Introduction

As a boat owner, having the right marine toilet on board is critical for comfort. There are so many brands and models to choose from. It is hard trying to select the best option for your needs and budget.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about buying a marine toilet. We’ll start by covering the basics. What exactly is a marine toilet and what makes them different than other toilets? We’ll then discuss key factors to consider when selecting one, such as water usage, pricing, installation, and maintenance.

The main focus, however, will be providing detailed profiles of the top eight marine toilet manufacturers. We will discuss eight brands, including Albin Pump Marine, Dometic, Johnson Pump, Raritan Engineering, Jabsco, Xylem, Thetford, and Raritan. Then, we’ll assess the effectiveness, tank capacity, price, durability, and overall quality of their models.

By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to choose the best marine toilet for your vessel and boating needs. So let’s get started!

Lift off your boat covers, hook up your boat trailers, and prepare to learn about marine toilets! Whether you are shopping for a premium addition to your pontoon boat or for discount parts on Wholesale Marine, we have the perfect guide for you!

Understanding Marine Toilets.

Before jumping into the different brands, it’s important to understand what sets marine toilets apart from residential land-based toilets.

Marine toilets are specially designed to function properly in the cramped confines of a boat, where space is limited. They use seawater or freshwater for flushing instead of direct connections to water lines and sewer systems. The wastewater is stored in an internal holding tank that must be emptied at pump-out stations onshore.

Because a marine toilet’s holding tank capacity is limited, they are designed to use as little water as possible per flush. The flushing mechanisms also need to be powerful enough to prevent clogging and properly clear out waste.

Marine toilets must withstand the salt water and be able to handle the rocking motions of waves. Durability and reliability are key when you don’t have easy access to repairs while out on the water.

Let’s now examine what you should be thinking about as you shop for your boat’s next marine toilet.

Key Considerations for Buying a Marine Toilet!

When evaluating different marine toilet models, there are several factors you’ll want to take into account.

• Water Usage. How much water is required per flush? Lower water usage extends the capacity of your holding tank.
• Tank Capacity. How large is the waste holding tank? Match this to your typical trip duration.
• Effectiveness. Does the flush mechanism fully clear the bowl? Can it handle solids without clogging?
• Installation. Will the toilet easily fit in your boat’s bathroom? How difficult is the installation process?
• Price. What is the unit’s cost relative to its quality and features?
• Maintenance. Are replacement parts and repairs readily available if needed?
• Warranties & Support. Does the brand stand behind their products if issues arise?

Prioritizing the factors above based on your boating habits and budget will help narrow down the choices.

You’ll also need to decide between electric or manual flush operation. Electric marine toilets are easier to use but require wiring and electricity. Manual models use a hand pump instead.

Next, we’ll go over whether DIY installation is realistic or if you should seek professional assistance.

DIY Installation or Professional Assistance?

When purchasing a new marine toilet, one decision you’ll need to make is whether to install it yourself or hire professional help.

Tackling a marine toilet installation solo can certainly save money if you have some plumbing experience. But it’s also easy to underestimate the challenge involved.

Working in the tight space of a marine head often requires moving yourself into difficult spots. You also need to handle venting and waste connections while ensuring all is properly sealed and secured.

If your existing system needs changes to adapt to a new toilet model, that adds more challenge. Any mistakes during the installation or using subpar components can result in annoying leaks or other issues down the road.

Hiring a professional marine plumber guarantees the job is done right the first time. An experienced installation team can complete the entire process in a fraction of the time while you relax. They also handle any custom fabrication needed and will properly dispose of old toilet components.

Paying for professional installation may cost $500-1000 or more depending on the boat and project scope. While not inexpensive, you gain peace of mind knowing your new toilet will function reliably for years to come.

Ultimately the DIY vs pro decision depends on your toilet model, budget, confidence in your skills, and tolerance for hassles. Either way, be sure to thoroughly research the installation steps before getting started.

Now let’s examine eight top marine toilet manufacturers in detail…

The Top 8 Marine Toilet Brands!

There are numerous companies producing marine toilets, but a few major brands consistently rise to the top in reviews and popularity. We’ll compare the eight best marine toilet manufacturers across critical categories to help you determine the ideal choice.

West Marine is a great place to start when purchasing toilets and toilet parts. They have a range of options and even offer free shipping on some items.

Make a search query and discover their wide inventory. Along with the eight brands below, they also have a number of other items.

Boat seats, boat covers, portable toilets, fci watermakers, environmental marine toilets, the electric marine toilet 12v, water pumps, environmental water pumps, wakesurf boards, boat seats for marine toilets, boat covers for washrooms, environmental portable toilets, and even more! Pick up everything you need at West Marine.

1. Albin Pump Marine.

Albin Pump Marine specializes exclusively in marine sanitation equipment. Owned by Whale, the company has over 60 years of experience crafting heavy duty marine toilets and related plumbing components.

Their toilets utilize robust metal construction and industrial-grade macerators to handle the toughest waste. Models are available in low water usage electric or manual configurations. Albin’s toilets are precision engineered for strength and reliability.

Water Usage. 1 pint per flush.

Tank Size. 10-30+ gallons.

Price. Very costly.

Effectiveness. Industrial grade macerator. very effective.

2. Dometic Marine Toilets.

Dometic is a long-time leader in marine sanitation equipment and other boat systems. They offer user-friendly electric and manual marine toilets to suit budgets from entry-level to luxury.

Dometic toilets feature porcelain bowls for home-like aesthetics and comfort. Their dual-action siphon jets generate strong flushing power while conserving water. Expect reliable construction and easily accessible components.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 5-50+ gallon capacity.

Price. Somewhat costly to very costly.

Effectiveness. Powerful dual jets. Effective performance.

3. Johnson Pump Marine Toilets.

Johnson Pump marine toilets provide simplicity and reliability at reasonable costs. Their durable injection-molded plastic construction is corrosion-resistant and easy to service.

Manual pump models operate smoothly with single piston action. Electric variants use robust 12V macerator pumps for strong yet low water usage flushing. Johnson Pump toilets are competitively priced workhorses.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 5-20 gallons.

Price Range. Very cheap to slightly costly.

Effectiveness. Reliable flushing ability.

4. Raritan Engineering.

With over 50 years in the marine industry, Raritan Engineering is synonymous with innovative, quality marine toilets. Their products strike an appealing balance of residential and commercial features.

Raritan toilets employ porcelain bowls and bone-colored lids for upscale aesthetics. Powerful electric macerators and manual pistons generate strong flushing flow. Expect excellent reliability and simpler servicing than comparably priced models.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 10-50 gallons.

Price Range. More Costly.

Effectiveness. Innovative designs, reliable performance.

5. Jabsco Marine Toilets.

Jabsco is trusted worldwide for their marine toilet innovations spanning over 70 years. Their Twist ‘n’ Lock bowl mounting system allows tool-free removal, simplifying servicing.

Robust metal and ceramic construction paired with industrial-grade macerators enable Jabsco toilets to handle intensive use. Electric and manual flush models have low water consumption plus customizable bowl heights.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 6-50+ gallons.

Price Range. More Costly.

Effectiveness. Innovative designs, heavy duty performance.

6. Xylem Boat Toilets.

Xylem offers simplified solutions for marine sanitation needs under their Jabsco and Rule brands. Their compact electric toilets provide home-like porcelain aesthetics.

Xylem utilizes Vortex vacuum generators for strong yet low water usage flushing. The macerator design resists clogs while grinding waste. Backed by a 2-year warranty, their toilets deliver reliable functionality.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 10-30 gallons.

Price Range. Somewhat costly.

Effectiveness. Innovative Vortex vacuum technology, effective performance.

7. Thetford Boat Toilets.

Thetford is a prominent brand specializing in both portable and installed marine toilets. Their Aqua Magic systems feature household size porcelain bowls in electric and manual configurations.

Thetford utilizes a single piston pump on manual units and robust macerators on electric models to provide residential-like flushing. Expect excellent value plus easily accessible components for simplified servicing.

Water Usage. 1-1.5 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 5-50 gallons.

Price Range. Ranges from very cheap to somewhat expensive.

Effectiveness. Household-style performance, effective flushing.

8. Raritan Marine Toilets.

In addition to the models covered earlier, Raritan also produces the Sealand and Martyr brands of marine toilets. These durable, entry-level models utilize manual hand pumps for water conservation.

Sealand and Martyr toilets provide reliable, no-frills functionality even under heavy usage. Their injection-molded construction resists corrosion, impacts, and wear-and-tear. Replacement parts are readily available for simplified servicing.

Water Usage. 1-2 pints per flush.

Tank Size. 5-20 gallons.

Price Range. Very inexpensive.

Effectiveness. Simple, reliable manual operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I get an electric marine toilet? Are marine electric toilets better?

A: Yes, an electric marine toilet can be a good choice. Electric toilets are better because they are easier to use and require less effort. They have a motor that helps flush the waste away, so you don’t need to manually pump the water. Electric toilets also often have features like adjustable bowl heights and low water consumption. Overall, they provide a more convenient and comfortable experience.

Q: Can you connect a bidet to a marine toilet?

A: Yes, it is possible to connect a bidet to a marine toilet. However, it may require some modifications or additional plumbing work. It is recommended to consult with a professional plumber or the manufacturer of the marine toilet to ensure compatibility and proper installation.

Q: Are marine toilets easy to clean?
A: Marine toilets can be easy to clean, but it depends on the specific model and design. Some toilets have features like removable bowls or quick-release mechanisms that make cleaning more convenient. It’s important to regularly clean and maintain your marine toilet to prevent odors and keep it in good working condition. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and use appropriate cleaning products to avoid damaging the toilet.

Q: What are some tips to keep in mind when installing a marine toilet?

Tip #1. Gather Your Tools. Make sure you have all the tools you need before starting

Before you start, get your tools together. You need the right ones. This means you won’t stop in the middle to find more tools. It makes the job go smooth.

List of essential tools for the installation. Here’s what you need. A screwdriver. A wrench. Sealant. Measuring tape. A saw. A drill. These tools help you fit, cut, and seal things. Make sure they’re ready and close by.

Tip #2. Read the Manual. It is important to fully read and understand the installation manual. The manual guides you. It tells you how to put the toilet in. It has pictures and steps. Read it first. Understand it. This will help you do it right.

Tips for interpreting and following the instructions. Look at the pictures. Follow the steps one by one. If something is hard to understand, read it again. Take your time. Make sure it makes sense to you.

If you don’t understand anything, be sure to call a pro instead of risking your marine toilet.

Tip #3. Prepare the Area. Clean and prepare the installation area. The spot where the toilet goes must be clean. Take everything out. Wipe it down. Dry it. This helps everything stick and stay put.

Remember the importance of ensuring the area is suitable for the toilet. The area should be flat. It should be strong enough to hold the toilet. Make sure it’s in reach of water lines and waste tanks. This is where the toilet will connect.

Tip #4. Positioning the Toilet. Find guidance on how to properly position the marine toilet. Place the toilet where you planned. Make sure it’s not too close to walls or doors. You need space around it. Check the fit. Be sure it’s right before you fix it in place.

Consider these things when choosing the location. Think about comfort. There must be room to sit and stand. Consider privacy. Also, think about how pipes will connect. Pipes should run smooth without sharp bends.

Tip #5. Secure the Toilet. Follow a step-by-step process of securing the toilet in place. Now, fix the toilet to the floor. Use bolts and screws. Drill holes carefully. Put the toilet over the holes. Put the screws in. Tighten them. Not too tight, but just right.

Remember the importance of ensuring the toilet is securely installed. A loose toilet is bad. It can break or leak. Make sure it doesn’t move. It should be solid, like part of the boat. This way, it’s safe to use, even when the water is rough.

Tip #6. Connect the Plumbing. Follow instructions for connecting the plumbing to the marine toilet. Next, connect the water. Then, connect the waste pipe. Use the manual. It shows how. Make sure everything matches. The pipes should be tight and right.

Follow tips for ensuring proper plumbing connection. Check every joint. Use hose clamps where needed. They grip the pipes. No drips. No leaks. Make sure it’s all snug. This keeps the water where it should be.

Tip #7. Test the Toilet. Remember the importance of testing the toilet before finalizing the installation. Testing is key. Flush the toilet a few times. Watch for leaks. Listen for odd sounds. Everything should work smooth. If not, check the connections again.

Follow steps for testing the functionality of the marine toilet. First, flush with no waste. See if it fills and empties right. Next, try with a bit of toilet paper. It should go down easy. This tests if the waste path is clear.

Tip #8. Seal the Connections. Follow instructions for sealing the connections to prevent leaks. Use sealant on the threads. Wrap them first. Then screw them together. Check the sealant type. It must be okay for marine use. Apply it as the manual says.

Follow tips for ensuring watertight seals. Be generous with sealant. But don’t overdo it. Too much can clog. Let it dry. Touch it gently to see if it’s set. Once it’s dry, it should keep water out.

Tip #9. Double-Check Everything. Remember the importance of double-checking the installation. Go over each step. Look at every part. Make sure all is done right. This is your last check. Fix any issues now. It’s easier to fix now than later.

Follow a checklist for ensuring everything is properly installed. Here’s a list… Is the toilet stable? Are the connections tight? Did you test the flush? Is the area around the toilet clean? Did you use the right sealant? Is there any water outside the pipes?

Check these things. They help you know the job is done well.

Tip #10. Maintenance Tips. Follow tips for maintaining and caring for your newly installed marine toilet. Care for your toilet to make it last. Clean it often. Use products that are safe for marine toilets. Check the parts. Replace things if they wear out. Follow the manual for care tips.

Remember the importance of regular maintenance for longevity. Good care means a long life for the toilet. It keeps it working right. It stops big problems. Regular checks can catch small issues before they get worse. Take care of your toilet, and it will take care of you.

Conclusion

Selecting the right marine toilet for your vessel requires careful consideration of intended usage, water consumption, pricing, installation complexity, and other key factors.

In this guide, we aimed to provide an overview of the eight best marine toilet manufacturers. Brands like Albin Pump Marine, Dometic, Raritan Engineering, and Jabsco are proven leaders in marine sanitation.

No matter your budget or needs, one of these toilet brands likely has an ideal model. Taking the time to research and evaluate across the criteria we covered will lead you to great long-term satisfaction with your marine head.

Happy and safe boating!