Find solutions to common Saniflo problems, including blockages, strange noises, leaks, and maintenance tips.
Top Saniflo Issues and Solutions:
1. My Saniflo Toilet Macerator Is Blocked Up
Solution: If the water level is high in the toilet bowl, remove as much water as possible with a bucket to prevent overflow. Leaks can occur if the macerator is full.
2. My Saniflo Has Cut Out Mid-Cycle Whilst Emptying
Solution: This could be due to the thermal cut-off activating because of hot water running through the unit. Let the motor cool down before restarting. Reduce hot water usage from washing machines or baths. If it continues to cut out, turn the pump off at the wall.
3. My Toilet, Shower, Bath, or Basin Is Full of Water Backed Up
Solution: This usually means the Saniflo system has an internal or waste pipe blockage. Empty as much water as you can to prevent leaks. Consider seeking professional assistance to clear the blockage.
4. My Saniflo Won’t Switch On, Off, or Keeps Running
Solution: Possible causes include a blockage, damaged membrane, missing non-return valve, or a broken switch. If it’s not blocked, replacing the switch and membrane may resolve the issue.
5. My Saniflo Sounds Like It’s Going to Take Off (Vibrating)
Solution: A foreign object might be caught in the macerator blades, causing vibrations. This is usually repairable.
6. My Saniflo Sanivite Has Problems & Smells Horrible
Solution: It may need a manual clean-out. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
7. My Saniflo Is Buzzing, Humming, or Jammed
Solution: This could be due to a blown capacitor, a jammed mechanism, or a failed motor. The first two issues are repairable; a motor replacement might be necessary for the third.
8. My Electrics Keep Tripping or Fusing Out
Solution: This can be due to loose wires or water ingress into the electrics. Turn off the power immediately and seek professional inspection and repairs.
9. My Saniflo Keeps Starting on Its Own Intermittently
Solution: Causes may include a leaking tap, damaged membrane, or faulty switch. Replacing the membrane and switch together can resolve the issue.
10. My Saniflo Box Is Hot
Solution: The motor may be jammed. Disconnect the power immediately. Do not attempt repairs yourself as water and electricity are involved.
11. My Saniflo Pump Won’t Switch On and Won’t Work
Solution: Check for a damaged membrane, broken internal float switch, or a blocked unit. If none of these, the motor may have failed.
12. Saniflo Leaking Through My Ceiling
Solution: This usually happens when the unit is overfilled, possibly due to flushing twice or an appliance connected to the system overflowing. Turn off the water supply immediately.
13. My Saniflo Leaks Out of the Air Vent
Solution: Excessive use of bleach can shrink internal seals, causing leaks. Alternatively, the unit may be packed with waste and require a thorough clean-out.
14. My New Large Drum Washing Machine Is Flooding the Saniflo
Solution: Large-capacity washing machines (9kg or more) may overwhelm the Saniflo if the outlet pipe size is too small. Ensure you have a 33mm (1.25 inch) waste pipe.
15. My Bathroom Saniflo Won’t Drain Out but Works with the Toilet Flush
Solution: Hair or debris may be clogging the inlet valve. Cleaning out the inlet valve can resolve the problem.
16. How Reliable Is a Saniflo?
Solution: With proper care, a Saniflo unit can last many years. Descale annually and avoid flushing foreign objects to prevent motor damage.
17. How Noisy Is a Saniflo?
Solution: Modern Saniflo models are quieter than older versions. The flushing sound of a standard toilet is usually louder than the Saniflo’s operation.
🛒 Need Saniflo Descaler?
Proper Saniflo descaling is crucial for maintaining your unit. Check out our recommended products: