What Is a Holding Tank Macerator?

Macerators are useful pumps that will dispose of built-up waste in tanks. Its easy to install, is electrically charged and can be used on multiple appliances and vehicles. The unique device has some general considerations to be aware of but is a useful tool that makes cleaning more accessible.

  1. Basics

    • A holding tank macerator is actually a pump called a macerator pump that is used to empty out holding tanks for vehicles, boats and toilets. They are fitted onto the plumbing system and are electrically powered.

    Function

    • The macerator pump functions by suctioning solids from liquids in the lines that are connected to the holding tank, and grinding the effluent with a rotating cutter head. This chops up the particles and downsizes them to an appropriate size to simply be discharged of. The term macerator is referring to the action of the pump that grinds down the waste as it enters the inlet of the pump.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The macerator pumps are not equipped to run dry of liquids. In fact, the advanced macerator pumps will automatically shut off if the pump runs dry of liquids and prevent the impellers from wearing out quicker. If they do not shut off, the impellers can weaken and the pump's capacity to break down particles will be lessened.

    Installing a Macerator

    • An owner of the average boat or RV can install a macerator pump with basic tools such as wire cutters, strippers, pliers and screwdrivers. After it is installed, inlet hoses can be rigid lines like PVC (or flexible hoses) with wire reinforcement to prevent collapsing from the suction of the pump.

    Considerations

    • The pump is powered by either DC or AC electricity, so the power should be shut off before the supply is connected. Some kind of circuit protection, whether it be an inline fuse or a circuit breaker, should be used to protect the circuit.