Macerator toilet systems like sanimove and saniflo provide a solution for installing a toilet in areas without direct access to drain pipes.
These systems grind waste into slurry and pump it to an existing waste line. But how do these two popular brands compare? Read on for a detailed feature and capability comparison.
A Brief Comparison Table
Feature | Sanimove | Saniflo |
Noise | Quieter 45 dB | Louder 50+ dB |
Installation | More Flexible | Limitations |
Maintenance | Simpler | Requires Disassembly |
Cost | $900-1200 | $700+ |
How Do Macerator Toilets Work?
A macerating toilet looks similar to a typical toilet but contains a macerator pump system housed in the tank or base. The macerator uses sharp rotating blades to grind down solid waste into tiny particles that are easily pumped as slurry through small diameter pipes.
The macerator connects to a discharge pipe that runs horizontally to an existing soil stack, waste line, or septic tank – even if it’s on another floor level. So you can install a toilet without major plumbing work.
Key Features Of Sanimove And Saniflo Toilet Systems
Noise Levels
Both sanimove and saniflo macerators make some noise when grinding and pumping waste. But sanimove claims to have quieter operation at around 45 dB while saniflo pumps emit over 50 dB noise.
Installation Flexibility
Sanimove offers more flexibility in positioning the discharge pipe outlet which can simplify installation. Saniflo requires pipe outlet to always be lower than the pump.
Maintenance
Sanimove macerators feature better access to internal parts for easier maintenance and clearing blockages if needed. Saniflo units require complete disassembly.
Toilet Styles
Both companies offer macerating units to match contemporary toilet designs from major brands like Toto and Kohler. So style options are comparable.
Reliability
With proper installation and maintenance, both brands offer reliable service for over a decade before component failure. Sanimove provides a 15 year warranty on motor and parts compared to Saniflo’s 2 year warranty (extendable).
Efficiency
Sanimove claims more efficient pumping allowing discharge pipe to extend up to 150 feet horizontally and 65 feet vertically. Saniflo specify 100 foot horizontal or 16 feet vertical limits.
Now that we’ve compared key specs, let’s analyze the pros and cons of these two popular macerating toilet brands in more detail.
Pros And Cons Of Sanimove Macerator Toilets
Pros
- Quieter operation at 45 dB makes it suitable near bedrooms
- Flexible pipe positioning, always self primes
- Easier to maintain and clear blockages
- Fast 2 year ROI with water savings
- Occupies less space with rear pipe outlet option
Cons
- Long 15 year warranty reflects shorter lifespan
- Requires GFCI outlet which adds electrician cost
- Less easy to find at local plumbing stores
Best For
With quieter and more efficient pumping, Sanimove excels for:
- Basement or attic bathrooms
- Tiny home or ADU installations
- Any noise sensitive location
Overall, Sanimove offers the quietest and most advanced operation. But higher system cost takes longer to recover from water savings.
Pros And Cons Of Saniflo San Macerator Units
Pros
- Broadest dealer & contractor network
- Readily available at hardware stores
- Lower unit cost around $700
- Easy 2 year extended warranty
Cons
- Louder operation at over 50 dB
- Limited discharge pipe positioning
- Requires complete disassembly to maintain
- Pumping capacity not as efficient
Best For
With a lower price and wider availability, Saniflo Saniplus is ideal for:
- Rental units and basic needs
- Tight budgets or simpler installation
- Any residential application
Saniflo is the most established macerating brand. But louder operation and limited maintenance access reduce desirability for some applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Sanimove is considered the leading alternative with quieter and more efficient operation. Their systems allow more flexible installation too. So Sanimov provides better performance overall.
Sanimove macerators consistently rate as the best pump in independent tests. Their dual motor design with hardened stainless steel macerator delivers powerful and reliable performance for household usage.
The Toto Washlet C200 coupled with a Sanimove macerating unit is an excellent combination for home installation. It provides a contemporary toilet design with bidet cleaning functions, very quiet pump operation, and flexible positioning to simplify retrofit projects.
With periodic maintenance to lubricate components and replace seals, Saniflo macerator toilets typically deliver reliable service for over 10 years. The macerator motor and internal cutter blades have longest lifespan of 10-15 years for household usage levels.
Also Read: Differences Between Kohler And Toto Bidets.
Conclusion
While both companies offer quality macerating toilet systems, Sanimove rates best for advanced features like flexible installation, quieter operation, and easier maintenance access.
Saniflo Saniplus still works well for basic needs given lower system cost and widespread local availability. But noisier pumping and limited servicing access reduce desirability for some applications.
Ultimately Sanimove provides the top performance macerator toilet solution today – making installation in any tight space easier with minimal noise or fuss. Just be prepared to pay extra upfront for the quality and flexibility.