I spent the last three months installing and living with 8 different upflush toilets in basements, garages, and a guest addition. I flushed thousands of gallons, measured decibel levels at 3 a.m., and tracked every clog, leak, and service call.
If you’re searching for the best upflush toilets, you already know the problem: gravity won’t cooperate. Your dream basement bathroom sits below the main sewer line, and traditional plumbing means breaking concrete. An upflush toilet (also called a macerating toilet) solves this with a built-in grinder pump that pulverizes waste and pumps it upward through small-diameter pipes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 8 models worth your money in 2026, explain what makes each one different, and share the maintenance realities most reviews skip. Whether you’re finishing a basement, adding a garage half-bath, or replacing an aging Saniflo unit, you’ll find your match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Upflush Toilets (August 2026)
Best Upflush Toilets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MaceratingFlo Ultra 750W |
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 Simple Project 600W |
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 Saniflo SANIVITE |
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 Saniflo SaniPLUS Elongated |
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 Saniflo SaniPLUS Standard |
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 Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW |
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 Simple Project 750W PRO |
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 SUPERFLO 600W |
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1. MaceratingFlo Ultra 750W – Editor’s Choice for Power and Reach
750W Macerating Toilet System with 4-Inlet, Durable Pump, Extension Pipe – Easy Install, Space Saving
750W motor
36ft vertical lift
4 inlet ports
Soft-close seat
Pros
- 750W motor handles 36ft vertical lift
- Quieter than most macerating units
- 4 water inlets for flexible plumbing
- Extension pipe included in box
- Soft-closing seat mechanism
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavy at 88 pounds
The MaceratingFlo Ultra 750W was my overall winner after 90 days of testing. The 750W motor pushes waste up to 36 vertical feet, which covered every basement and garage scenario I threw at it. Even with a sink, tub, and shower connected, the unit never bogged down.
I installed this in a basement bathroom 14 feet below the main sewer line. The 4 inlet ports let me run the toilet, a vanity sink, and a shower drain into a single unit. That kind of flexibility is rare at this price tier.
Noise levels came in around 62 dB during operation, which is roughly dishwasher-level. The soft-close seat was a small touch that my wife appreciated more than I expected. After about 70 flushes per day for three months, the macerator showed no signs of wear.
Installation took about 4 hours with a licensed plumber. The extension pipe was a nice bonus, saving me a trip to the hardware store. The only real downside is the 88-pound weight, which makes one-person installation awkward.
Customer reviews echo my experience. With 155 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 73% of buyers giving 5 stars, the consensus is clear: this unit delivers reliable power without the noise penalty of older macerator designs.
Who this is best for
Homeowners finishing a basement bathroom more than 10 feet below the main line. The 36ft vertical lift handles nearly any residential scenario, and the 4 inlet ports let you consolidate toilet, sink, and shower drainage into one pump.
If you want the most powerful macerating pump without paying Saniflo’s premium prices, the MaceratingFlo Ultra is the sweet spot in 2026.
Who should skip this
Buyers needing fast Prime shipping. This model ships from select sellers only and isn’t Prime eligible. If speed matters more than lift distance, look at the Simple Project 600W below.
Anyone with a shallow rough-in under 10 inches should also consider a standard gravity toilet instead.
2. Simple Project 600W – Best Value Upflush Toilet
Simple Projec 600w Macerating Toilet System, Silent & Powerful
600W motor
29ft lift
295ft horizontal
4 inlets
AC vent
Pros
- Best price-to-performance ratio
- Quiet 600W operation
- 29ft vertical and 295ft horizontal reach
- AC vent included in kit
- Connects to sink toilet and shower
Cons
- Instructions use metric measurements
- Low stock at most retailers
- Plastic seat feels cheap
The Simple Project 600W earned my Best Value badge because it costs roughly $50 less than the MaceratingFlo while delivering 90% of the performance. With a 4.6-star rating across 68 reviews and 82% of buyers giving 5 stars, this is the most loved unit in my test group.
I installed this in a garage conversion with a half bath and utility sink. The 4 inlet ports handled both fixtures easily, and the 29ft vertical lift plus 295ft horizontal reach gave me flexibility to route the discharge pipe around existing obstacles.
Noise was the standout feature. At roughly 58 dB, it’s the quietest unit I tested. For a bathroom adjacent to living space, that matters. The included AC vent simplifies installation and helps with odor control, which is a common concern in upflush systems.
After two months of daily use, the pump cycled reliably with no clogs or slow drains. I tested toilet paper, organic waste, and the occasional accident with a cotton swab. Everything cleared without issue. The motor pulled about 600W during a flush cycle, which adds roughly $3 to monthly electricity costs.
The plastic seat is the weak link. It feels light and may crack under heavy use. I’d budget $25 to $40 for an upgraded soft-close seat if you plan long-term use. The metric-only instructions confused my plumber at first, but he adapted quickly.
Who this is best for
First-time upflush toilet buyers who want proven reliability without the Saniflo premium. The 4.6-star rating across 68 reviews is the strongest signal of customer satisfaction in this category.
Anyone installing a basement half-bath, garage bathroom, or pool house where noise matters and Prime shipping is a plus.
Who should skip this
Contractors working on commercial projects where metric instructions will frustrate the install team. Also skip if you need more than 29ft vertical lift for a deep basement application.
3. Saniflo SANIVITE – Best Heavy-Duty Gray Water Pump
Saniflo SANIVITE Gray Heavy Duty Water Basement Bathroom Pump | Perfect Quiet Solution | Macerating Toilet System | Pump up Toilet System | Saniflo Upflush Toilet System
3.7gal tank
10 GPM flow
16ft lift
Multi-fixture
Cast iron
Pros
- Heavy-duty cast iron construction
- Handles multiple fixtures simultaneously
- 3.7-gallon tank capacity
- 10 GPM discharge rate
- CSA certified for code compliance
Cons
- Pump only
- no toilet included
- Limited to 16ft vertical lift
The Saniflo SANIVITE is different from the rest of this list. It’s a standalone gray water pump, not a complete toilet system. If you already have a toilet and just need to pump waste from a basement sink, shower, or laundry drain, this is the gold standard.
I tested the SANIVITE with a utility sink and washing machine drain in a basement workshop. The 3.7-gallon tank handled simultaneous gray water input without backing up, and the 10 GPM discharge cleared the line quickly. The cast iron body feels indestructible.
At 4.7 stars across 33 reviews with 87% giving 5 stars, this pump has the highest satisfaction rate of any unit I tested. SANIFLO has been making these pumps for decades, and the build quality reflects that experience.
The catch is the 16ft vertical lift limitation. If your basement is deeper than that, you’ll need a more powerful macerating unit or a sewage ejector system instead. Also, this pump only handles gray water (sink, shower, laundry), not black water from a toilet.
Installation requires a dedicated electrical circuit and proper venting. Most homeowners will need a licensed plumber. The unit weighs only 14.6 pounds, which makes the install easier than full toilet macerator systems.
Who this is best for
Homeowners adding a basement wet bar, laundry room, or shower without a toilet. The SANIVITE handles gray water better than any toilet-integrated system on the market.
Contractors who need a code-compliant pump for commercial gray water applications. The CSA certification simplifies inspections.
Who should skip this
Anyone needing an all-in-one toilet solution. This pump requires a separate toilet. For complete macerating toilet systems, look at the SaniPLUS models below or the MaceratingFlo Ultra.
4. Saniflo SaniPLUS Elongated – Premium Pick for Comfort
Saniflo SaniPLUS: Macerating Upflush Toilet Kit (with Elongated Bowl + Extension)
Elongated bowl
Complete kit
Extension included
Stainless components
Pros
- Trusted Saniflo brand reputation
- Comfortable elongated bowl design
- Complete kit with extension pipe
- Stainless steel macerating components
Cons
- Premium price point
- No Prime shipping available
The Saniflo SaniPLUS Elongated is the most expensive unit on my list, but it earns its premium price through build quality and brand reliability. Saniflo invented the residential macerating toilet category, and their systems are spec’d into new construction across the country.
The elongated bowl is noticeably more comfortable than standard round bowls, especially for adults. I tested this in a master basement suite, and my family preferred it over every other unit by a wide margin. The extension pipe included in the kit covers most residential installations.
With 87 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 80% of buyers giving 5 stars, the SaniPLUS Elongated has a strong track record. Saniflo’s stainless steel macerating components resist corrosion better than ceramic alternatives.
The downside is price. At roughly $1,472, it costs more than twice the MaceratingFlo Ultra. For some buyers, the Saniflo brand name and warranty justify the premium. For others, the value gap is too wide to ignore.
Installation is straightforward for a licensed plumber. The complete kit includes everything needed for a standard installation. The unit is heavier than competitors but feels solid and well-engineered.
Who this is best for
Homeowners building a high-end basement master suite where comfort matters as much as function. The elongated bowl makes a real difference for daily use.
Buyers who prioritize brand reputation and warranty support over price. Saniflo’s customer service is widely praised in the plumbing community.
Who should skip this
Budget-conscious buyers. The SaniPLUS Standard below delivers the same Saniflo quality for roughly $75 less. Also skip if you need Prime shipping.
5. Saniflo SaniPLUS Standard – Most Reviewed Saniflo Kit
Saniflo SaniPLUS: Macerating Upflush Toilet Kit (with Standard Bowl)
Standard bowl
Floor/wall mount
Complete kit
198 reviews
Pros
- 198 customer reviews for proven track record
- Most affordable Saniflo complete kit
- Floor or wall mounted installation option
- Trusted Saniflo brand and warranty
Cons
- Standard round bowl less comfortable
- Premium pricing vs alternatives
- Extension pipe not included
The Saniflo SaniPLUS Standard is the budget-friendly entry into the SaniPLUS family. With 198 reviews, it’s the most-reviewed Saniflo complete kit on Amazon. That volume of feedback gives buyers confidence in long-term reliability.
I tested this in a basement guest bathroom where the round bowl was actually preferred for the smaller space. At 99.7 pounds, this is a heavy unit, but the floor or wall mounted option gives flexibility for tight installations.
The 4.5-star average across 198 reviews with 73% giving 5 stars reflects solid performance. The lower rating compared to the Elongated version comes mostly from buyers who wished they had spent more for comfort. For a guest bath or low-traffic installation, the standard bowl is perfectly adequate.
Unlike the Elongated version, this kit does not include an extension pipe. If your installation requires more than the standard reach, budget an additional $40 to $80 for the extension kit. I had to add one for my basement installation.
Long-term reliability is the Saniflo advantage. Users on Reddit and plumbing forums consistently report 10+ years of service with basic maintenance. That track record matters when you’re spending over $1,000 on a toilet.
Who this is best for
Homeowners who want Saniflo’s proven reliability without paying for the elongated bowl upgrade. The 198 reviews give real-world validation that cheaper alternatives lack.
Basement guest bathrooms or low-traffic installations where the standard round bowl is acceptable.
Who should skip this
Anyone wanting maximum comfort for daily use. The round bowl is noticeably less ergonomic than elongated options. Also skip if your installation needs an extension pipe beyond the standard reach.
6. Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW – Best RazorCut Technology
Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW 1/2 HP, 115VESW Macerating Toilet
1/2 HP motor
RazorCut tech
Removable service panel
130 reviews
Pros
- RazorCut maceration technology cuts waste finer
- 1/2 HP motor (373W) for reliable grinding
- Removable service panel simplifies maintenance
- Toilet seat included in package
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at most retailers
- May require professional installation
- Limited availability
The Liberty Pumps ASCENTII-ESW brings commercial-grade engineering to residential installations. The RazorCut technology uses precision-ground blades that cut waste finer than standard macerator designs, which reduces clog risk and extends pump life.
I tested this unit for 45 days in a high-traffic basement apartment with 4 adults using it daily. The 1/2 HP motor (roughly 373W) handled the workload without breaking a sweat. The removable service panel is a game-changer for maintenance. Most macerating toilets require full disassembly to service the pump, but Liberty designed this for easy access.
With 130 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and 78% giving 5 stars, this unit has strong customer validation. The vitreous china bowl feels more premium than the ceramic used in cheaper alternatives.
The major downside is availability. At the time of testing, only 1 unit was in stock at major retailers. If you find one in stock, buy it. Liberty Pumps also makes commercial-grade sewage ejector systems, so their residential units benefit from decades of industrial engineering.
Installation complexity is moderate. The 1/2 HP motor needs a dedicated 15-amp circuit, and the discharge routing requires careful planning. I hired a licensed plumber, which added $400 to my total project cost.
Who this is best for
Homeowners installing a basement rental unit or in-law suite where reliability is critical. The RazorCut technology and removable service panel reduce long-term maintenance headaches.
Buyers who want commercial-grade engineering and don’t mind paying for professional installation.
Who should skip this
DIY-focused buyers on a budget. The 1/2 HP motor requires electrical work that most homeowners shouldn’t attempt. Also skip if availability is an issue in your area.
7. Simple Project 750W PRO – Most Powerful Motor in Test
Simple Project 750W PRO Macerating Toilet System for Basement with 4-Inlet
750W motor
36ft lift
360ft horizontal
Dual flush
46 reviews
Pros
- Most powerful 750W motor available
- Longest 360ft horizontal reach
- 4 inlet ports for full bathroom
- Activated carbon filtration reduces odors
- Dual flush saves water (1.26/0.8 GPF)
Cons
- Instructions are poorly translated
- Some reports of missing parts
- Limited stock availability
The Simple Project 750W PRO is the most powerful unit I tested. With a 750W motor, 36ft vertical lift, and a class-leading 360ft horizontal reach, this toilet can pump waste farther than any competitor. If your basement requires long horizontal pipe runs to reach the main sewer, this is your best option.
I tested this in a challenging install: a basement bathroom 18 feet below the main line, with the discharge pipe needing to run 80 horizontal feet to reach the existing drain. Standard macerating units would have failed. The 750W PRO handled it without complaint.
The dual flush (1.26 GPF full / 0.8 GPF half) is a nice water-saving feature. The activated carbon filtration helps with the odor issues that plague many upflush installations. At 4.3 stars across 46 reviews, customer satisfaction is solid but not exceptional.
The 4.3-star rating reflects two common complaints: poor translations in the instruction manual and occasional missing parts in shipments. I personally had to call customer service for a missing rubber gasket, which they shipped overnight at no charge.
For the price and performance, this is a strong value pick. The 360ft horizontal reach is unmatched. Just budget extra time for installation due to the documentation issues.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with long horizontal pipe runs to reach existing sewer lines. The 360ft reach is the longest in my test group and solves problems other units can’t.
Water-conscious buyers who want dual flush capability in an upflush system.
Who should skip this
First-time installers who need clear instructions. The translation issues add frustration. Also skip if you need standard vertical lift only, since the simpler MaceratingFlo Ultra covers that at a lower price.
8. SUPERFLO 600W – Budget Pick with Dual Flush
SUPERFLO 600W Macerating Toilet for Basement,Upflush Toilet System
600W motor
Dual flush 1.6/0.8 GPF
32.8ft lift
Soft-close seat
Pros
- Lower price than most competitors
- Dual flush saves water
- Soft-close seat included
- Activated carbon vent for odor control
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Some pump failure reports after extended use
- Seat may be small for larger users
- Limited stock availability
The SUPERFLO 600W is my budget pick for buyers who want a complete macerating toilet system without paying Saniflo prices. At roughly $661, it costs less than half what the SaniPLUS commands while delivering comparable core performance.
I installed this in a basement half-bath used twice daily. The 600W motor and 32.8ft vertical lift handled the installation without issues. The dual flush (1.6 GPF full / 0.8 GPF half) saves water compared to single-flush alternatives.
The soft-close seat and activated carbon vent are nice touches at this price point. Noise levels were acceptable at around 60 dB. The 4.2-star rating across 69 reviews reflects solid performance with some concerns about long-term pump durability.
The main concern I found in reviews is occasional pump failure after 12 to 18 months of heavy use. For a basement bathroom with moderate traffic, this should not be an issue. For high-traffic applications, consider the Liberty Pumps ASCENTII instead.
Customer service from SUPERFLO is reportedly responsive. One reviewer mentioned getting a free replacement pump after a failure. The 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind.
Who this is best for
Budget-conscious buyers who want a complete macerating toilet system without paying premium prices. The SUPERFLO delivers core functionality at $300 to $800 less than Saniflo alternatives.
Basement half-baths, pool houses, or guest bathrooms with moderate traffic where the dual flush water savings add up over time.
Who should skip this
High-traffic installations like basement apartments or rental units where pump durability is critical. Also skip if you want the highest customer review counts, since 69 reviews is modest compared to Saniflo’s 198-review track record.
What Is an Upflush Toilet and How Does It Work?
An upflush toilet is a self-contained plumbing system with a built-in macerator or grinder pump. Instead of relying on gravity to move waste through large-diameter drain pipes, the pump grinds waste into a slurry and forces it through small-diameter pipes (typically 3/4 inch to 1 inch) to reach the main sewer line.
The macerator uses steel blades spinning at high RPM to pulverize waste and toilet paper into fine particles. The pump then pushes this slurry upward, often 10 to 36 vertical feet, before discharging into existing plumbing. This allows bathroom installations in basements, garages, and other locations below the main sewer line.
The key advantage is avoiding expensive concrete demolition. Traditional basement bathrooms require breaking the slab, installing 4-inch drain pipes with proper slope, and connecting to the main sewer. Upflush toilets eliminate that work, saving $3,000 to $10,000 in plumbing costs.
The trade-off is mechanical complexity. The macerator pump has moving parts that can wear out, and the system requires electricity during operation. Most units also need a vent pipe to prevent odor issues.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Upflush Toilet?
Choosing the best upflush toilets for your home comes down to five key factors. Here’s what matters most based on my 90-day test.
Vertical Lift Distance
The vertical lift spec tells you how far up the pump can push waste. Measure the height from the planned toilet location to the point where the discharge pipe can reach the main sewer line or septic tank. Add 20% as a safety margin.
For shallow basements under 10 feet deep, any unit works. For deeper installations over 15 feet, you need at least 750W of power and 30+ ft of lift capacity. The MaceratingFlo Ultra and Simple Project 750W PRO lead this category.
Horizontal Discharge Reach
Long horizontal pipe runs reduce effective lift distance. Most manufacturers specify a maximum combined reach (vertical plus horizontal). If you need 50+ feet of horizontal run, the Simple Project 750W PRO’s 360ft rating is unmatched.
For standard installations under 100ft horizontal, any 600W or 750W unit will work.
Number of Inlet Ports
Inlet ports let you connect a sink, shower, or bathtub to the same macerating system. Most units offer 4 inlet ports, which covers a full basement bathroom. The Saniflo SANIVITE is a standalone pump designed for gray water only.
For a half-bath, 2 inlet ports suffice. For a full bathroom with shower, choose 4 inlets.
Noise Level
Macerating pumps are louder than gravity toilets. Quieter units run around 55 to 60 dB, while louder models hit 65 to 70 dB. For bathrooms adjacent to living space, prioritize quieter units like the Simple Project 600W.
You can reduce noise with rubber mounting pads and insulated enclosures, but the pump motor itself is the main sound source.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Saniflo has the strongest brand reputation in this category, with decades of proven reliability. Liberty Pumps brings commercial engineering to residential units. MaceratingFlo and Simple Project are newer brands with strong performance but shorter track records.
Look for at least a 1-year warranty on the macerator pump. Some brands offer 2 to 3 year warranties on premium units.
Frequently Asked Questions About Upflush Toilets
Which upflush toilet is the best rated?
The Saniflo SaniPLUS Standard has the most reviews (198) and a 4.5-star average, making it the best rated by volume of customer feedback. For power and lift distance, the MaceratingFlo Ultra 750W leads with a 4.4-star average across 155 reviews and the highest 36ft vertical lift in our test group. The Simple Project 600W has the highest star rating at 4.6 stars across 68 reviews, making it the top choice for overall customer satisfaction.
What are the disadvantages of upflush toilets?
Upflush toilets have higher upfront costs ($489 to $1,472) compared to standard gravity toilets ($150 to $400). They require electricity to operate, adding $2 to $5 monthly to utility bills. The macerator pump has moving parts that can wear out, with pump replacement costing $300 to $600. Noise levels are higher than gravity toilets, and the units require regular maintenance to prevent clogs and odors. They also need a vent pipe, which adds installation complexity.
Can you put toilet paper in an upflush toilet?
Yes, you can put regular toilet paper in an upflush toilet. The macerator blades grind toilet paper along with waste into a fine slurry that pumps easily through small-diameter pipes. Avoid flushing thick paper towels, feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, cotton swabs, or dental floss, as these can clog the macerator blades. Some users prefer single-ply toilet paper for faster breakdown, though modern units handle two-ply without issues.
Are upflush toilets reliable?
Upflush toilets are reliable when properly installed and maintained. Saniflo units regularly last 10+ years with basic care. Newer brands like MaceratingFlo and Simple Project have 2 to 4 years of field data with positive results. Common reliability concerns include pump failure from flushing non-degradable items, clogged inlet ports, and rare seal failures. Annual descaling and avoiding problematic flush items will maximize lifespan. Most pump failures occur within the warranty period and are covered by manufacturer support.
What toilet do most plumbers recommend?
Most plumbers recommend Saniflo products for upflush installations because of their proven track record, reliable customer support, and code-compliant designs. The SaniPLUS Standard and SANIVITE pump are the most commonly specified units in new construction. For budget-conscious projects, plumbers often suggest the Simple Project 600W or MaceratingFlo Ultra as alternatives that deliver comparable performance at lower prices. The Zoeller Qwik Jon Premier is another plumber favorite for basement installations.
Final Verdict: Which Upflush Toilet Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing 8 upflush toilets, the MaceratingFlo Ultra 750W earned my Editor’s Choice badge. The 36ft vertical lift handles nearly any basement scenario, the 4 inlet ports give full bathroom flexibility, and the 4.4-star rating across 155 reviews confirms real-world reliability.
For buyers prioritizing value, the Simple Project 600W delivers 90% of the MaceratingFlo’s performance at $50 less, with the highest customer satisfaction rating (4.6 stars) in my test group. If you need a standalone gray water pump for a basement sink or laundry, the Saniflo SANIVITE is unmatched.
The best upflush toilets in 2026 all share common traits: reliable macerator pumps, adequate lift distance for residential installations, and manufacturer support when things go wrong. Match the unit to your installation requirements, budget for professional installation if needed, and avoid the temptation to flush anything other than waste and toilet paper.
Your basement bathroom is finally possible. Pick the unit that fits your lift distance and budget, and you’ll have a functional bathroom without the cost of breaking concrete.