Saniflo Troubleshooting FAQs – UK Guide by Doctor Saniflo 2025
If your Saniflo is acting up—making noise, running constantly, or emitting bad smells—this page is for you. Below are the most searched Saniflo problems in the UK, with simple, expert-backed answers and direct links to the spare parts you’ll likely need.
1. Why does my Saniflo smell?
Bad smells from your Saniflo are usually caused by waste buildup, scale, or a faulty non-return valve allowing backflow. Over time, seals and membranes can also deteriorate, letting odours escape.
Solution: Descale the unit with proper Saniflo-safe cleaner (never bleach), and consider replacing the membrane and inlet rubber if they’re worn. We stock all these parts with UK delivery.
2. Why does my Saniflo toilet keep flushing?
This typically indicates a faulty microswitch or damaged membrane sending false signals to the motor or a leaky non return valve. A constant trickle of water from a leaking cistern can also trigger this.
Solution: Replace the microswitch, non return valve or membrane. Fix any leak in the toilet cistern that may be introducing excess water into the unit.
3. Why does my Saniflo keep running?
If your Saniflo runs continuously, it’s often due to:
- A worn or swollen membrane
- A stuck microswitch
- A leaking flush or slow dribble of water entering the unit
- A leaking non return valve
Solution: Replace the membrane, non return valve or microswitch. Ensure there’s no constant water flow entering from the toilet or connected sink. All parts are available on our site with fast UK dispatch.
4. Why does my Saniflo toilet keep making noise?
Noises such as humming, buzzing, or vibrating usually indicate:
- A faulty motor capacitor
- Foreign objects in jammed in the macerator (e.g. wipes, cotton buds, sanitary items)
- Loose or broken internal clips
Solution: Unplug the unit and inspect the macerator. Remove blockages and consider replacing the capacitor and internal fittings if damaged. We stock all spares made to fit UK Saniflo models.
5. Why does my Saniflo smell like sewage?
Sewage-like smells are a strong sign your non-return valve has failed, allowing waste water to return back into the unit. Worn or cracked rubber seals and a lack of regular descaling can worsen this.
Solution: Replace the non-return valve if its stuck open, descale thoroughly.
6. Why does my Saniflo toilet keep running?
This is typically caused by either:
- A leaking toilet cistern
- A malfunctioning pressure switch (microswitch and membrane)
- A leaking non return valve
Solution: Stop the water flow from the cistern and inspect the flush mechanism. If the Saniflo still runs without flushing, replace the microswitch and membrane.
7. Why does my Saniflo toilet smell?
This is often due to old waste residue in the unit causing smells to escape back through the pan or vent.
Solution: Regularly use Saniflo-safe descaler. Never use bleach—this damages rubber parts.
8. Why does my Saniflo pump keep running?
When your Saniflo pump doesn’t switch off, it’s likely:
- A stiff membrane stuck in the ‘on’ position
- A faulty microswitch not giving the motor the right signal to shut off
Solution: Replace the membrane or microswitch. These are quick DIY jobs and parts are available for all major UK models.
9. Why is my Saniflo noisy?
Loud or unusual noise usually points to either:
- Foreign objects hitting the blade
- Motor issues (Worn motor)
Solution: Open the unit, clean the blade area, and inspect for any wear. If the noise continues, you may need a new capacitor or full motor replacement.
10. Why is my Saniflo not working?
This could be due to:
- No power (check the fuse)
- Faulty microswitch, capacitor, or failed membrane
- Motor burnout (especially if it has overheated previously)
Solution: Begin with the affordable fixes: microswitch, membrane, or capacitor. If the motor is dead, we can help you find a replacement macerator suited for UK plumbing systems.
🛠 Need Saniflo Spare Parts?
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