Adding a new bathroom usually requires tearing up floors and installing expensive plumbing. A macerating toilet changes that. These units grind waste and pump it away, allowing you to install a toilet almost anywhere without gravity drains or septic tank access.
While they are less common than standard fixtures, there are plenty of upflush toilets on the market. We analyzed the top models available to help you find the right fit for your basement, attic, or garage renovation.
Here are the best macerating toilets available in 2026, chosen for their pump power, ease of installation, and reliability.
- Compact size
- High-capacity scavenger pump
- Slow-close seat
- Industry-leading brand
- Battery-powered flush
- Ideal for basements
- Removable maintenance panel
- WaterSense-certified
- RazorCut macerator
- Concealed pump and macerator
- Dual flush
- Comfort height
- Pumps waste up 15 feet
- Saniflo quality
- 3,600 RPM macerator
- Eco-friendly dual flush
- No vent needed
- Soft-close seat
What Is a Macerating Toilet System?
A macerating toilet, often called an upflush toilet, operates differently than the standard gravity-fed model you likely have in your main bathroom. When you flush, waste moves into a macerating pump tank. Inside, high-speed stainless steel blades shred solids and paper into a liquid slurry. The pump then pushes this liquid upward or sideways through small-diameter piping to connect with your home’s main sewage stack.
When To Choose a Macerating Toilet
Because these units do not rely on gravity, they are the perfect solution for spaces where conventional plumbing is impossible or too expensive. If you want to add a half-bath to a bedroom or attic, a macerating unit saves you from major structural changes.
They are most popular for adding a bathroom to a basement. Since basements are typically below the main sewer line, you cannot install a standard toilet without digging up concrete to install an ejector pump. A macerating toilet sits right on top of the finished floor, making it a much simpler DIY project.
Factors to Keep in Mind
Buying a macerating toilet is a significant investment. You need to consider specific electrical and plumbing requirements before making a purchase. Keep these factors in mind to ensure you pick a unit that can handle your household’s needs.
Flush Effectiveness and Pump Power
Standard toilets use gravity. Macerating toilets use electricity and mechanics. The most critical spec to look for is the vertical and horizontal pumping distance. If you are installing this in a deep basement, you need a pump strong enough to push waste vertically to reach your main waste pipe.
Cheaper models often struggle with vertical lifts over 10 feet. High-quality units can push waste 15 to 25 feet vertically and over 100 feet horizontally. Always check the manufacturer’s “pump curve” to ensure the unit can handle the distance in your specific layout.
Installation Location
Where you place the unit dictates the noise level tolerance and design requirements. If you are installing an en-suite in a guest bedroom, you want a quiet unit with a “silent” motor.
Basements present different challenges, specifically regarding damp odors and ventilation. While self-contained macerating toilets don’t strictly require external venting in some codes, it is highly recommended to prevent smells. Ensure you have access to an electrical outlet nearby, as all these toilets require power.
Usage Frequency
Macerating toilets are excellent problem solvers, but they are generally not designed for the heavy, constant traffic of a main family bathroom. They have mechanical parts that can wear out.
If a family of four plans to use this toilet daily, invest in a heavy-duty model like the Saniflo SaniPLUS. For a guest room or a basement powder room used occasionally, a compact or budget-friendly model will suffice.
Bowl Material
You can find macerating toilets in plastic, porcelain, and vitreous china. While plastic models are lighter and cheaper (often used in RVs), we strongly recommend sticking to vitreous china or ceramic for home installations.
Ceramic bowls are more stable, easier to clean, and feel like a “real” toilet. Plastic bowls tend to scratch, which can harbor bacteria and odors over time.
Water Consumption
Many modern upflush toilets are now dual-flush models. This feature allows you to use less water for liquid waste, which is environmentally friendly and easier on the macerator pump.
Be mindful of the toilet paper you use. Regardless of the flush rating, you should always use rapid-dissolving tissue to prevent jamming the macerator blades.
How Does a Macerating Toilet Work?
The system uses a fast-spinning blade, similar to a kitchen garbage disposal, to liquify waste. This slurry is then pumped out through a discharge pipe (usually 3/4-inch or 1-inch diameter) to the sewer.
Because the discharge pipe is so small, it can be hidden behind walls or baseboards easily, avoiding the need to tear up flooring.
Product Reviews
We researched and evaluated the top upflush systems on the market to help you add a bathroom where you thought you couldn’t. We selected these seven models based on motor reliability, blade efficiency, ease of maintenance, and build quality.
Five Oceans TMC Marine Electric Macerating Toilet
Best Macerating Toilet for RVs
If you need a compact toilet specifically for a boat or RV, the Five Oceans TMC is a standout choice. Unlike residential units that plug into a wall outlet, this system runs on a 12-volt power supply, making it perfect for mobile applications.
It features a vitreous china bowl, which is a significant upgrade over the plastic bowls found in many campers. The high-capacity scavenger pump effectively grinds waste and moves it to your holding tank. It is small, efficient, and significantly cheaper than full-sized residential macerating systems.
What We Like
Space-Saving Design
Measuring just 14.5 x 17.5 x 13 inches, this unit fits into the tightest wet baths in RVs or marine heads. Despite the small footprint, the china bowl provides a familiar home-like feel.
Marine-Grade Pump
The scavenger pump is designed to resist corrosion and handle the movement of a vehicle. It offers robust performance for pumping into holding tanks.
Budget-Friendly
This unit provides excellent value, costing roughly half the price of residential macerating systems. It is an affordable way to upgrade an RV bathroom.
What We Don't Like
Requires 12-Volt Power
This is not for a standard home basement installation. It requires a continuous 12-volt DC power source, meaning it runs off a battery system rather than a standard wall plug.
Utilitarian Aesthetic
The design prioritizes function over form. The exposed motor and compact shape look more industrial than a standard residential toilet.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 35 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 14.5 x 17.5 x 13 |
| Dual/single flush | Dual |
| Material | China |
| Soft-close seat | Yes |
| Price | $$ |
| Pumping height | 2 feet |
Our Ratings
Saniflo SaniAcess 3 Elongated Toilet
Best Elongated Macerating Toilet
Saniflo is the gold standard in the macerating toilet industry, and the SaniAccess 3 is one of their most user-friendly models. The “Access” in the name refers to the two service panels on top of the pump unit. These allow you to remove a clog or retrieve a dropped object without disconnecting the entire toilet, a massive advantage for maintenance.
This model features an elongated bowl for added comfort and a powerful pump capable of pushing waste 15 feet vertically. It is strong enough to handle a full bathroom installation, including gray water from a sink or shower.
What We Like
Maintenance Access Panels
The dual-access service panels are a game-changer. You can access the electrical components or the macerator blades quickly, saving you hours of frustration if a blockage occurs.
Industry Leader Reliability
Saniflo parts are widely available, and their pumps are known for longevity. Buying from the market leader ensures you have support if something breaks years down the line.
Powerful Vertical Pumping
With the ability to pump waste 15 feet vertically and 150 feet horizontally, this unit easily handles deep basement installations where gravity drainage is impossible.
What We Don't Like
Premium Price Point
You pay for the reliability and the access panels. This is one of the more expensive options on our list, but the ease of maintenance often justifies the cost.
Audible Flush
Like most macerators, the motor makes noise when running. While not deafening, it is louder than a gravity toilet, which might be noticeable in a quiet house at night.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 18 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 10.75 x 18.75 x 6.75 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Soft-close seat | No |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Pumping height | 15 feet |
Our Ratings
Liberty Pumps Ascent II Macerating Toilet
Best Maintenance Macerating Toilet
The Liberty Pumps Ascent II is a direct competitor to high-end Saniflo models and holds its own with superior cutting technology. It features “RazorCut” stainless steel blades designed to slice through waste more effectively than standard macerators.
One of its strongest selling points is the impressive pumping power; it can lift waste up to 25 feet vertically, which is higher than most competitors. It also features a removable service panel for easier maintenance, making it a favorite among plumbers and DIYers alike.
What We Like
RazorCut Technology
The advanced cutting system is highly efficient at liquefying waste, which significantly reduces the risk of clogging compared to standard grinding mechanisms.
Exceptional Vertical Lift
With a 25-foot vertical pumping capacity, the Ascent II is the best choice for deep basements or installations where the main sewer line is significantly higher than the bathroom.
WaterSense Certified
Using just 1.28 gallons per flush, this toilet is highly efficient. It meets EPA standards, helping you save water without sacrificing flushing power.
Serviceability
Like the SaniAccess, this unit includes a removable access cover. This allows you to clear debris or service the unit without detaching the plumbing.
What We Don't Like
Noisy Operation
The powerful motor and cutting blades generate noise. It is a trade-off for the superior pumping height and cutting efficiency.
Blade Maintenance
To keep the RazorCut system working at peak efficiency, the manufacturer recommends checking or replacing the cutter cartridge periodically, which is an extra maintenance step.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 134.5 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 29.25 x 20 x 32.25 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | ABS plastic |
| Soft-close seat | No |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Pumping height | 25 feet |
Our Ratings
Saniflo Sanicompact Self-Contained Toilet
Best Self-Contained Macerating Toilet
The Saniflo Sanicompact is unique because it doesn’t have an external water tank or a visible pump box. Everything is concealed inside the porcelain base, giving it a sleek, modern look that saves massive amounts of space.
It is the perfect solution for tiny powder rooms, closets turned into bathrooms, or under-stair installations. Despite its small size, it can still pump 9 feet vertically and connects to a sink, allowing you to create a functional half-bath in tight quarters.
What We Like
Ultra-Compact Footprint
Because there is no external tank, this toilet takes up very little depth. It is ideal for small city apartments or tiny home installations.
Aesthetics
It looks more like a standard modern toilet than other macerating units. The hidden mechanics mean you don’t have to look at a plastic pump box behind the bowl.
Comfort Height Seating
The bowl height is 18.5 inches, qualifying it as a comfort height toilet. This makes it much easier for taller adults or those with mobility issues to use comfortably.
What We Don't Like
Electronic Flush Only
Since there is no gravity tank, the flush is entirely electronic. If you lose power, you cannot flush the toilet at all.
Limited Pumping Power
With only 9 feet of vertical lift, this unit is not suitable for deep basements. It works best for ground-floor installations or attics where waste needs to move horizontally.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 52.2 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 18.25 x 14.5 x 15.75 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Soft-close seat | No |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Pumping height | 9 feet |
Our Ratings
Saniflo SaniPLUS Macerating Toilet
Best Two-Piece Macerating Toilet
The Saniflo SaniPLUS is the workhorse of the lineup. It is designed to handle the waste from an entire bathroom, not just the toilet. The pump unit features inlets for a sink, a shower, and a bath, making it the best option if you are adding a full bathroom suite to a basement.
It uses a standard round bowl, which saves space compared to elongated models. The motor is robust, capable of 15 feet of vertical lift, and operates at 3,600 RPM to pulverize waste quickly and efficiently.
What We Like
Full Bathroom Capability
The SaniPLUS is designed to handle gray water from a tub, shower, and sink alongside the toilet waste. It is a complete plumbing solution in one box.
Reliable Performance
This is one of the most time-tested models on the market. The high-speed motor ensures waste is processed rapidly, reducing the chance of clogs.
Flexible Installation
With a 150-foot horizontal pumping range, you can install this toilet far away from your main soil stack, giving you freedom in your floor plan design.
What We Don't Like
Toilet Seat Not Included
For the price, it is frustrating that a seat is not included in the box. You will need to purchase a standard round toilet seat separately.
Investment Cost
This is a premium system. However, considering it saves you the cost of breaking up concrete for a full bathroom install, it is still cost-effective.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 99.7 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 27.9 x 20 x 17.5 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | Porcelain |
| Soft-close seat | No |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Pumping height | 15 feet |
Our Ratings
Intelflo 600-Watt One-Piece Macerating Toilet
Best Dual Flush Macerating Toilet
The Intelflo offers a sleek, one-piece design similar to the Sanicompact but at a more accessible price point. Its defining feature is the dual-flush system, allowing you to choose between a light flush (0.75 gallons) and a full flush (1 gallon).
This unit is self-contained, meaning the pump is hidden inside the ceramic. It boasts a surprisingly powerful motor capable of 20 feet of vertical lift, making it a viable option for basements despite its compact appearance.
What We Like
Water Savings
The dual-flush mechanism is excellent for conserving water. If you are on a metered connection or just eco-conscious, this is a great feature.
Clean Design
With no external pump box and a skirted design, this toilet is easy to wipe down and looks great in modern bathrooms.
Quiet Soft-Close Seat
It comes with a high-quality seat that prevents slamming. This helps keep noise to a minimum, which is always a plus for ensuite bathrooms.
No Venting Required
As a self-contained unit, it generally does not require a vent stack connection, simplifying the installation process significantly.
What We Don't Like
Difficult Maintenance Access
Because the pump is integrated into the ceramic base, accessing the mechanism to clear a clog is difficult. You may have to uninstall the entire toilet to fix internal issues.
Generic Parts
Unlike major brands like Saniflo or Liberty, finding specific replacement parts for Intelflo units can sometimes be more challenging.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 58.8 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 23.75 x 21.5 x 17.75 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Soft-close seat | Yes |
| Price | $$$ |
| Pumping height | 20 feet |
Our Ratings
Sanimove Macerating Toilet with 500Watt Maerator Pump
Best Versatile Macerating Toilet
The Sanimove 500W is a versatile two-piece system that prioritizes flexibility. The separate pump unit features four water inlets, allowing you to connect a sink, shower, and even a bidet or washing machine alongside the toilet.
It uses a powerful 500-watt motor that can discharge waste up to 24 feet vertically. This high lift capacity makes it a strong contender for deep basement conversions where other pumps might struggle.
What We Like
Multiple Inlets
The ability to connect multiple fixtures makes this unit fantastic for creating a complete laundry room or full bathroom setup in a basement.
Strong Vertical Lift
Pumping 24 feet vertically is impressive for a unit in this price range. It ensures reliable performance even in deep underground spaces.
Stainless Steel Blades
The macerator uses durable stainless steel blades rather than plastic components, ensuring it can handle solid waste effectively over time.
What We Don't Like
Plastic Components
While the blades are steel, some of the casing and internal connectors are plastic. These can feel less durable than the components found on premium models like the Saniflo.
Detailed Installation
With multiple inlets comes a slightly more complex installation process. You need to ensure all unused ports are sealed tightly to prevent leaks or odors.
Product Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 103.8 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 33 x 26 x 20 |
| Dual/single flush | Single |
| Material | Aluminum motor casing, stainless steel, and plastic |
| Soft-close seat | No |
| Price | $$$ |
| Pumping height | 24 feet |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Dual/single flush | Material | Soft-close seat | Pumping height |
| Five Oceans TMC Marine Electric Toilet | RVs | 35 lbs | 14.5 x 17.5 x 13″ | Dual | China | Yes | 2 feet |
| Saniflo SaniAcess 3 Elongated Toilet | Elongated | 18 lbs | 10.75 x 18.75 x 6.75″ | Single | Ceramic | No | 15 feet |
| Liberty Pumps Ascent II Macerating Toilet | Low Maintenance | 135 lbs | 29.25 x 20 x 32.25″ | Single | ABS plastic | No | 25 feet |
| Saniflo Sanicompact Self-Contained Toilet | Self-Contained | 52 lbs | 18.25 x 14.5 x 15.75″ | Single | Porcelain | No | 9 feet |
| Saniflo SaniPLUS Macerating Toilet | Two-Piece | 100 lbs | 27.9 x 20 x 17.5″ | Single | Porcelain | No | 15 feet |
| Intelflo One-Piece Macerating Toilet | Dual Flush | 58.8 lbs | 23.75 x 21.5 x 17.75″ | Single | Ceramic | Yes | 20 feet |
| Sanimove Macerating Toilet | Best Versatile | 103.8 lbs | 33 x 26 x 20″ | Single | Aluminum, stainless steel,plastic | No | 24 feet |
Macerating Toilets FAQs
How Long Do Macerating Toilets Last?
A well-maintained macerating toilet typically lasts between 10 to 15 years. The pump and macerator are the working parts that see the most wear. You can extend the unit’s life by regularly descaling it and avoiding flushing harsh chemicals or prohibited items like wipes.
How Far Can a Macerating Toilet Pump Waste?
Top-tier macerating toilets can pump waste up to 25 feet vertically and 150 feet horizontally. However, every bend (elbow) in your pipework reduces this distance. Always consult the manufacturer’s “pump curve” chart to ensure the model fits your specific plumbing layout.
Does a Macerating Toilet Need To Be Vented?
Can You Put Bleach Down a Macerator Toilet?
No, you should avoid using bleach or heavy chlorine cleaners in a macerator. Strong chemicals can corrode the rubber seals and internal components of the pump, leading to leaks or mechanical failure. Use a specialized descaler or mild, non-corrosive cleaners instead.
How Do You Clear a Clogged Toilet Macerator?
First, turn off the power. Some models, like the Saniflo SaniAccess or Liberty Ascent II, have service panels that let you remove clogs manually. For others, you may need to use a pair of pliers to rotate the macerator blade shaft manually to free the jam. Never use a snake, as it can damage the blades.
Are Macerator Toilets Worth It?
Yes, if you need a bathroom where gravity plumbing is impossible or too expensive. While they cost more upfront than a standard toilet, they save thousands of dollars in construction costs since you don’t need to break concrete or install an ejector pump pit.
Are Macerating Toilets Noisy?
They are louder than gravity toilets but not deafening. The sound is comparable to a dishwasher or a washing machine filling up. Modern units use insulated cases and vibration-dampening feet to keep the noise levels acceptable for residential use.
Can You Use Flushable Wipes with a Macerator?
Absolutely not. Even wipes labeled “flushable” generally do not break down fast enough for a macerator. They will wrap around the blades and burn out the motor. Only flush human waste and toilet paper.
What Can Go Wrong with a Macerator Toilet?
The most common failure is a burnt-out motor caused by jamming. This happens when foreign objects (toys, feminine hygiene products, wipes) are flushed. Rubber seals can also dry out and leak if harsh chemicals are used for cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean a Macerator Toilet?
You should use a macerator-safe descaler every 3 to 6 months, especially if you live in an area with hard water. Limescale buildup can encrust the pressure sensor, causing the pump to turn on at the wrong times or run continuously.
Which Is the Best Macerator for a Toilet?
For overall performance and maintenance, the Liberty Pumps Ascent II is a top choice due to its RazorCut technology and removable service panel. If you need a full bathroom system, the Saniflo SaniPLUS is the industry standard for handling multiple fixtures.
Do Macerating Toilets Smell?
A correctly installed macerating toilet should not smell. If you detect sewage odors, it usually means the unit is not vented correctly or the descaling maintenance has been neglected. Regular cleaning and ensuring airtight pipe connections are key to keeping the system odor-free.
