When we started planning the conversion of our garage into an apartment, one thing was non-negotiable: it needed a fully functioning bathroom. What we didn’t want to do, though, was break into the concrete floor to run new plumbing.
That’s when our plumber introduced us to a macerating toilet, and honestly, it was one of those “why didn’t I know this existed sooner?” moments.
- What Is a Macerating Toilet?
- Why We Used a Macerating Toilet
- What Makes the Ascent™ II Stand Out
- Where Macerating Toilets Are Commonly Used
- How a Macerating Toilet Is Installed (High-Level Overview)
- Things to Consider Before Installing One
- Is a Macerating Toilet Worth It?
- FAQs
- What is a macerating toilet?
- Why would you use a macerating toilet?
- Do macerating toilets really work well?
- Can a macerating toilet pump waste uphill?
- Does a macerating toilet need electricity?
- Are macerating toilets loud?
- What can you flush in a macerating toilet?
- Is a macerating toilet hard to install?
- Is a macerating toilet worth it?
What Is a Macerating Toilet?
A macerating toilet looks similar to a standard toilet, but it works very differently behind the scenes. Instead of relying on gravity and large drain pipes, a macerating toilet:
- Grinds waste into a slurry
- Pumps it through small-diameter pipes
- Sends it into existing sewer or drain lines
This makes it possible to install a bathroom almost anywhere, even in spaces where traditional plumbing would be difficult, expensive, or destructive.
Why We Used a Macerating Toilet
During our garage-to-apartment conversion, we knew adding a bathroom would normally require:
- Jackhammering concrete
- Re-routing drain lines
- Major mess and cost
We talked it through with our plumber, and he recommended the Ascent™ II toilet system. This system allows you to install a bathroom without breaking concrete or flooring, which made it a perfect solution for our space.
What Makes the Ascent™ II Stand Out
The Ascent™ II isn’t just a workaround—it’s a well-designed system built for remodeling and additions.
Here’s what makes it especially appealing:
- RazorCut™ technology for improved maceration of waste
- Pumps waste upward and horizontally, so gravity isn’t required
- Connects to existing sewer lines using small pipes
- Removable service panel for quick access to the cutter area
- No need to disconnect plumbing for basic maintenance
Once waste is macerated, the system pumps it efficiently into the home’s existing plumbing.
Where Macerating Toilets Are Commonly Used
Macerating toilets are a great solution for:
- Garage apartment conversions
- Basement bathrooms
- Guest suites
- Home additions
- Laundry room or utility room bathrooms
- Homes with slab foundations
- Spaces far from the main sewer line
If adding traditional plumbing feels impossible or cost-prohibitive, a macerating toilet is often the answer.
How a Macerating Toilet Is Installed (High-Level Overview)
Installation is typically faster and less invasive than a traditional toilet install. While a licensed plumber is recommended, here’s the general process:
- Set the toilet in place like a standard toilet
- Connect the toilet to the macerating pump unit
- Run a small discharge pipe to an existing sewer or drain line
- Plug the system into a dedicated electrical outlet
- Test the system for proper flushing and pumping
No concrete cutting. No trenching. No massive demolition.
Things to Consider Before Installing One
While macerating toilets are incredibly useful, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- They require electricity to operate
- You should only flush approved waste and toilet paper
- They may make a brief noise while pumping (similar to a fan or disposer)
- Professional installation is recommended for best results
When used properly, they’re reliable and long-lasting.
Is a Macerating Toilet Worth It?
For us, absolutely yes. Being able to add a bathroom to our garage apartment without tearing up concrete saved time, money, and stress. It gave us flexibility we wouldn’t have had otherwise—and the bathroom functions just like any other.
If you’re remodeling, adding a bathroom, or working with a tricky space, this type of toilet might be the solution you didn’t even know existed.
FAQs
What is a macerating toilet?
A macerating toilet is a system that grinds waste into a slurry and pumps it through small pipes into existing sewer lines, allowing bathrooms to be installed in non-traditional locations.
Why would you use a macerating toilet?
Macerating toilets are used when traditional plumbing isn’t possible, such as in basements, garage apartments, or slab foundations, where breaking concrete would be costly or impractical.
Do macerating toilets really work well?
Yes. When installed correctly and used as intended, macerating toilets function reliably and efficiently, providing full bathroom use without major plumbing renovations.
Can a macerating toilet pump waste uphill?
Yes. these toilet systems are designed to pump waste upward and horizontally, making them ideal for bathrooms located below or far from main sewer lines.
Does a macerating toilet need electricity?
Yes. Macerating toilets require electricity to power the macerator and pump, so they must be connected to a dedicated electrical outlet.
Are macerating toilets loud?
Macerating toilets do make noise while operating, similar to a garbage disposal or fan, but the sound is brief and typically lasts only a few seconds per flush.
What can you flush in a macerating toilet?
You should only flush human waste and toilet paper. Flushing wipes, feminine products, or other items can damage the system.
Is a macerating toilet hard to install?
Installation is generally easier than traditional plumbing because it does not require breaking concrete. However, professional installation is recommended to ensure proper venting and drainage.
Is a macerating toilet worth it?
For homeowners wanting to add a bathroom without major construction, a macerating toilet can be a cost-effective and practical solution.
