Marine Toilets: Comfort and Convenience Aboard Your Boat
When it comes to comfort and convenience on your boat, choosing the right marine toilet is essential. Whether you opt for manual or electric toilets, each system has its advantages and features. Here’s a guide to help you select the best marine toilet based on your needs and the configuration of your vessel.
Types of Marine Toilets
- Maintenance Kits & Parts: Electric pumps, macerator pumps, and conversion kits for electric systems.
1. Manual Marine Toilets
Manual toilets are a popular choice among boaters for their simplicity and reliability. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fixed Installation: Manual toilets must be installed permanently on your boat and connected to a fresh water tank for flushing and a black water tank for waste.
- Operation: Fresh water for flushing is drawn using a manual pump, and waste is evacuated by the same mechanism. The pump needs to be activated with each use.
- Water Supply Flexibility: Some models can draw water directly from the sea for flushing, which is useful for conserving fresh water on board.
- Advantages: No need for electrical connection, simplifying installation and reducing the risk of failure.
2. Electric Marine Toilets
For those who seek comfort similar to domestic toilets, electric toilets are the ideal choice.
- Fixed Installation & Electrical Connection: These toilets require permanent installation and an electrical connection (12V or 24V). They must also be connected to a fresh water supply or seawater, and a black water tank.
- Operation: A simple button press activates the electric pump to fill and empty the bowl. They are often equipped with an integrated macerator, allowing the use of smaller diameter pipes for waste evacuation.
- Flexibility & Comfort: Electric toilets offer the ability to place the black water tank farther away from the toilet, optimizing space.
- Advantages: Increased comfort with less physical effort required compared to manual toilets.
Choosing the Right Marine Toilet
- Toilet Dimensions: Space is often limited on boats, so consider the following:
- Available Space: Measure the space where you plan to install the toilet. For smaller spaces, consider a more compact model or a chemical toilet.
- Pump Orientation: For manual toilets, check the pump’s position and whether it is adjustable.
- Model Adaptability: Some models, such as Dometic's MasterFlush 71 and 72, offer a 360° rotating base for a perfect fit.
Water Flush System
The water source for flushing varies depending on the type of toilet:
- Chemical Toilets: The flush water is contained in an integrated tank that you fill before use.
- Manual Toilets: Typically, the manual pump draws water from the fresh water tank.
- Electric Toilets: You can choose whether the electric pump is connected to a fresh water tank or draws water directly from the sea.
Materials of the Toilet
The material choice impacts the toilet’s appearance and comfort:
- Toilet Base: Ceramic or porcelain bases are more aesthetically pleasing than plastic ABS or stainless steel.
- Seat & Lid: A wooden lid offers more comfort than a plastic one.
Noise from Toilets
Noise is an important consideration, especially for electric toilets:
- Source of Noise: The main source of noise is the electric pump. Some models, like Dometic’s MasterFlush 7165, have a separate pump that can be installed in a less noise-sensitive location.
- Noise Reduction: If noise is a concern, look for models specifically designed to minimize sound levels.
Regulations on Boat Toilets
It’s crucial to follow regulations on wastewater disposal:
- Prohibited Near the Coast: It’s prohibited to discharge wastewater within 3 nautical miles from the coast. At port, you must use the provided pump-out system.
- Beyond 3 Nautical Miles: You may discharge black water at sea if it has been macerated and disinfected.
- Speed and Distance: For authorized discharge, the boat must be traveling at a minimum speed of 4 knots.
- Wastewater Holding Tank: Boats built after 2008 must be equipped with a holding tank for wastewater.
Practical Tips
- Choosing the Right Tank: Choose your fresh water and black water tanks carefully.
- Plumbing & Wiring: Use high-quality pipes and fittings for the plumbing, and ensure proper electrical wiring for electric toilets.
This guide should help you make an informed decision when choosing the best marine toilet for your boat, ensuring comfort, convenience, and compliance with marine regulations.