Macerator pump for an RV

It is a dirty smelly task, but one that we need to talk about. Dumping our waste-holding tanks! One device that can help is a macerator pump for an RV. Perfect to bring along for emergency uses when you can’t reach your sewer hookup with the standard RV sewer hose.

Another problem that may come up is being on a campsite where the sewer hookup is on an incline. Been there before and trying to level up my RV so it was set above the sewer drain was a real pain.

In case you have never heard of this nifty device, we will tell you what it is and some unique situations where it may come in handy.

What is a macerator pump for an RV?

A macerator pump, or RV sewer pump, is a device used to liquefy solid waste for easier removal and disposal from holding tanks. The pump pulverizes the solid waste as it passes through the macerator before sending it into the wastewater drain line. This allows for a fast removal system with less mess and odor compared to a traditional septic system.

I bring a macerator sewer pump along with me as a backup or for emergency situations that require a little finesse.

Basically, a macerator pump is like a garbage disposal for your waste holding tanks.

Macerator pump uses

Pumping up inclines: If you have ever been at a campsite on a hill, you can definitely relate. It is hard enough getting your rig level, but also having to make sure your sewer line hookup is in reach.

Well not with a macerator pump to push it up the incline for you. All you have to worry about is getting your RV level, so you are comfortable. The macerator pump will take care of the rest.

You cannot only pump it up a hill but also move the waste a father distance without having to tote around a 50-foot sewer hose. With a macerator pump, you can use a standard garden hose which is much more manageable than the usual 4-inch sewer hose.

Pumping distance: A macerator pump is also perfect for dumping your holding tanks at your home. I can skip the busy dump station at the campground and wait till I get to the comforts of my own property. Not only is it more convenient, but as you can imagine much cleaner.

I back my RV in my driveway next to the house and use the macerator pump to drain into a sewer cleanout located in my backyard. It is about 50 feet away but with the macerator pump, it is quite easy to dump the tanks.

Extended camping: By using a macerator pump and external holding tank while boondocking is a game changer. If you live stationary for long periods it can be used for dumping into an external tank and have it pumped on a regular basis.

With this setup you use your holding tanks as normal, but once they start to fill you can dump them into the external holding tank. The beauty of the macerator pump is the distance you can have your external holding tank from your unit.

Without a macerator pump, you need the external holding tank to be below your RV and pretty close so gravity can do its thing. With a macerator pump, your external holding tank is rarely an issue.

AUTOMATTERS 12V RV Macerator Pump, Trailer Waste Water Dumping, Portable, and Quick Release Waste Pump, for Marine/RV/Campers

Check Amazon Price Here

AUTOMATTERS 12V RV Macerator Pump

Pro Tips

Try and reduce or eliminate solids such as toilet paper and feminine products as they can clog and reduce the life of your macerator pump.
Using a clear elbow attachment between the holding tank connector and pump helps monitor pump activity and lets you see when tanks are clean.

Pros and Cons of using a Macerator pump

RV macerator pump pros

Easily pumps up small hills and inclines from RV to sewer hookups or drains.
Extends boondocking trips or time between dumps using an external holding tank.
A macerator pump can move waste a farther distance than using a standard RV sewer hose that relies on gravity.
Less mess (usually)
The pump can easily be stored for emergency use when in a pinch.

RV macerator pump cons

A macerator pump can be expensive
You need to take care of what you put into your holding tanks to protect the investment. Reduce or eliminate the use of toilet paper, feminine products, etc.
Dumping your holding tanks can take a little more time than using a standard RV sewer hose system.
Pump pressure can cause worn gaskets, drain valves, and fittings to leak or fail completely. You can imagine the problem with this if you are in the middle of the process.
Requires more maintenance and monitoring of your RV system.