Holding Tanks - Gravity vs Macerator Pump

nickansc · #1 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

We're currently refitting our boat and want to put in a holding tank, clearly a gravity system is great if you can get the tank above the waterline ... however, if you can't ... how good are macerator pumps at getting the waste out? how reliable are they? what should we bear in mind?

the consequences of getting this wrong don't bear thinking about so please help!

Cheers

Nick

Stu Jackson · #2 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

If you buy a macerator pump, do NOT buy a Jabsco. Their design is prone to leaking. Use a Shurflo.

treilley · #3 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

Doesn't have to be entirely above WL. Ours is mostly above so I can drain by gravity about 70 gallons. Our electric head macerates into the tank.

Sea Diamond · #4 (**permalink**) 01-11-2012

I just installed an electric macerator toilet and am about to hook up a new holding tank.
A gravity drained tank would be nice but I understand from these threads that the tank contents may solidify if the boat is left dormant for a time. Has anybody else experienced this? Sometimes my boat sits at the dock for a week or two more between sails.