1. Introduction
The Saniflo SANIVITE drain pump is designed for pumping gray water from various fixtures in both commercial and residential applications. This unit is capable of discharging waste water up to 16 feet vertically and/or 150 feet horizontally. Its compact design allows it to fit conveniently inside a kitchen cabinet or vanity. The SANIVITE is engineered to handle demanding applications, including hot water and grease, making it suitable for sinks, showers, bathtubs, urinals, and washing machines (via indirect connection to a laundry sink).
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your Saniflo SANIVITE pump.
2. Safety Information
Always adhere to local plumbing and electrical codes during installation and operation. Failure to do so may result in property damage, injury, or voiding of the warranty.
- Ensure the power supply is disconnected before performing any installation, maintenance, or troubleshooting.
- The unit must be connected to a Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) circuit.
- All plumbing codes require connection to a two-way air vent system. Mechanical vents or air admittance valves are not permitted.
- Do not operate the pump dry.
- Keep hands and foreign objects away from moving parts.
3. Product Overview
The Saniflo SANIVITE pump is a robust gray water pumping system. It features a pressure chamber that activates the motor when water enters, driving an impeller to discharge the waste water. The motor is sealed for life in an oil-filled enclosure, ensuring minimal moving parts and reliable operation.
Figure 3.1: Front view of the Saniflo SANIVITE pump, showing its compact white housing and the 'SANIVITE' branding.
Figure 3.2: Diagram illustrating the versatility of the Saniflo SANIVITE, indicating its suitability for various gray water sources such as sinks, washing machines, showers, and toilets.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1 Pre-installation Checks
- Verify that the installation site has adequate space for the unit and necessary plumbing connections.
- Ensure access to a dedicated GFI electrical outlet.
- Confirm that all required plumbing fittings, pipes, and tools are available.
- For bathtubs or showers, a base of at least 2"x6" (minimum) or 2"x8" (recommended) on edge must be constructed to allow for P-trap installation and a 1/4" per foot gravity flow towards the pump unit.
4.2 Installation Steps
- Position the SANIVITE unit in its desired location, ensuring it is level and accessible for maintenance.
- Connect the waste water inlets: The unit has two 2-inch inlets on either side and an additional 1 1/2-inch inlet on the top. Connect fixtures such as sinks, showers, or bathtubs to these inlets.
- Connect the discharge pipe: The discharge elbow on top of the SANIVITE can be oriented to the left, right, or back. Connect a 1-inch or 1 1/2-inch discharge pipe to this elbow. Ensure the pre-assembled non-return valve is in place to prevent backflow.
- Connect to a two-way air vent system via the vent connection on the lid. This is a mandatory plumbing code requirement.
- Ensure all connections are secure and leak-free.
- Plug the unit into a GFI-protected electrical outlet.
Figure 4.1: Detailed plumbing diagram for the Saniflo SANIVITE, illustrating connections for 2-inch drains, 1 1/2-inch vent, and 1-1 1/2-inch discharge lines, including a bathtub connection.
Figure 4.2: Example installation of the Saniflo SANIVITE pump discreetly placed under a kitchen cabinet, demonstrating its compact size and integration with kitchen plumbing.
5. Operating Instructions
The Saniflo SANIVITE operates automatically. When waste water enters the unit, it activates a micro switch in the pressure chamber, which in turn starts the motor. The pump then discharges the effluent into the sanitary sewer system. Once the water level in the container drops, the micro switch deactivates the unit until more water enters.
5.1 Normal Operation
- Ensure the unit is plugged into a live GFI outlet.
- The pump will activate automatically when water flows into it from connected fixtures.
- A typical operating cycle is brief, usually 2-10 seconds, depending on the discharge pipe configuration.
- The unit is designed for intermittent use as needed by the connected fixtures.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your SANIVITE pump. Always disconnect power before any maintenance.
6.1 Routine Maintenance
- Periodically check all plumbing connections for leaks.
- Inspect the discharge pipe for any obstructions or blockages.
- Ensure the vent connection is clear and unobstructed.
- Listen for unusual noises during operation, which may indicate a problem.
6.2 Cleaning
While the SANIVITE is designed to handle hot water and grease, occasional cleaning can help prevent buildup. For general cleaning, a non-corrosive descaling solution specifically designed for pumps can be used. Follow the descaling product's instructions carefully. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
7. Troubleshooting
Before attempting any repairs, ensure the power supply to the unit is disconnected. If you are unable to resolve an issue, contact a qualified technician or Saniflo customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pump does not start | No power; GFI tripped; Micro switch issue; Motor fault | Check power supply and GFI; Reset GFI; Inspect wiring; Contact support if motor or switch is faulty. |
| Pump runs continuously | Non-return valve faulty; Obstruction in pump; Micro switch issue | Check non-return valve for debris; Clear any obstructions; Contact support for switch replacement. |
| Pump is noisy | Foreign object in pump; Motor bearing wear; Unit not stable | Disconnect power and inspect for foreign objects; Ensure unit is stable; Contact support for motor issues. |
| Water leaks from unit | Loose connections; Damaged seals/gaskets; Cracked housing | Tighten connections; Inspect and replace seals/gaskets; Contact support for housing damage. |
| Pump cycles frequently | Minor leak in system; Non-return valve not sealing properly | Check all fixtures for drips; Inspect non-return valve. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | SANIFLO |
| Model Number | 008 |
| Material | Cast Iron, Stainless Steel |
| Power Source | Electric |
| Item Weight | 14.61 Pounds |
| Maximum Flow Rate | 10 Gallons Per Minute |
| Maximum Lifting Height | 16 Feet |
| Horizontal Discharge | Up to 150 Feet (with gravity fall) |
| Inlets | Two 2-inch side inlets, One 1 1/2-inch top inlet |
| Discharge Pipe Diameter | 1 inch or 1 1/2 inch |
| Certifications | UL 778 (US), CSA C22.2 (CA) |
| UPC | 680175965498 |
8.1 Dimensions
Figure 8.1: Dimensional drawing of the Saniflo SANIVITE pump, indicating key measurements for installation planning.
8.2 Flow Rate Performance
Figure 8.2: Performance curve illustrating the relationship between vertical discharge distance and flow rate for the Saniflo SANIVITE pump.
9. Warranty and Support
The Saniflo SANIVITE pump is manufactured to high standards and comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Saniflo website.
9.1 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting guidance, or warranty claims, please contact Saniflo customer support. Ensure you have your product model number (008) and purchase details available when contacting support.
- Visit the official SANIFLO Store on Amazon for more product information.