We’re all trying to do our best to help the environment, making sure to separate our recycling, using metal straws instead of plastic, all good things.
Some ways we can help the environment are by changing the items we use in our home, such as using a manual washing machine or a composting toilet.
In this article we will answer all the questions you might have about a composting toilet.
Do composting toilets smell bad?
The biggest question and concern people have before committing to using a composting toilet is, is it going to smell bad?
The quick answer is that, if you maintain the composting toilet properly, you won’t have to worry about the smell. A composting toilet is not the same as an outhouse so the waste won’t accumulate and smell in the same way.
Is using a composting toilet really inconvenient?
Using a composting toilet is virtually the same as using a regular toilet, as far as what your body needs to do.
With regards to cleaning, a composting toilet does require more maintenance than a regular toilet bowl.
With regular use, a composting toilet will need daily maintenance, Otherwise the waste can turn septic and produce terrible odors that spread very far.
What are the drawbacks of a composting toilet?
The biggest drawback to using a composting toilet is that they require more maintenance than a regular toilet. You will also have to get used to the idea of handling human waste pretty regularly, setting a composting toilet apart from a typical toilet.
Composting toilets can also run you up to $1500 to install and require approval from most area codes and regulations.
How do you maintain a composting toilet?
One of the ways to maintain a composting toilet is to make sure never to add any chemicals that can kill the beneficial bacteria in the waste. Using bleach or any like cleaner will kill odors, sure but it will also defeat the purpose of using a composting toilet.
Does toilet paper go in the composting toilet?
Toilet paper can be put into a composting toilet, as it will break down over time with the other waste. But size and thickness of the toilet paper will affect how quickly it breaks down, as will whether or not the toilet paper contains any dyes or artificial chemicals.
Most sources will recommend using RV rated toilet paper for your composting toilet for the best results.
Can you vomit in a composting toilet?
In general, a composting toilet should only take waste and toilet paper. It’s what we know for sure works in that system.
However, can a composting toilet handle vomit? Yes, as it is made up of organic materials. Where it can be an issue is if you are sick for a long time because vomit has a very high water content, your composting toilet may not be able to keep up.
If you get sick and need to throw up a lot in a composting toilet, just make sure to add more dry material to assist in the composting process.
How often do you have to empty a composting toilet?
Typical, commercial composting toilets only need to be emptied about every 3 months. It is best to check on your toilet once a month, and it will largely depend on how many people regularly use the toilet but once every month is an accepted average.
Where do you vent a composting toilet?
Venting a composting toilet can be installed through any wall that pipes usually go to. The vent is typically set up to release to the outside through a wall.
Which composting toilet is best?
There are many factors to consider when buying a composting toilet. Where will it go, how many people will be using it, and how often will you use it? These questions can help narrow down which composting toilet is best for your needs.
Knowing if it will be a part time toilet or a full time toilet can help you understand where to look for a composting toilet, as well as factors such as whether you want manual, semi-automatic, or automatic composting toilets.
What are the disadvantages of composting?
The biggest disadvantage of composting toilets for most people is the initial cost. As mentioned earlier, composting toilets can end up costing a pretty penny when you first buy it.
Composting toilets can also create foul smells if not cleaned properly and regularly which is unappetizing to users but very appetizing to flies and vermin.
Do you need plumbing for a composting toilet?
As compostable toilets are waterless they don’t need any plumbing set up. They do not need to be connected to any water supply at all.
In fact, their lack of plumbing is what is appealing to many compostable toilet users
How much does it cost to install a composting toilet?
The price of a composting toilet varies a lot. On average the set up costs about $1,400.
If you choose to build your own composting toilet, it’s possible to do so for about $50.
How much you choose to spend in constructing your compostable toilet is up to you and your budget but it doesn’t have to be a huge investment.
How long do composting toilets last?
Most compostable toilets brag a 15-20 year lifespan. But some composting toilets claim to only need 15-20 years before emptying but can last a lot longer after that.
It really depends on your particular compostable toilet. The more expensive toilet tend to be made of made of more long lasting materials but also matirials that might not compost as well themselves.
Are compostable toilets worth it?
Generally speaking, the installation cost of a compostable toilet is higher than a regular toilet which can push people away from setting up compostable toilets.
However, the longer lasting cost is not only better than effects on the environment but less costs of maintenance. Additionally you can use the waste to feed plants and crops to promote growth!