How Loud Is a Macerating Toilet?
A typical macerating toilet produces 45-60 decibels when running — roughly equivalent to a dishwasher or a normal conversation. The noise occurs only during the flush cycle, which lasts 10-15 seconds.
For comparison:
- Whisper: 30 dB
- Normal conversation: 60 dB
- Macerating toilet: 45-60 dB
- Vacuum cleaner: 70 dB
- Garbage disposal: 80 dB
While not excessively loud, the sound can be noticeable — especially at night or if the bathroom shares a wall with a bedroom. Here are 7 proven ways to reduce it.
Method 1: Anti-Vibration Mat Under the Unit
Impact: High | Cost: Low
Much of the noise from a macerating toilet comes from vibration transfer to the floor. Placing a dense rubber anti-vibration mat or pad under the macerator unit absorbs these vibrations and can reduce perceived noise by 20-30%.
- Use a dense rubber mat (not foam — it compresses and loses effectiveness)
- Cut to size and place under the macerator before installation
- Ensure the mat doesn't obstruct any inlets or the discharge connection
Method 2: Insulate the Discharge Pipe
Impact: Medium-High | Cost: Low
Water rushing through the discharge pipe creates noise, especially where the pipe runs through walls or ceilings. Wrapping the pipe with pipe insulation foam significantly reduces this.
- Use closed-cell foam pipe insulation (available at any hardware store)
- Cover the entire run of the discharge pipe, especially where it passes through walls
- Secure with cable ties or insulation tape
Method 3: Decouple the Pipe from the Wall
Impact: Medium | Cost: Low
If the discharge pipe is rigidly clamped to wall studs or joists, vibration transfers directly to the structure. Use rubber-lined pipe clamps or isolating hangers instead of rigid metal clamps.
Method 4: Add Mass to the Wall Behind the Unit
Impact: Medium | Cost: Moderate
If the macerator shares a wall with a bedroom or living space, adding mass to that wall reduces sound transmission. Options include:
- A second layer of drywall (5/8" for best results)
- Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV) behind the drywall
- Acoustic insulation (Roxul Safe'n'Sound) in the wall cavity
Method 5: Build a Sound-Dampening Enclosure
Impact: High | Cost: Moderate
Building a simple enclosure around the macerator unit (while maintaining ventilation and access) can contain much of the noise. Use:
- MDF or plywood lined with acoustic foam
- Leave adequate ventilation (the motor needs airflow)
- Ensure easy removal for maintenance access
Important: Do NOT seal the enclosure airtight. The motor needs ventilation to prevent overheating.
Method 6: Check for Loose Components
Impact: Varies | Cost: Free
Sometimes increased noise indicates a maintenance issue rather than an inherent design characteristic:
- Loose screws on the cover — vibrate during operation
- Worn motor mounts — increase vibration transfer
- Limescale on the blade — creates grinding noise and puts extra load on the motor
- Foreign object near the blade — causes rattling or grinding
If your macerator has become louder than it used to be, run through these checks before adding sound insulation.
Method 7: Upgrade to a Quieter Model
Impact: High | Cost: High
If noise is a significant concern, newer macerating toilet models are noticeably quieter than older generations. Modern units often feature:
- Better motor insulation
- Improved blade designs that create less turbulence
- Vibration-dampening internal mounts
If your unit is 10+ years old, upgrading to a current-generation model may provide the biggest noise reduction.
What About the Flush Itself?
The macerator noise (10-15 seconds) is only part of the sound. The toilet's flush itself is comparable to a standard toilet. If the flush seems loud, check that the water pressure isn't too high — a pressure regulator can help.