Macerator pumps grind solid toilet waste into small particles for easy disposal in marine applications or RV holding tanks. They are ideal for small spaces and powered by 12V DC. Inlet lines should be rigid pipes and discharge lines do not have to be.
Many boats and recreational vehicles (RVs) are equipped with macerator pumps which are essentially compact, electrically powered garbage disposal systems. A macerator pump grinds solid toilet waste into small particles for easy dumping overboard for marine applications or RV holding tanks. With their minimal use of space, macerator pumps are ideal for the often small and cramped interiors common to boats, RVs, and even some smaller homes or cottages. Using waste water, a macerator pump, or simply macerator, combines the water with the sucking, mashing and pumping action of rapidly rotating impellers to grind and then discharge the effluent. Impellers are often made from bronze as it does not rust and is sturdy and easier to manufacture.
The dictionary definition of steeping is making or becoming soft through immersion in liquid. Therefore, a macerator pump will combine this maceration with the grinding or cutting process to significantly reduce the solid waste into particles that are small and soft enough for convenient and hygienic discharge. Waste is drawn to and through the grinding impellers by lines or larger pipes, usually 1.5 inches (38 mm) or 2 inches (51 mm), needed to allow solid waste passage. The resulting steam is then forced into 1 inch (25 mm) lines and forced by the pump into the appropriate vessels. Installing a macerator on the inlet side of a toilet means the pump will require less water, a significant factor in RV setups, especially those with a single small tank.
Macerator pumps should not be confused with Type I and Type II Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs) which use electrolytic decontamination (Type I) and a chemical reaction (Type II) to eliminate or decontaminate waste. All of these systems and devices may be subject to a variety of regulations.
Since a macerator pump is primarily used where 120V electrical power is not available, it is most commonly powered by 12V DC power from a car battery. A macerator pump is fairly easy to install and replace by the average user. Simple tools like a pair of pliers, screwdriver, wire cutters, and wire strippers will get the job done.
The inlet lines, those that feed the solid waste into the macerator pump, should be rigid pipes such as PVC or wire-reinforced flexible pipes. These lines must be able to withstand the suction of the macerator pump without bending or sagging. Discharge lines, since they deal with forced-discharge macerated waste, do not necessarily have to be rigid or reinforced. All wastewater lines to and from the macerator pumps, as well as fittings and connections, should be checked frequently for leaks and wear.
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