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Composting Toilets
Composting toilets are an increasingly popular
“green” choice for those concerned about
the environment. They are also convenient
for those wishing to have an indoor toilet
facility in a place where it is difficult
to install water lines and sewer systems,
such as remote cabins. Composting toilets
break down human waste and toilet paper through
a process involving oxygen, moisture, organic
material (such as peat moss), microbes (from
rich top soil), and heat. The result is a
compost that can be periodically deposed
of.
If you are thinking of buying
a composting
toilet, consider the following:
- In order to avoid unpleasant smells, look
for toilets that create a partial vacuum
that continuously pulls in air to evaporate
excess liquids. Electric models will operate
a fan that does this; non-electric types
use a vent chimney.
- It is important to provide the composting
mixture with plenty of oxygen. Models that
use a rotating drum, which is hand turned
by an exterior handle, speed up the composting
and help prevent odors caused by lack of
sufficient oxygen.
- It is necessary to add about one cup of peat
moss per person per day. Microbe rich material,
such as top soil, must also be periodically
added.
- If the toilet is to be installed in a seasonally
unheated space, look for units that can survive
freezing temperatures without cracking. Fiberglass
and marine grade stainless steel are good
choices.
To learn more about regular toilets, see
our toilet overview article. |
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