Overview of Composting Toilets
Composting toilets are an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for tiny homes. These toilets work by separating solid waste from liquid waste. A composting medium, such as peat moss or coconut coir, is added to solid waste to act as a composting agent. The composting chamber at the core of the system segregates solid waste from liquid waste using a urine diverting system.
Types of Tiny House Toilets
- Composting Toilets:
- Composting toilets are popular for tiny homes as they take up less space than conventional flush toilets.
- They separate liquids and solids through a system of chambers, pipes, and filters.
- Flush Toilets:
- Real toilets with flushing mechanisms can also be installed in tiny homes, but may require town water.
- Incinerator Toilets:
- Incinerating toilets in tiny houses work similarly to composting toilets, with waste disposed of periodically.
Emptying and Maintenance of Composting Toilets
Do You Have to Empty a Composting Toilet?
Composting toilets need regular maintenance and emptying, typically once a week. Liquid waste should be emptied more frequently and can be used as a plant fertilizer due to its high nitrogen content. The compost loses bulk over time, so the tray should be emptied every couple of months, depending on usage. Waste should be disposed of properly, potentially burying it or using compostable bags.
How to Empty a Composting Toilet:
- Remove the tray from the finishing drawer and empty it into a different waste container.
- Alternatively, dump the waste into a wheelbarrow for easier transportation.
- Maintenance and emptying are necessary once per week. Inspect the access hatch and add appropriate soak if needed. Level any accumulated waste under the pedestal by raking it forward.
Frequency of Emptying:
The commercial composting toilet may need emptying every three months. Urine evaporates, leaving a moist content suitable for the composting process. The urine chamber should be regularly checked, and the waste disposal frequency depends on the number of users.
Ventilation systems in composting toilets help accelerate composting and control odors. The frequency of emptying varies based on the size of the composting chamber and the number of users but generally is required every few months. It is advisable to wear gloves and wash hands after emptying the toilet. Most units have a removable tray or bin for easy maintenance.