it through small-diameter discharge pipes.

It can also handle wastewater from a sink, shower, or bathtub, making it ideal for complete bathroom installations.

While it’s one of the priciest systems available, its proven reliability and long-standing reputation make it a favorite among professional plumbers.

Pros

• Installs a complete bathroom below or far from the main sewer line
• High-speed stainless steel macerator delivers reliable performance
• Supports a toilet, sink, shower, bathtub, bidet, or urinal
• Pumps waste up to 12–15 ft vertically and 150 ft horizontally
• Trusted brand with decades of experience in macerating toilet systems
• Backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Premium price compared to many competing upflush systems
• Requires electrical power and proper installation
• Routine maintenance is recommended for long-term performance

The Saniflo SaniPLUS is one of the best upflush toilet systems for homeowners planning a complete basement or remote bathroom installation.

Its powerful macerating pump, multi-fixture compatibility, and proven reliability make it a worthwhile investment for long-term performance and peace of mind.

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Upflush Toilet Installation Tips

Installing an upflush toilet, also known as a macerating toilet, is a practical solution for adding a bathroom in challenging locations like basements, attics, or garages.

While these systems simplify the process compared to traditional plumbing, proper installation is essential for optimal performance.

This guide covers everything you need to know about upflush toilet installation, from preparation to maintenance tips.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather these essential tools and materials:

• Upflush toilet kit (includes toilet, macerator, and pump)
• PVC pipes and fittings
• PVC glue and primer
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Teflon tape
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Access to an electrical outlet (if required)

Step-by-Step Installation Tips

1. Choose the Right Location

• Select a flat, stable surface for the toilet.
• Ensure proximity to a plumbing line for waste disposal and a power outlet if the macerator requires electricity.
• Measure the space to confirm that the toilet and macerator fit comfortably.

2. Plan the Plumbing Route

• Determine the shortest and most direct route to connect the macerator to the main sewage or septic line.
• Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum pumping distance and height.

3. Connect the Toilet to the Macerator

• Attach the toilet outlet to the macerator using the included connector pipe.
• Ensure a secure seal to prevent leaks. Use PVC glue and primer as needed.

4. Connect the Macerator to the Discharge Pipe

• Install the discharge pipe to the macerator’s outlet.
• Use Teflon tape on threaded connections to ensure watertight seals.
• Secure the pipe with brackets or clamps to prevent movement during operation.

5. Vent the System

• Connect the macerator’s vent pipe to an existing vent stack or install a new vent line. Proper ventilation prevents pressure buildup and odors.

6. Set Up the Electrical Connection

• If the macerator requires electricity, connect it to a nearby outlet.
• Use a GFCI outlet for safety, especially in bathrooms.
• Avoid extension cords and ensure the power source meets the manufacturer’s specifications.

7. Test the System

• Flush the toilet and check for leaks at all connections.
• Ensure the macerator operates smoothly, with no unusual noises or vibrations.
• Test multiple flushes to confirm consistent performance.

Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Pipe Slope: Ensure the discharge pipe has the proper slope to facilitate waste flow.
2. Improper Venting: Failing to vent the system can cause odors and poor performance.
3. Loose Connections: Double-check all fittings and seals to prevent leaks.
4. Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines: Always follow the specific instructions for your upflush toilet model.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

• Clean the Macerator Regularly: Use a macerator-safe cleaning solution to prevent clogs and odors.
• Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items: Only flush waste and toilet paper to protect the system.
• Inspect Pipes Periodically: Check for leaks or blockages in the discharge pipe.
• Test the System: Run water through the system occasionally if it’s not used regularly.

When to Hire a Professional

While many DIY enthusiasts can handle upflush toilet installation, certain situations may require professional help:

• Complex plumbing or venting routes.
• Installing the system in a high-traffic or commercial area.
• Electrical connections that need to meet strict safety codes.

Installing an upflush toilet is a straightforward process that saves time and money compared to traditional plumbing.

By choosing the right location, following manufacturer instructions, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a hassle-free installation. With proper maintenance, your up flush toilet will provide reliable performance for years to come.

Conclusion

There are many benefits to incorporating an upflush toilet into your bathroom. Whether you are looking for an affordable way to remodel your existing space, create a temporary bathroom, or want to add a new bathroom to your home, an upflush toilet is a very cost-effective solution.

Why spend additional money installing a standard toilet when it isn’t necessary? Upflush toilets look exactly like a standard model. The main difference is in how it breaks down waste.

Upflush toilets are a great investment. They last longer, are affordable, and can be placed anywhere, making them an obvious choice for any bathroom remodel.