However, many users of manufactured composting toilets by Sun-Mar, Envirolet, BioLet and other composting toilet models have had less than ideal experiences with their composting toilets.  As with the problems with homemade composting toilets that I have discussed in my personal account of using a humanure homemade composting toilet, the problems with manufactured composting toilets are frequently due more to user error than due to a problem with the toilet composting system itself.  Still, these problems are common enough to suggest that there needs to be made more effort on the part of manufacturers to properly educate consumers about common problems with these systems and how to avoid them.

Here are some of the common problems users report with different manufactured composting models – as well as some ways these problems may be remedied or avoided altogether.

1. Problems with liquid build up in the composting toilet.

This is by far the most common complaint I have common across in my research of manufactured composting toilets complaints (it also was a problem I experienced with homemade composting toilet buckets, but due to their small size and frequency of being emptied not as significant of a problem, I think).  This fluid is generally a result of people urinating in the toilet.  The composting process will simply not work properly in most composting toilet systems if there is too much fluid in the system.

Some users, and even some manufacturers, recommend not using composting toilets to urinate in, but this does not seem like an adequate solution to me (and many other users).  Particularly for females, it is a hassle to have to urinate in a separate container or outdoors (not to mention that this may be illegal in some areas).  Excess liquid can be controlled, however, by adding adequate amounts of dry material to balance the composting matter and using electric fans and heaters to help evaporate and dispel excess moisture (so for those purchasing non-electric models, extra care will have to be taken to keep the system in order).  In addition, there are now models being manufactured that divert urine away from the “dry” composting area (for fecal matter).  For an example of this system, check out the Nature’s Head composting toilets.

2. Problems with Odor.

A well functioning composting toilet (whether homemade or manufactured) should be odorless.  Odor problems are a sign that there is a serious problem with the system.  Frequently this is due to the liquid issues discussed above.

Composting toilets rely on aerobic decomposition, but with excess liquid, the process will instead convert to anaerobic decomposition (for a discussion of these two processes, read “How Toilet Composting Works“).  Both of these decomposition processes are found in nature, but anaerobic decomposition is the the smelly one, and if your toilet has gotten out of balance, the smell can be quite bad indeed.

To remedy this problem, you need to get your compost back in balance by adding dry matter to it.  Unfortunately, if it is really bad, you may have to remove some of the liquid matter first – a quite unpleasant task – so it is best to try to keep this problem from developing in the first place!

3. Problems with removing the finished compost from the toilet.

There are two significant problems users may encounter when it is time to remove the compost.  First, we return again to the issue of excess liquid – if the mixture is too wet, it will be difficult and smelly removal process (and you may well decide to remove the toilet along with the compost!).

A second issue some users report is a result of overloading the system.  For most composting toilets, you need to make sure the finished compost is removed promptly.  You may also be able to make the process of removal easier by using very lightweight organic brown matter for your dry matter in the composting toilet.  Peat moss may be an ideal medium for most composting toilets (although there may be concerns about using it due to environmental issues).

Switching to any toilet composting system – be it homemade or manufactured – requires a significant change in practice and much education.  Anticipating what are very common problems by users, and providing full disclosure of these issues are and how to resolve them, would be a great benefit many users of these toilet composting systems.  Furthermore, it would also help promote composting toilet usage instead of leaving some composting toilet users frustrated, angry and often abandoning and discouraging others from using a valuable green technology.

For more information about composting toilets and reviews of different composting toilet systems, please return to the Toilet Composting Home Page.

Below you will find links to articles from this website answering some of the most common questions I have encountered regarding composting toilets.  (If you are unable to find an answer to your question, or have questions or comments about the answers I have posted, feel free to send me an email using the contact information provided above):

1. Five Top Questions about Composting Toilets.  Fast answers to some of the most common questions people have about compost toilets.
2. What are Composting Toilets? A discussion of the basics of a composting toilet system and how it works.
3. What is Humanure and What Can I do With It? Answers questions about how to use and the safety of the compost produced by composting toilet systems.
4. What Can You Put in a Compost Toilet? Besides the obvious (human waste, toilet paper), there are many other ways most composting toilet systems can be used to process organic household waste.  This article discusses the many different ways you can use a compost toilet in your home.
5. How Much Do Composting Toilet Cost? If you are considering purchasing a composting toilet, you may initially be surprised by the price tag.  But composting toilets are actually an excellent investment for your home, and this article explains why.
6. Where Can Composting Toilets be Used? You may be surprised at all the locations suitable for composting toilets.
7. What is Wrong with a Flush Toilet? Read this article to find out.
8. Are Composting Toilets Safe? This article answers some of the concerns you may have about the safety of composting toilets and humanure.
   
9. What are the Environmental Benefits of Composting Toilets? An excellent discussion of why composting toilets are a good choice for the environment.
10. Where can I learn more about composting toilets? For more articles about the fundamentals of composting toilets and how they work,  check out the “Composting Toilet Basics” section of this website.  To learn about what kind of composting toilet system is right for you, you should check out “Composting Toilet Systems.”  If you are interested in reading reviews about different manufacturers of composting toilets, check out the “Composting Toilet Reviews” category of this website.  There are also pages devoted to documenting many Online Resources for composting toilets, and suggestions for Books on Composting Toilets that you can read.  You can also return to the Toilet Composting Homepage to read the most recent posts about composting toilets.

Here are some of the differences between the models and recommendations about their use:

Self-Contained Composting Toilets

If you are looking for a composting toilet that is easy to install and affordable, a self-contained composting toilet should be considered.  These models are best suited for one or two individuals, or for occasional use by more individuals in a vacation home.

Most of the major composting toilet manufacturers (Envirolet, BioLet, Sun-Mar) make self-contained composting toilet models.  Other than installing a vent, many of the models are almost ready to go out of the box and are easily installed in your home.  You should be aware, however, that some of these models can be quite large, given that they are complete all-in-one composting units.  Some may find their bulky size a bit disturbing (many models require a foot stool to climb on top of, for example), and they also may be a bit more difficult to empty.

One thing you want to be certain of when using a self-contained composting toilet is not to overload the system, otherwise you may end up with a wet and smelly mess to deal with.  Be sure the model is well suited for the number of users and well maintained as well.  Since this model will be completely situated in your bathroom, you will want to assure there are no leaks or odors.

Remote (or Split) Composting Toilets

If you have a family that is larger than two individuals looking to use a composting toilet on a daily basis, you should probably consider a remote composting toilet unit.  These are sometimes also called a “split” composting toilet since the toilet and the composting chamber are literally split into separate components, with the composting bin generally located in a separate location beneath the composting toilet (usually a basement).

Some advantages of the remote composting toilet systems is that they look more like flush toilets.  Some models, such as those produced by envirolet, come in interesting colors as well, and vacuum and micro-flush remote composting toilet units are available as well.  On the whole, remote composting toilet systems are better suited for daily family usage.

On the downside, remote composting toilets tend to be more expensive than self-contained models, and they will incur additional installation costs as well.  You will also need a basement or similar location to place the remote composting bin, and not all homes are able to accommodate these systems.

For more information on composting toilets, including composting toilet reviews, and composting toilets buyer’s guides, return to the Toilet Composting home page.

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Self-contained composting toilets are ideal for individuals and occasional use in a cottage or vacation home (for more about these models, read “Self Contained Composting Toilets“), but if you have more than two individuals interested in using a composting toilet on a daily basis, you should consider installing a remote composting toilet system.

There are many advantages to remote composting toilet systems.   The primary advantage is their ability to service multiple users.  Some models are built to be able to service up to ten individuals on a daily basis (for an example, check out the Envirolet Waterless Remote Composting Toilet).

Another advantage is that aesthetically these toilets look very similar to regular flush toilets.  Some composting toilet users may find the self-contained models to be too large and bulky.  With remote composting toilets, only the toilet itself will be in your bathroom.  The composting chamber will be located either in a basement or outside your home.

Remote composting toilet systems also tend to come with many additional features not found in the self-contained models.  For example, Envirolet creates remote composting toilet models in many brilliant colors (including bright pink).  There are also micro-flush and vacuum-flush composting toilets that closely mimic regular flush toilets in term of use (but without the enormous waste of water).

There are some disadvantages to remote systems, however.  The primary problem for many is finding an appropriate location for composting chamber.  This can be a particular challenge if you home does not have a basement and experiences freezing temperatures outdoors.

Another disadvantage may be the cost.  Remote composting toilets, because of their larger size and additional parts, can cost significantly more than a self-contained composting toilet (for more information, read “How Much Do Composting Toilets Cost?“).  And additional costs will be incurred during the actual installation of these units, which usually requires professional assistance.

However, for those seeking a composting toilet that can adequately serve multiple users on a daily basis, remote composting toilets provide the best answer.  Not purchasing a composting toilet model large enough to deal with the amount of waste being generated can result in enormous problems for owners, and should be avoided at all costs.  Even though there is additional costs and efforts associated with a remote composting system, you will find it is well worth the expense and effort.

For more information about composting toilet systems, including articles about “Composting Toilet Basics” and “Composting Toilet Reviews,” please return to the Toilet Composting Homepage.

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There are several advantages to choosing a self-contained composting toilet.  First, they are much easier to install than a remote composting toilet system.  In fact, other than installing a vent for the toilet, you will need to do little when you install the unit.  You will not need to hook the toilet up to a basement composting chamber with a self-contained composting toilet. With a self-contained composting toilet, you are getting an “all in one” unit.  The toilet and the composting bin are combined in the unit, with the composting process going on right under the seat.

Because there are few installation costs involved, and because the units are more compact and fewer parts than remote systems, self-contained composting toilets also tend to be a much cheaper option when compared to remote composting toilet systems.  (For more on the price of composting toilets, read “How Much Do Composting Toilets Cost?“)

However, this is also a disadvantage for some as well: because of their small size, self-contained composting units only have a limited capacity. If there are more than two individuals using the toilet year round, a self-contained composting toilet system is not for you.  In fact, even two individuals may overburden many models, and you need to choose your model carefully if for more than one individual.  Self contained composting toilets are probably most ideal for occasional usage in cottages or seasonal and vacation homes, or for year around usage by a single individual.

Most composting toilet manufacturers produce self-contained composting toilets (some also produce remote systems as well).  You will find that manufacturers like Sun-Mar, BioLet, and Envirolet all have several self-contained composting toilet models to choose from, each with its own unique features.  You should certainly compare the models and read different composting toilet reviews before making your final selection.

If you have more than two people who will be using a composting toilet, or if you are just interested in learning more about remote composting toilet systems, take a look at the article “Remote (Central, or Split) Composting Toilet Systems.” These systems are generally ideal for year-round usage by families or large groups.

For more articles about composting toilets, including “Composting Toilet Basics” please return to the Toilet Composting Homepage.

Here is a list of several different composting toilet manufacturers, and links to the reviews written about them at this website.

If you would like to suggest another company for review, please use the contact information listed in the “About Me” page listed above:

1. BioLet Composting Toilets
2. Clivus Multrum Composting Toilets
3. EcoTech Carousel Composting Toilets
4. Envirolet Composting Toilets
5. Homemade Composting Toilets
6. Nature’s Head Composting Toilets
7. Phoenix Composting Toilets
8. Sun-Mar Composting Toilets
   

For additional  information about composting toilets, including answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about Composting Toilets, and articles about the basics of Composting Toilets, please return to the Toilet Composting Homepage.

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1. Getting a Compost Toilet Approved. The most difficult aspect of placing a composting toilet in your home is likely going to be gaining approval and permit by local city officials.  This articles discusses some of the challenges and recent changes in the local approval permitting process for compost toilets.
   
2. Ecological Sanitation and Composting Toilets.  This article discusses the emerging waste paradigm of ecological sanitation.  Sometimes referred to as EcoSan or Eco-San, one of the primary tenants of this paradigm is that human and household “waste” is actually a valuable resource instead of a waste product to be thrown away
3. Common problems with Manufactured Composting Toilets.  Although there are many benefits to using a manufactured composting toilet model in your home, there are also some common problems, which this article discusses.
4. Toilet Composting Basics.  Just a straightforward discussion of the basics of composting toilets, including what they are, how they work and links to resources for more information.
5. Five Reasons You Should Use a Composting Toilet.  If you need more convincing that switching to a composting toilet is a good idea, take a look at this article.
   
6. History of Composting Toilets.  Discusses the somewhat murky history of composting toilets.
7. Incinerating, Desiccating and Composting Toilet Comparisons.  Incinerating and desiccating toilets are two other alternative to flush toilet systems, and this article compares the three different systems.
8. Guide to Purchasing a Compost Toilet.  Here are some of the most important questions you will need answered and issues to consider when purchasing a composting toilet for your home, RV, or boat.
   
9. Leave No Trace: Portable Composting Toilets for Camping.  Camping trips pose special challenges when it comes to properly disposing of and composting waste.  This article discusses some of the most recent products developed to assist with this process.
10. Build a Compost Toilet: Information and Plans.  Discussion and plans for building a homemade compost toilet.
11. How Composting Toilets Work.  Discusses the difference between aerobic and anaerobic decomposition and the mechanics of how the composting process works in composting toilets.
    
12. Advantages and Disadvantages of Composting Toilets.  Although composting toilets are a great green technology, they may not be for everybody.  Here are some of the benefits and challenges of switching to a toilet composting system.

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Most composting toilet manufacturers state this is a problem with how these models are being operated.  Users must add the proper amount of dry carbon materials when they are using them (sawdust, peat moss and the like) and electric fans and heating elements should also help eliminate excess liquid as well.  Still, many find that finding the proper balance is a challenge and often are discouraged or angry when their composting toilets become out of balance.

The Nature’s Head composting toilet may be a solution for those who are frustrated with dealing with excess liquid in their toilets.  This composting toilet has a unique internal separation device the diverts urine into a separate tank (to be emptied frequently by the user), thus keeping the other portion of the composting toilet essentially dry (in fact, you made need to add moisture to this toilet in order to ensure complete and proper composting).

The Nature’s Head composting toilet models also are a bit easier on the pocket book than many other composting toilet systems.  The basic Nature’s Head Composting Toilet starts at $850, nearly half the price of a Sun-Mar mobile composting toilet which is designed for similar purposes (marine and recreational vehicle use.  The unique design features of the Sun-Mar Mobile are discussed in the article “Composting Toilets for Boats“).

However, Nature’s Head composting toilets are not for everyone.  These models were specifically designed for mobile applications (campers, boats, trailers and the like) and have a limited user capacity.  They are built for small spaces, but may seem a bit small for residential purposes.  If more than a couple of people will be using your composting toilet, you will probably be better off considering a remote composting toilet system rather than a small, self-contained model such as that being produced by Nature’s Head.

Nature’s head is a fairly new company on the composting toilet front and do not have a huge track record to back them up (“head” is the term boaters use to refer to toilets, hence the name “Nature’s Head”).  The company is headquartered in Mobile, Alabama and started production and shipping of their composting toilets in June, 2007.  The few reviews that I have found and read, however, have been quite positive.

If you are interested in reading more about portable composting toilets for marine, camping and other outdoor applications, as well as additional articles covering the basics of toilet composting and other manufacturer reviews, please return to the Toilet Composting website.

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And besides these practical advantages, composting toilets have additional environmental advantages to consider as well.  A compost toilet will help save on water usage, eliminate the need for chemicals to treat waste, and produce a valuable end product that can be used in place of chemical fertilizers around trees, flowers and other plants.

However, composting toilets also present certain challenges for boaters as well.  They must be constructed so as to be able to handle a considerable amount of turbulence.  There is a problem regarding the space requirements of many self-contained composting toilets, and the power requirements as well: most composting toilet models require that a vessel have enough power so that they can run a 12-volt, 4 watt fan continuously, and a heating unit occasionally (to control moisture and prevent odors).

Fortunately in recent years several manufacturers have stepped up to the challenge and started to produce composting toilets meant specifically for marine use.  The Sun Mar Mobile is one such example.  With this model, the Sun Mar corporation created a special mechanism to ensure the composting drum is always held in upright position during “violent motion.”  They also developed a special gasket system around the finishing drawer to ensure there are no leaks from it as well during rough weather.   Space modifications features were put in place to that more vessels can accommodate them (such as fold-up foot rests) and special filters were installed for the vent stack so there are no odors at deck level.  The model is not cheap, however, and starts around $1600, but it is an excellent example of a composting toilet built specifically for marine uses.

The space requirements will still be a challenge for smaller craft, however.  If you are considering purchasing a composting toilet you need to ensure that it will be able accommodate the number of people using it, otherwise you will end up with an overflowing toilet with unfinished compost inside.  The Sun Mar Mobile is suitable for one person, possibly two, but would not be able to accommodate any more people except for occasional outings.  You will also need to provide some space to store the dry carbon matter that is used instead of water for these models (sawdust and peat moss are probably the most commonly used materials).  And you need to ensure that there is adequate space to be able to remove and empty the finishing drawer once the compost is ready.

If you are interested in learning more about the composting process, you should read the article “Toilet Composting Basics.”  If you would like to learn more about what you can do with the finished compost from a composting toilet, read “What is Humanure and What Can I Do with It?“  Otherwise, return to the Toilet Composting Homepage, where you will find many additional articles and resources regarding composting toilets.

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Because the composting toilets manufactured for marine use are self-contained models, you will need enough space to accommodate both the toilet itself as well as room to pull out the composting drawer.  There will be no additional plumbing required for most models.  However, in order to lessen potential for odor and to help maintain the composting system in order, most system use a fan and your boat will need to have adequate power to be able to continuously run the fan (usually 4 watts, 12 volts).

In terms of cost, marine composting toilets can compare quite favorably against the cost of other marine toilet systems, particularly those that require a holding tank for waste. Most marine composting models run around $1200 or more. Although it may be tempting to go with a slightly cheaper self-contained composting toilet not built specifically for marine uses, you may regret this decision due to the specific challenges boats present in terms of properly containing the waste during bad weather.

For example, the Sun Mar Mobile composting toilet, probably one of the most sophisticated marine composting toilets currently on the market, currently costs around $1600.  It can be used by one to two people full time use, and possibly accommodate even more for weekend outings.  Sun Mar has put a lot of effort into designing a toilet that will deal well with “violent motion.”  For their mobile unit, they made sure that the finishing drawer was gasketed in a manner so that absolutely no liquid could escape, and they also built a special drum locker that could ensure that the composting drum is continually held in an upright position.  Additional special modifications for marine units include such features as fold-up foot rests and activated carbon and zeolite filters to ensure that there is no odors on the deck where the vent stack protrudes.

From an environmental standpoint, marine composting toilets are beneficial for multiple reasons, but not the least because they do not require any chemical additives, require no water to maintain, and create an end product (humus) that is a valuable soil additive that actually benefits the environment (instead of a waste product that needs to be treated and disposed of properly).  The compost that is produced by marine composting toilets is absolutely sanitary and can used to fertilize a wide variety of plants and trees (for more, read “What are the Environmental Benefits of Composting Toilets?” and “What is Humanure and What Can I do with It?“)

Self-contained composting toilets are generally Coast Guard Certified Type III MSD.   For more information about composting toilets, you can also read “Toilet Composting Basics” or return to the Toilet Composting Information Home Page, where you will find dozens of informative articles about composting toilets.

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Local health officials in many regions may be extremely biased against any nontraditional waste disposal method.  Many cities don’t even allow rainwater catchment, so trying to convince them that humanure is a great idea is quite a challenge!  For this reason, most composting toilet owners in the United States do not even bother seeking permits, instead using them clandestinely in their homes.  Just like the “solar guerillas” who often illegally set up solar systems in their homes due to oppressive regulations, there appears to be a large composting toilet guerilla underground movement as well.

But there is encouraging changes happening as the number of users of composting toilets continues to grow.  In a recent New York Times article (dated July 6, 2009), reporter Kate Galbraith noted that many cities are now at least considering a policy that encourages (or accepts) composting toilets in residential homes.  She writes that, “Last month the city of Austin, Tex., approved its first composting toilet. Columbus, Ohio is adding some composting toilets to its parks [and] Officials in Dutchess County, N.Y., are studying the concept [of approving composting toilets].”

Galbraith also interviewed Jim Weaver of BioLet composting toilets, who noted that manufactured composting toilets is definitely a growth industry, with BioLet currently selling over 1,000 a units a year (and BioLet is a fairly small company compared to some other composting toilet manufacturers, including Sun-Mar and Envirolet).

There are also additional attempts to create national standardization and regulation criteria.   The National Sanitation International Foundation is now setting manufacturing standards and certifying composting toilets in the United States and abroad.

Still, the approval process is still not easy for most regions in the United States.  This is an area where more activism seems to be needed, and although the permiting process can be grueling (and often unsuccesful), silently installing a composting toilet does little to help on this front (although it does undoubtedly to a lot of good for the environment).   Activism and education seem to be the key to encouraging people to switch from the wasteful flush toilet method to the more environmentally sustainable practice of toilet composting.

For more information about composting toilet methods, composting toilet reviews, and information on how to build a homemade compost toilet, please return to the Toilet Composting Home Page.

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Ecological sanitation systems seek to to create “closed-loop” sanitation systems by working to make the nutrients from the output of human feces and urine available to input into agricultural uses (which then, by providing food for humans becomes “output” again).   Ecological sanitation methods also promote soil fertility without using chemical fertilizers and work to assure food security for future generations.

According to biointensive agricultural expert John Jeavons, “Each person’s urine and manure contain approximately enough nutrients to produce enough food to feed that person,” and ecological sanitation methods aim to capitalize on this value of human “waste.”  Ecological sanitation methods also aim to reduce the amount of soil, surface and groundwater contamination due to septic or sewage based waste disposal systems.

Composting toilets play an important role in many ecological sanitation based systems, as they are able to turn human and household organic waste into humus which can then be recycled into the environment in very beneficial ways.  The composting toilets used in ecological santiation systems can be either high-tech and low-tech, and both homemade composting toilets and manufactured ones have a role to play in this system.

The homemade composting toilet system developed by Joseph Jenkins is one example of a low-tech (and nearly free) composting toilet that is integrated into an ecological sanitation paradigm.   Joseph Jenkins has also long been an advocate for using the compost produced by these toilets (which he calls “humanure”) for agricultural purposes.  (For more information about humanure, read Jenkin’s book (available online) “The Humanure Handbook.”  You can also read a short article from this website entitled “What is Humanure and What Can I Do with It?“)

As long as the waste disposal system is a closed-loop system and beneficial to the environment, there are many different ways in which ecological sanitation systems can be organized.  Other possible elements that ecological sanitation systems can include are vermicomposting (worm composting), solar toilets, and in some cases, leach fields and planter cells (such as with an earthship design).

For more information, you can read Christine Werner’s excellent article on the topic, “Closing the Loop through Ecological Sanitation” (PDF file).  There are several EcoSan centers globally, including the EcoSan Center at the  Norwegian University fo Life Science UMB and EcoWaters in the USA.

For more information on toilet composting systems and for answers about frequently asked questions about composting toilets, please return to the Toilet Composting Home Page.

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One of the authors, David Del Porto, has sold and and serviced thousands of composting toilets since 1972.  He has also help write industry performance and regulation standards, and designed composting toilets and graywater systems for Greenpeace facilities and for different developing countries.  He is one of the leading experts in his field and really knows the topic well.

In The Composting System B0ok you will find descriptions of over forty different composting toilet systems, including both manufactured and site-built composting toilets.  They discuss everything from what are the best toilet stools to go with your self-contained composting toilet to how to best install a micro-flush composting toilet in your home.  The book has extensive tips on how to choose, plan, and install your entire composting toilet system, including some information that the toilet manufacturers themselves will never tell you about how to maintain and install their composting toilets.  You will also find out how you can help reduce pollution and help protect yourself and your community against rising water and sewage costs in the future by choosing a composting toilet for your home.

The book also explains the manner in which new composting technology has improved so that composting toilets are now compatible with the most upscale bathrooms, while also providing extensive technical information about these systems (although it is about eight years old at this point and even more developments have been made in recent years).  In addition, The Composting Toilet System Book provides important information about United States permitting requirements for different states, as well as how these composting toilet systems can be best integrated with graywater systems.  If you are about to embark on the process of trying to get a permit for your composting toilet, you should definitely take a look at the information provided in this book.

You should be aware that the Composting Toilet System Book is not cheap, running around fifty dollars a copy.  But it is easily the best printed resource available for people installing and maintaining composting toilets in their homes, and is well worth the price.   The Composting Toilet System Book is available from many online retailers, and you can purchase it from Amazon.com here: The Composting Systems Book.

For more information about composting toilet systems, including additional reviews of composting toilet books, please return to Toilet Composting.

Q) What are Composting Toilets?

A) Like a compost pile or a compost bin, composting toilets use rapid aerobic decomposition to turn organic waste matter into a rich, compost that can be used as a soil amendment.  Most compost toilets use little or no water.  Instead, you “flush” using a dry medium like sawdust or peat moss, which helps keep the composting waste in balance.

There are two different types of composting toilet systems that are most-commonly used in houses: all-in-one  “self-contained” composting toilets, which are convenient for small spaces, and “remote” composting toilet systems, in which a large composting reactor is located away from the toilet (often in the basement of a house).  For more information, read the article “Types of Composting Toilet Systems.”

Q: Do composting toilets smell?

A:  If they are well-maintained, they should not smell at all.  Some models even have less arguably less odors than conventional toilets (vacuum-flush composting toilets).  If there is an odor, that means there is something very wrong with how the system is being maintained.  Modern day manufactured composting toilets bear absolutely no resemblance to outdoor outhouses.

Q: Why would anyone want to purchase one?

A:  There are many reasons people are interested in buying composting toilets.  For some, it may be because they are located in an area where septic and sewage systems are difficult or costly to build and maintain.  For many others, they choose composting toilets for environmental reasons (for more information, read “What are the Environmental Benefits of Composting Toilets “).

Q: Are Composting Toilets Expensive?

A: When you initially compare them in price to a regular flush toilet, composting toilets may seem a little costly.  But when you compare what the costs are over time, you will find that composting toilets are actually the better choice financially.  With a composting toilet you will save on water, sewage or septic fees, and also produce a valuable soil additive.  For more details, check out the article “How Much do Composting Toilets Cost?”

Q:  What is the end product of the toilet composting process like, and what do I do with it?

A:  After the composting process is finished, you will have a dry, fluffy odorless material that looks a little bit like soil.  It is safe to touch, and is a great fertilizing source for plants, shrubs and trees.  For more information about how to use the compost from composting toilets, read “What is Humanure and What Can I do with It?“  If you are concerned about the safety of composting toilets, you may also want to read “Are Composting Toilets Safe?”

Although these are some of the most common questions asked, if you have more questions answered, or want to read more articles and reviews of popular composting toilets models (including a Buyers Guide to Composting Toilets), please return to the Toilet Composting Homepage.

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]]> http://toilet-composting.com/top-five-questions-about-composting-toilets/feed/ 0 http://toilet-composting.com/homemade-and-manufactured-compost-toilets-compared/ http://toilet-composting.com/homemade-and-manufactured-compost-toilets-compared/#comments Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:09:25 +0000 M Day http://toilet-composting.com/?p=176 Continue reading]]> If you are looking for a compost toilet for your home, you can choose between two main options: either build a compost toilet on your own, or purchase a manufactured one.  There are important similarities and differences between these two different types of composting toilets, and advantages and disadvantages for each model.

Similarities between Homemade and Manufactured Compost Toilets

Each type of composting system will be used in basically the same manner.  After using the toilet, you will add some brown organic matter (for example, peat moss or sawdust) to keep the compost balanced between green and brown matter.  Also, both homemade and manufactured composting toilets will produce the same end product: a rich compost that can be used to amend soil around trees, bushes, flowers and non-edible plants.

Differences between Homemade and Manufactured Compost Toilets

One of the major differences is how the composting process will work with each of these systems.  With a manufactured system, the composting will generally take place within a centralized composting chamber located beneath the toilet, in a series of rotating buckets, or with self-contained models, right under the seat.

Some models will have a built in turning system to speed up the process, others will provide ample space so that the compost will move slowly downwards over time and will be fully composted by the time it reaches the bottom of the chamber.  With manufactured toilets, users will only come in contact with the toilet contents once they are fully compost and ready to be used.

Homemade compost toilets, on the other hand, generally rely on a small container under the compost toilet being emptied into an outdoors compost bin.  With a homemade compost toilet, users will have to empty uncomposted materials into the compost bin where the composting process will then take place.

Advantages of a Manufactured Compost Toilet

The ease of use is one of the main advantages of a manufactured composting toilet.  Users will not have to haul waste to an outdoor composting toilet, nor will they have to worry about turning the composting waste, animals entering the compost bins and so forth.  Although users do need to ensure that there is a right balance of brown and green composting materials in the chamber (by making sure they add brown matter when using the toilet), most manufactured compost toilets require little effort from their owners.

Other advantages of manufactured compost toilets are their aesthetics and comfort.   Many models look remarkably similar to flush toilets (there are even micro flush composting toilets that are nearly identical in appearance to flush toilets).  Most models are manufactured for maximum comfort and ease of use.

Finally, many manufactured compost toilets have been certified by different health and sanitation agencies, and this can assist with getting local permits approving these systems.

Advantages of Homemade Compost Toilets

The primary advantage of a homemade compost toilet is the price: you can build your own composting toilet for under $50 in materials.  For those wanting a quick and cheap set up, you can not beat a homemade compost toilet.

Many would argue that another huge advantage of building your own compost toilet is the sense of accomplishment you will have and the intimate knowledge you will develop regarding the composting process.

For more information, comparisons and reviews of toilet composting systems, return to the Toilet Composting Homepage.

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