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General Installation Guide

How to Install a Macerator Pump (General Installation Guide)

Important: All macerator pumps must be installed by a qualified plumber or engineer to comply with UK building regulations, electrical safety rules, and warranty conditions.
This is a general overview, not a technical installation manual.

1. Position the Macerator

  • Place the macerator directly behind the toilet or as close as possible to the waste outlet.

  • Ensure you have enough clearance behind the WC pan for the macerator inlet and connections.

2. Connect the WC Outlet to the Macerator

  • Fit the toilet’s horizontal outlet into the macerator inlet using the supplied connector or pan adaptor.

  • Ensure the seal is watertight and properly aligned.

3. Connect Additional Appliances (if required)

Many macerators allow extra inlets for:

  • Basin

  • Shower

  • Bath (model dependent)

  • Bidet

Use the side or top inlets according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring correct fall on the gravity pipework.

4. Install the Discharge Pipework

  • Use the correct pipe size (commonly 22mm, 28mm, or 32mm).

  • Maintain a smooth run with minimal bends to maximise performance.

  • Incorporate a non-return valve if not already included.

5. Electrical Connection

  • Must be wired to a fused spur by a qualified electrician.

  • The macerator must not be connected to a standard plug socket in splash zones.

6. Test the System

  • Flush the toilet and run connected appliances.

  • Ensure the pump activates, runs, and stops correctly.

  • Check for leaks at all joints.

How to Install a Sewage Pumping Station (General Installation Guide)

Important: Installation of packaged pumping stations requires a qualified drainage engineer, as incorrect installation can cause flooding, electrical hazards, or system failure.
This overview provides the general process only.

1. Prepare the Excavation

  • Excavate a hole large enough for the chamber and concrete/aggregate surround.

  • Ensure depth allows correct inlet levels and final ground finish.

  • De-water the excavation if necessary.

2. Lower the Chamber Into Position

  • Carefully lower the chamber onto a prepared concrete base or level granular bed (depending on manufacturer requirements).

  • Ensure the chamber is perfectly vertical and stable.

3. Connect the Inlet Pipework

  • Bring the incoming sewer pipe into the chamber at the correct invert level.

  • Use the supplied rubber grommet or inlet seal.

  • Maintain the proper fall on the incoming pipe (typically 1:40–1:80).

4. Install and Secure the Pump(s)

  • Fit the submersible pump(s) onto the base or guide-rail system.

  • Attach the lifting chain if required.

  • Connect internal pipework and the non-return valve.

5. Install the Discharge Line

  • Connect the discharge pipe to the external rising main.

  • Include valves, bends, and fittings as specified.

  • Pressure-test where required.

6. Install the Control Equipment

  • Fit the float switches, level controls, or probes.

  • Mount any external control panel (for twin-pump systems or commercial units).

  • Ensure all electrical work follows UK wiring regulations.

7. Backfill the Excavation

  • Backfill around the chamber using concrete or suitable granular material as specified.

  • Backfill in layers to avoid distortion.

  • Do not overload the chamber before properly securing it.

8. Fit the Chamber Cover

  • Install the pedestrian- or vehicle-rated access cover.

  • Ensure the lid is level with the surrounding ground.

9. Commission the System

  • Fill the chamber with water.

  • Test automatic pump activation and shutoff.

  • Confirm correct flow, pump direction, and non-return valve operation.