CERTIFICATION
When shopping for a composting toilet check if the unit is certified by the NSF, (National Sanitation Foundation). Certification means that the unit operates odor free at maximum capacity and produces clean and save humus.
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CHECK LOCAL CODES FOR COMPOSTING TOILETS
In many jurisdictions, installing a composting toilet system allows the property owner to install a reduced-size leachfield, minimizing costs and disruption of landscapes. Also, in cases where the size of the septic bed allows only one toilet to be hooked up, installing two composting toilets may be allowed. |
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| Composting Toilets |
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Composting toilets convert solid organic human waste by naturally occurring bacteria and fungi that break down the excrement into compost which can be used for fertilizing. These organisms thrive by aeration, without the need for water or chemicals (with most models).
Some units have a drain at the bottom of the composter to divert access liquids to an old septic system. The aerobic composting process requires moisture levels to be controlled.
Although they can be used for residential use composting toilets are more often used for cottage use. Installing a septic bed and holding tank in cottage country may not be always possible or too costly ($20,000 and up).
A composting (or biological) toilet system contains and processes human waste, toilet paper and carbon additive. Unlike a septic system, a composting toilet system relies on unsaturated conditions where aerobic bacteria break down waste. This process is similar to a yard waste composter. If sized and maintained properly, a composting toilet breaks down waste 10 to 30% of its original volume. The resulting soil-like material called "humus," is a good fertilizer for trees, shrubbery and non-edible plants.
Composting toilets are ideal for cottages, cabins, garages or workshops. Smaller portable units have been designed for use in boats and RV's.
SELF CONTAINED UNITS or CENTRAL UNITS
Self contained composter units are installed in the bathroom. In a central unit more than one toilet can be connected to a larger composter which is usually located on a lower level such as the basement or crawlspace.
BENEFITS
Not all benefits listed may apply to all composting toilets. Check different manufacturers to find out what they offer.
- No plumbing and water supply required.
- Recycled valuable nutritions can be used as fertilizer around trees, shrubbery and non-edible plants..
- Environmental friendly and odor free if maintained properly.
- Little or no liquid discharge.
- A lot less expensive than installing a septic system.
DISADVANTAGES
- Inexperience or improper maintenance may lead to odor problems and create health hazards.
- Requires time, responsibility and commitment to regular maintenance.
- More expensive up front than flush toilets.
- Some models will not work properly in temperatures below 55° F or 13° C.
- There may be aesthetic issues because the excrement in some systems may be in sight.
- Too much liquid residual (leachate) in the composter can disrupt the process if it is not drained and properly managed. Some composting toilet systems must be used in conjunction with a graywater system. |
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