How to Fix the Most Common Vacflush Toilet Problems

Fixing The 3 Most Common VacuFlush Toilet Problems

Dometic’s VacuFlush™ marine toilets are high-quality, powerful toilet systems that are only sold exclusively through distributors and dealers. VacuFlush™ toilets have a sophisticated waste disposal system that use stored vacuum vessels and diaphragm pumps to send waste to a holding tank. These marine toilets require very little water for operation, approximately one pint per flush, and are odor free. The discrete design and functionality of these marine toilets allows them to be located virtually anywhere. VacuFlus™ toilets require routine maintenance and may require the occasional tune-up. If you’re experiencing problems with your Dometic VacuFlush™ pedal-operated or electronic-operated marine toilet, there are a few simple ways to troubleshoot and get back to smooth flushin’ in no time.

General VacuFlush™ Vacuum Pump Problems

If your vacuum pump will not shut off, isolate the toilet by shutting off the water, then insert the vacuum tester into the 1” orifice of the funnel in the bottom of the toilet. If the vacuum exceeds 10” and the switch does not shut off, replace the vacuum switch. If the pump stops and the gauge reading drops, follow the line back to the inlet of the vacuum generator or vacuum tank and test the tank for any leaks. Duckbills, bellows, O-rings, and sealing grommets are all possible leak culprits. Check and replace these components periodically to avoid any unsavory surprises down the road.

VacuFlush™ Bowl Problems

Foot Pedal Operated Toilets
Owners of pedal operated VacuFlush™ toilets may experience some problems involving limited water retention within the bowl. This problem is best remedied by changing the bowl seals and tightening the band clamp. If water is not entering the bowl at all, check that the mushroom cap is on the water valve stem. Make sure the screen behind 1/2” water line connection is not blocked or preventing water flow.

Electronic Operated Toilets
If water is not entering the bowl, verify that water pressure is present. If so, the water valve may have failed, or the inlet screen is blocked with debris. Minimal water flow or a small trickle is indicative of a partial blockage of the water valve screen. Change the bowl seal and check to ensure that nothing is obstructing the half ball from fully closing over the seal. Water valve screens should be maintained to avoid buildup of debris.

Water Leaks

FootPedal Operated Toilets
If your Dometic VacuFlush™ toilet is leaking from the base, the floor flange seal most likely needs replacement. If the leak is coming from behind the toilet unit, check the ½” sealing grommet or vacuum breaker. If the leak starts from under the foot pedal, check the ½” water line connection or water valve.

Electronic Operated Toilets
There are a several leak points in these toilet bowls that will need to be checked if water is not being retained. Check bowl seals, O-rings on the shaft that rotates half ball, O-ring at bottom of base, and funnel/adapter screwed to the floor. If these appear to be faulty, these parts should be replaced.

If you’re still struggling to troubleshoot and repair your VacuFlush™ toilet,  contact Environmental Marine. We’re happy to help you better understand your Dometic sanitation system.