The sanibroyeur has the advantage of being very easy to install, especially where traditional toilets are not possible for technical reasons. Installation of this type of system is quick and easy, making it very practical. The sanibroyeur’s evacuation system works in a relatively simple way: by means of a motor activated by electricity. Sometimes, however, the propellers responsible for grinding the waste get jammed, causing the sani-macerator to become blocked. Clogging is a common problem, often due to misuse or lack of maintenance. Here are 5 tips from Minutes Maison on how to unclog a sani-broyeur.
What is a sanibroyeur?
A sani-crusher is an electrical device that crushes waste and flush water, then pumps them out through small-diameter pipes. It is designed to be connected to a simple wastewater pipe and offers unrivalled installation flexibility. However, a clogged sanibroyeur can cause major inconvenience, from unpleasant odors to sanitary overflows. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of these blockages, solutions to resolve them effectively and tips on how to prevent them.
A French invention
A sanibroyeur is an indispensable piece of equipment for many households, invented in the 1950s by the Société Française d’Assainissement (SFA). It works on a simple but effective principle: waste and flush water are crushed by rotating blades, then evacuated by a pump through small-diameter pipes. This system makes it possible to install toilets in places where conventional drainage would be impossible, offering a practical and flexible solution for many homes.
Why does my sanibroyeur toilet clog?
There are a number of reasons why a sani-broyeur toilet can become blocked, including misuse, obsolescence, installation problems or the use of chemicals. For example, throwing unsuitable items such as wipes, condoms or tampons into the bowl can quickly lead to a clog. What’s more, limescale build-up or the use of inappropriate toilet paper can also lead to blockages. It’s important to understand these causes to know how to effectively solve and prevent problems.
1- The hanger technique
If your sanibroyeur is blocked, it may be due to a clogged mechanism. To relaunch it, a hanger can prove effective. All you have to do is unfold it into a long metal rod and try to move the clog towards the drain. An old cloth can be wrapped around the hanger to help push the stopper out more easily. Before doing so, be sure to turn off the water and unplug the sanibroyeur. In many cases, this technique will quickly restore the sanibroyeur to working order.
It’s important to understand these causes to know how to effectively resolve and prevent clogging.
2- Unclogging products
If the hanger technique has proved ineffective, specialized unclogging products can help. These can be found in supermarkets, drugstores and DIY stores. These chemical products, often based on caustic soda, will dissolve the clog that prevents the sanibroyeur from working properly. They are generally effective within a few hours. However, not all products are compatible with a sanibroyeur. Check the instructions to avoid damaging the motor. When handling these products, it’s essential to protect yourself, especially your eyes and hands, as they are aggressive to both skin and pipes. More natural products such as white vinegar, soda crystals, or preparations based on vinegar, bicarbonate, salt and water can also do the trick.
3- Tools
To avoid having to use these chemical products, and in a more ecological approach, you can use objects to unblock the sanibroyeur. A ferret, for example. Similar to a coat hanger, its long stem makes it easy to reach clogs and move around. But it’s still more flexible, so you get better results. The only drawback is that you have to use it correctly, otherwise you risk damaging toilet enamel. Electric ferrets are also available, but at a high price. To find out how to unblock a sanibroyeur, it’s important to detail practical solutions such as the use of a manual or electric ferret, stressing the importance of maintenance to avoid blockages.
Another solution: the vacuum plunger. By using suction movements, the clog can be dislodged. Vacuum plungers are very easy and economical to use. Some models are equipped with a pump to increase efficiency.
4- High-pressure water
For the more daring, those who aren’t afraid of dismantling their sanibroyeur, the high-pressure water technique is recommended. The principle is quite simple: simply place a jet of water at the drain and gradually increase the pressure to dissolve the clog. It’s essential to dismantle the appliance beforehand, and to start with low pressure to avoid damaging the pipes. Another advantage of dismantling the sani-broyeur is that you can access the waste inlet and outlet pipes, enabling you to pinpoint the source of the problem.
5- Call in a professional
If all these techniques have not proved their worth, it’s time to call in a professional. This will avoid wasting time and further damaging the sanibroyeur. With his experience and equipment, the plumber will get rid of the blockage in no time. But don’t forget to tell him it’s a sanibroyeur, because not all professionals have the right equipment for this type of toilet.
With sanibroyeur toilets, it’s advisable to take precautions to avoid clogging. Don’t throw wipes, condoms or tampons into the bowl. Anti-scale products should also be used regularly.
