On our 38 Hunter, on the control panel there is the Macerator switch. Is this to be turned on at all times or for certain periods of times after use of the restroom?
Macerator question
- Thread starter pumpkinpie
- Start date
It PROBABLY pumps out the blackwater tank when the thru-hull is open and should only be run when that is your intention.
Don't use the macerator within the 3 mile limit. If there is a shore based pump out station, better to use that and let the municipal sewage treatment plant handle the waste.
Buy Peggie Hall's book, you need to learn how the entire system works. Good luck.
https://shop.sailboatowners.com//prod.php?53615
https://shop.sailboatowners.com//prod.php?53615
Neither one...that switch has nothing to do with toilet operation. What's commonly referred to as just a macerator is a macerator PUMP. As others have already said, it should only be turned on to dump the tank, which can only be done legally when you're out in the Gulf at least 3 miles outside Tampa Bay.
I'm guessing you're a bit new at dealing with marine sanitation systems. If so, my book (see link in my signature below) can help you get it all sorted out. The title (my publisher's idea) is a bit misleading...'cuz although it does deal with every source of odor on a boat and how to cure, or better yet PREVENT 'em, it's actually a comprehensive "marine toilets and sanitation systems 101" manual that explains the laws, describes all the types of systems and how they work, and will help you learn how to operate and maintain your system to prevent 99% of problems instead of having to cure 'em. 'Cuz you get to do any preventive maintenance on your terms when it's convenient...the need to cure a problem never happens when it is! And I'm always glad to answer any questions it doesn't.
--Peggie
As others have said the breaker on the panel that says macerator activates the system. There is also a toggle switch on the same panel right above the bilge pump switch that activates the Macerator. It pumps the holding tank.
There are two valves you need to be aware of. The through hull valve located below the cabin floor at the base of the stairs. And then there is also a valve under the floor in the aft cabin on the port side right in front of the macerator.
Here in the Great Lakes overboard discharge is prohibited and in fact it is required that you have the system configured so that the valve is locked out so that overboard discharge cannot be done.
There are two valves you need to be aware of. The through hull valve located below the cabin floor at the base of the stairs. And then there is also a valve under the floor in the aft cabin on the port side right in front of the macerator.
Here in the Great Lakes overboard discharge is prohibited and in fact it is required that you have the system configured so that the valve is locked out so that overboard discharge cannot be done.
He's in Tampa, where I'm sure he can get pumped out. And I hope he plans to do a lot of sailing outside Tampa Bay in the Gulf...staying in Tampa Bay all the time can get pretty boring.Aw man, that a looooong way to go to get pumped out.
-Peggie