C’MON… FLUSH!

Q: We just purchased a Silverton 34 cruiser (used), having moved up from a Chaparral bowrider. Cruising has been great. Our family loves it, especially during the height of the pandemic.

While we are experienced boaters and can handle most aspects of this boat, one thing has us perplexed: The head doesn’t flush “strong.” The pump is new and getting good voltage; the lines are clear and run straight—what can it be?

Love your column! Thanks in advance.

Gloria Morrison Chicago

A: Check the anti-siphon valve—the little horseshoe-shaped fitting. Make sure its vent is open and clear. It can be removed for service or replaced as a part. (Jabsco and Marelon are two big makes.) If that doesn’t help, flushing power for a head located at or below the waterline can be improved by adding a Vented Loop Solenoid Valve (Jabsco part No. 37068-2000). This wires into the flush switch and mount atop the vented loop in place of the air vent. The device costs approximately $125.