My Mysterious Macerator

[Ricky Prevete]

Peggie--On my 1994 boat, the macerator sometimes works perfectly. But at other times, it spins and whines but pumps nothing out. Later, after doing nothing to the system, it works again. I've made sure that the thu-hull is open and that the waste cap on deck is closed tightly. I've also taken apart the motor and seen that the impeller is in perfect condition. Do you have any ideas on this?Also, since the acidity of urine is harmful to my aluminum holding tank, is there any type of liquid that is chemically a base that would neutralize the urine? I'd REALLY like to postpone changing that tank as long as possible. Thanks.

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Change the impeller...

Damage to the vanes--prob'ly causes by friction heat from running dry over time--that can produce exactly the symptoms you describe aren't visible to the naked eye, especially an eye that doesn't know what to look for. In fact, I'd change the impeller every spring as a matter of course...it's what's known as "preventive" maintenance.No...there's nothing you can put in the tank to neutralize the corrosive effects of urine.

 

[Brian Ranniger]

Baking Soda

I didn't realize pee was that acidic, maybe drinking more to dilute it would help. I suppose you could mix some baking soda with water and treat the tank on occasion, how much I don't know though.

 

[Steve Dion]

Brian!

Have you thought about mixing up a mixture of baking soda and water and drinking it before you use the head. This would probably help your stomach and you holding tank.You know in these times, we should make do with less, or would that be more? <haha>

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Sorry, Brian...it doesn't matter WHAT you drink...

Because the corrosive nature urine has nothing to do with whether it's acidic. Vinegar--which is recommended for breaking up sea water calcium carbonates--is HIGHLY acidic...but it doesn't corrode.

 

[david lewis]

proper vinager applications

i have read with minor interest the thread about vinegar in the head as proposed by Ms. Peggie. I have another method of applying vinegar to the head. First make a salad out of assorted vegetables and fruits. Next sprinkle with a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, and some herbs and spices. Next eat the salad. Wait several hours for the mixture to digest. Apply the byproducts of this process to the head. Flush vigorously.Best of luck on the results.dave