Which dry toilet is better to use for a summer residence?
Toilets, based on the method of biological processing of human waste, are divided into three types:
- peat (compost);
- liquid (chemical);
- electric (don’t be surprised, there are some, but they have nothing in common with the electric chair).
Peat dry toilets
In these toilets, feces are separated into solid and liquid phases using a peat mixture enriched with special bacteria (the use of regular peat is ineffective due to the insufficient number of microorganisms in it). The solid phase is poured into a compost pit, from where after 2-3 years it can be removed and used as organic fertilizer. The liquid phase is discharged into the drainage network.
Since the decomposition process is accompanied by the release of gas, the lower sealed tank is made with two outlets: one for drainage, the other for connection to the exhaust riser.
Construction of a peat dry closet.
Advantages of peat dry toilets
- simplicity of design (although there are models with an exhaust fan);
- environmental friendliness (no chemicals);
- maintaining and cleaning the compost bin is not difficult;
- low price of the device itself and composting materials (with the exception of a small number of imported products).
Disadvantages of peat dry toilets
- permanent installation due to the presence of a ventilation pipe;
- For “high-performance” modifications, the filled container is quite heavy and is usually equipped with wheels, so you need to think about the route for transporting it to the disposal site.
- large sizes compared to other types of dry closets.
When is it appropriate to use. A peat dry closet is an ideal option for owners of large plots who want to obtain a high level of organic waste processing at low operating costs with the possibility of their further use as fertilizer. The most suitable place for such a toilet is a separate extension or a ready-made factory cabin, which will require additional capital investment.
Liquid dry toilets
Liquid dry closets are devices in which waste is disposed of using special liquids. Water (usually with added flavoring) is poured into the upper tank, and concentrate is poured into the lower container. When flushed, the water mixes with the concentrate and forms a chemical composition that affects the feces.
Construction of a liquid dry closet.
There are two types of liquid dry toilets:
1. Formaldehyde
They block the process of biological decomposition by destroying bacteria that cause stench. Formaldehyde-based composition is very effective in terms of odor removal, but is very toxic. Therefore, under no circumstances should the processed product be buried in the soil, not only on the site, but also outside it. The only method of disposal is to drain it into the central sewer system or hand it over to a service organization (if such a service is available). Because of this problem, formaldehyde-based dry closets are rarely used in suburban settings.
2. Ammonium
They process the “primary product” according to the principle of anaerobic septic tanks, i.e. based on microbiological decomposition in combination with oxygen deficiency. The ammonium-based composition is not as effective as the formaldehyde-based one, but it is much less harmful and can be used to add to a compost pit.
So, an ammonium toilet, like a peat toilet, can be classified as a “waste-free” product. However, waste processed in this way is not ideal from an environmental point of view (they still have some toxicity), so compost can be used no earlier than after 3 years (peat-based compost is ready for use after 1-2 of the year).
Advantages of liquid dry toilets
- light and compact (can be transported in the trunk of a car);
- no ventilation device required;
- tightness and hygiene, which allows the products to be installed even indoors (for example, in a room where a seriously ill patient is located).
Disadvantages of liquid dry toilets
- relatively high operating costs due to expensive concentrates;
- problem with waste disposal.
When is it appropriate to use. Liquid dry closets are attractive due to their mobility: they can be installed anywhere and taken with you outdoors. They are especially good as an individual option, because... for a family of even 3 people, a 12 liter capacity will clearly not be enough (it will have to be changed every 2-3 days), and not everyone can lift a container with a larger capacity.
Electric dry toilets
If you look at it from the point of view of ease of use, then this is the optimal alternative to a country toilet. Human organic matter (all or only its solid fraction) in an electric dry closet is loosened, heated and dried by an air flow forced by a fan. Due to this, the processed mass decreases in volume several times, after which it is composted. The need to use water for flushing depends on the type of toilet (compost or cassette). There are models with a combustion chamber where waste turns into ash, and an even more exotic option with freezing.
Installation of an electric dry closet.
Advantages of electric dry closets
- absolute safety for the environment;
- ease of operation and maintenance;
- no chemicals;
- long interval between tank cleanings.
Disadvantages of electric dry toilets
- high cost (average price is 42-45 thousand rubles);
- the need to ensure a positive temperature, forced ventilation, and in most cases, drainage;
- energy dependence.
When is it appropriate to use. If funds allow and there is a source of electricity, an electric dry closet is the most technologically advanced solution.
In developed countries it is gaining more and more popularity.
Ten best models of dry toilets
10. Separett Camping 1165
An excellent solution for a good outdoor recreation at a considerable distance from the conveniences of civilization, and the arrangement of this toilet will take a minimum of time and effort. This is a rather original design that does not require any water for flushing, and also does not require the additional purchase of consumables such as liquids for breaking down waste. This model is a folding product that is very convenient to transport to any place. The product is produced according to the standard scheme of composting dry closets. Solid and liquid waste are not mixed in it, which allows the product capacity to be significantly higher and prevents the formation of unpleasant odors. The device is absolutely safe for the environment. The set includes a special fabric bag for easy storage and carrying.
It is worth noting that waste is not processed here: liquid waste passes through a special filter element and is discharged into the environment through a hose, while solid waste enters a biodegradable bag. Once it is full, it is removed and thrown into a regular compost pit. The volume of the waste tank is as much as 23 liters, so the bag takes a long time to fill. The seat height is 54.1 cm – quite comfortable for an adult.
Advantages:
- Does not require water or sewerage;
- No need to purchase consumables;
- Absolutely safe for the environment;
- The waste can be used as fertilizer;
- Features excellent capacity;
- Reasonable cost;
- Foldable design.
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Flaws:
- You will still have to change the filter for liquid waste, but this should be done quite rarely.
Separett Camping 1165
9. Thetford Porta Potti 565E
The products stand out not only with their rather original design, but also with their seat height and shape. The seat surface has a significant area, so this toilet will be suitable for a person of any age. The design includes a control panel equipped with a pump, a filling block, and there is also a level indicator for the drain tank, which is located near another indicator that notifies you about the degree of fullness of the drain tank. The model has a built-in toilet paper holder. The design is two-part: a flush cistern connected to a small toilet, which has a removable seat and lid. The lower section is a waste tank. Sections are easy to separate if necessary. To do this, there is a latch on the back of the unit. The drain tank is equipped with a pipe, so emptying it is also very simple.
There is no need to clean individual parts. The drain tank has a pressure release button, so there will be no splashing when emptying. There is a clamp here that holds the pipe in one place. The manual piston pump is easy to use and allows for efficient flushing of waste. Depending on the modification, an electric pump powered by batteries can be installed, and one set of them will be enough for about 700 flushes.
Advantages:
- Convenient and easy to use design;
- Easy to separate sections;
- Excellent workmanship and assembly quality;
- The device is equipped with a comfortable seat for all ages.
Flaws:
- Special liquid will be quite expensive.
Thetford Porta Potti 565E
Thetford Porta Potti Qube 145
It has a body made of high-strength plastic. Like the previous model, the design of this dry toilet consists of two parts: the upper one is a tank with flushing fluid and the toilet bowl, the lower one is a waste tank into which disinfectant is poured. The waste breaks down very quickly and takes up minimal space, so you won’t have to empty the tank too often. If two or three people use the device, cleaning will be done on average once a week. This operation is easy to perform: turn off the lower tank, open the pipe and drain the accumulated substances into a special place for disposal of biological waste.
The products are characterized by convenient operation and a high level of reliability. This dry toilet will be well suited for small children, as its seat is not very high. The device is small in size, so it is easy to transport from one place to another. The lid has a secure lock so you don’t have to worry about it opening during transportation. The developers carefully thought out the flushing system - when using a special pump, a minimum amount of liquid is wasted. The pump itself operates using a special pump, which even a child can use. There are no unpleasant odors when using this device.
Advantages:
- Insignificant mass;
- Compact overall dimensions;
- Easy to use;
- Great for all ages.
- No foreign or unpleasant odors are formed during use;
- Attractive design.
Flaws:
- The lever used to separate the elements of the device is very tight.
Thetford Porta Potti Qube 145
Enviro 10
Another very budget-friendly solution for ensuring complete recreation in nature or while traveling. The design is portable in size, making it also suitable for caring for people with limited mobility. This is a Canadian-made model, made in the form of two sections: an upper tank with a seat and a lower storage tank. The volume of the first is 10 liters, the second is 20 liters. The container for draining sewage is emptied and cleaned with ease due to the presence of a convenient pipe, additionally equipped with a manual pump. The product is designed for constant use by 3-4 people. A special liquid that breaks down waste will have to be poured into the drain tank. The height of the device is only 42 cm, so even children can easily use it. The body has convenient handles for carrying the structure. The volume of the upper tank is designed for approximately 45 flushes.
It is recommended to pour the contents of the lower compartment into the drain hole. The design is completely autonomous, but there is no indication of tank fullness. The main part is quite durable, characterized by an increased level of strength and good resistance to corrosion processes. The design has a drain valve that prevents liquid and unpleasant odors from leaving the drain tank.
Advantages:
- The body of the product, including the storage tank, is made of special polystyrene, which perfectly resists low temperatures;
- There is no need to connect the product to the electrical network or water supply;
- Economical water consumption for flushing;
- A drain valve is provided to prevent unpleasant odors.
Flaws:
- You have to purchase special liquids for disinfection and decomposition of waste products.
Enviro 10
Biolet 25
A product from a well-known Swedish company, which, when releasing its products, pays special attention to its environmental friendliness and comfort. The processing of human waste here is carried out by launching the natural processes of rotting and decomposition. For this purpose, at the bottom of this device there is a special camera made using the latest technologies. The design includes an exhaust hood and a ventilation system. The thermostat and other heating elements are adjustable, there is a whole system of indicators and sensors, as well as a large number of additional elements. For full use, these products must be connected to a household electrical outlet.
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The operation of this equipment is ensured exclusively using environmentally safe materials. A compost-type filler is poured into the container where the sewage arrives, and a special humus catalyst is also added. These compositions are thoroughly mixed until a homogeneous mixture is obtained, where decomposition processes are immediately activated. The engine starts up after the feces arrive and mixes them with the compost, providing constant access to oxygen. The lower part of the container, where waste is processed, is a grate through which dry humus is poured into a tray. Recycled waste can be placed in a compost bin. The design is also equipped with heating, which will create an optimal environment for bacteria responsible for rotting processes.
Advantages:
- Ease of use;
- Recycled waste can be used as fertilizer;
- Long service life;
- Comfortable to use.
Flaws:
- It is necessary to consider connecting to a power source and providing a ventilation system.
Biolet 25
Separett Villa 9000
Another Swedish product. The body of this dry closet is made of high-quality plastic, which can perfectly withstand low temperatures. Both compartments are made of polished polystyrene, which can withstand significant physical abuse. The seat is covered with a layer of polypropylene, which can well resist wet and aggressive environments. When installing this design, it should be taken into account that in order to fully use it, you will have to connect the model to the power supply, since there is a built-in fan that cannot be turned off in order to maintain clean air in the room. It works absolutely silently. The overall dimensions of the structure are small: 541 mm in height, 456 mm in width and 672 mm in depth with a total empty weight of 13 kg. The capacity of the lower tank is 23 liters.
Such a dry closet will not cost too much and will be very useful in places where there is no running water or sewer system. People of all ages can use this equipment. You won’t have to empty the storage tank too often – about once every three to four months. The design looks quite aesthetically pleasing; outwardly it is practically no different from standard toilets.
Advantages:
- Decent storage tank capacity;
- Reasonable cost;
- Safe for the environment - no need to add chemicals to decompose waste;
- There is not the slightest hint of an unpleasant odor.
Flaws:
- The need for ventilation and electrical connections.
Separett Villa 9000
Piteco 506
Composting products designed specifically for use in a private home or cottage. There is no need to connect to sewerage or other communications, including electricity. This dry closet is made from reliable polypropylene. It has a direct-flow ventilation pipe through which all unpleasant odors will escape. A special bag filled with peat mixture, whose capacity is 30 liters, is supplied with the product. The composition is loaded into the tank with a scoop. The tank itself is located at the top of the structure, and the waste is directed into a container. The products belong to the middle price category. Installing this model is quite simple - no additional preparation is required. The main thing in this case is to choose a flat area in the room and think about the location of the exhaust pipe and drainage hose, which, as a rule, takes a minimum amount of time.
The peat mixture here is natural peat itself, mixed with sawdust and dolomite flour. The process of waste decomposition occurs quite quickly, there is no unpleasant odor, therefore, it will not attract insects. The cost of the peat mixture is low, and you will have to purchase it quite rarely.
Advantages:
- There is absolutely no unpleasant odor;
- The exhaust pipe can be taken outside the room either through the roof or through the wall;
- Made from very high quality materials;
- Attractive appearance.
Flaws:
- The exhaust pipe does not have a complete hood and must be purchased separately.
Piteco 506
Piteco 905
The top three best dry closets of the year open with a very popular model that appeared on the market more than three years ago. It fully complies with all sanitary requirements in force on Russian territory. This is a completely self-contained composting type design. A special peat composition specially developed by the manufacturer is poured into it, which absorbs excess moisture and promotes the rapid processing of human waste. Thanks to all these factors, unpleasant odors do not arise. Like most similar models, the design of such a dry closet includes two elements. The top one consists of a special container into which the mixture is poured, there is also a feeding mechanism and a seat with a lifting lid. If necessary, the latter can be removed. The lower part is a storage tank equipped with drainage and a filtration system.
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All waste that gets inside is divided into solid and liquid. They do not mix with each other. The body, like most similar devices, is made of polypropylene. He looks quite attractive. The volume of the storage tank is quite decent - as much as 120 liters, so you won’t need to empty it too often. Despite such a significant capacity, the design of the dry closet is still very compact in size. Installation of the structure is quite simple; it stands on a special base, thanks to which it becomes even more stable.
Advantages:
- There is no foreign smell during use;
- The original composition of the peat mixture, which significantly speeds up waste processing;
- Easy to install;
- If desired, you can find accessories for sale.
Flaws:
- There is a possibility of drainage leakage.
All the secrets of PITECO 905. Peat dry toilet for a summer residence. Peat biotoilet for cottages
Piteco 905
Sanitation Equipment Limited Mr. Little Mini 18
Manufactured in China using precise Canadian technology. The volume of the receiving container here is as much as 24 liters. The water tank can hold up to 15 liters of liquid. The parts are connected to each other using latches located on the sides of the structure. The developers have carefully thought out the drainage system - water is supplied here from both sides of the bowl, which allows not only to effectively wash away sewage, but also to save water. The product is a portable model that can be moved to any place and used for its intended purpose, since no installation is required. The storage capacity is quite decent, so this device can be used for several weeks without cleaning. In general, as the manufacturer claims, the device is capable of satisfying the natural human needs of 4-7 people.
It is worth noting that on the body of the device you can find two indicators at once, each of which indicates the degree of fullness of its tank. In turn, this greatly simplifies the maintenance and operation of this equipment. Even people with disabilities and children can use this device. The unit is made of impact-resistant plastic that does not absorb foreign odors and can easily withstand low temperatures.
Advantages:
- Despite the decent capacity, the design has quite acceptable overall dimensions;
- During operation there is not the slightest foreign odor;
- Quite high quality products;
- The manufacturer has provided the necessary indicators.
Flaws:
- Draining accumulated waste is not very convenient.
Bio toilet Mr Little
Sanitation Equipment Limited Mr. Little Mini 18
Thetford Porta Potti Qube 365
The leader in our review of the best dry closets was one of the most compact liquid-type models, which was developed by engineers of a Dutch company and first appeared on the market at the very beginning of last year. The structure of the product is quite simple, so any family member can use it - from a small child to an elderly person. The biotoilet copes quite effectively with the function of processing feces. The body of the structure is made of high-strength plastic, so the unit can withstand loads of up to 150 kg. The toilet is arranged in a standard way – the developers haven’t come up with anything new in this area: two containers, a bowl and a seat. You can wash off the waste using a special pump. The lower tank is closed with a special damper, which blocks foreign odors.
There is a special indicator indicating that the drain tank is full and needs to be emptied. A special pipe is provided for this process. There is no need to disassemble the structure and clean its elements separately. The toilet has a pressure release button to prevent the contents from splashing out. The volume of the lower tank is 21 liters - for two people this parameter is enough for about a week. The structure can be used in a temperature range from -40 to +60 degrees. The seat height here is 408 mm with overall dimensions of 427x414x383 mm. The manufacturer provides a guarantee for this design for three years with a stated service life of at least 10 years.
Advantages:
- Compact design;
- Retains unpleasant odors well;
- If you follow the instructions, it will last quite a long time;
- Easy to maintain.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Review Liquid dry toilet THETFORD Porta Potti Qube 365
Thetford Porta Potti Qube 365
The best electric and mechanical dry toilets
Separrett Villa 9000
Separrett Villa 9000 (Sweden) is a composting dry toilet that works on the principle of separating waste into solid and liquid fractions. The first is dried by a fan and accumulates inside the container, the second is discharged outside with a hose. Energy costs are significantly lower than for mixtures and concentrates.
Main characteristics:
- storage tank capacity: 23 l;
- seat height: 44.0 cm;
- dimensions: 45.6×54.1×67.2 cm;
- weight: 13.0 kg.
Watch the product video
Pros of Separrett Villa 9000
- There are no problems with waste disposal.
- No need to purchase consumables.
- Minimal maintenance (tank cleaning every 3-4 months).
- Almost complete absence of odors thanks to forced ventilation.
Cons of Separrett Villa 9000
- Urine sometimes gets into the storage tank due to the imperfect design of the urinal.
- Energy dependence.
- Price (from 42 thousand rubles).
Conclusion. Despite the high price, the toilet is popular among users who want to minimize the worries and costs of caring for and operating this product. In addition, the resulting compost is ready for use as fertilizer.
Dry toilet for a summer residence: subtleties of choice
The models of dry closets on sale are numerous and varied. It is easier to choose a suitable model based on the following criteria:
- Volume of storage (lower) section . An important parameter that determines the frequency of cleaning the unit. It is selected taking into account the number of people who will use it. If the device is purchased for one person, a dry toilet with a capacity of 10-15 liters is suitable. If there are three users, the lower 20 liter container will have to be cleaned every three days.
- Dimensions . Before purchasing, you need to decide whether a portable dry closet will be enough, or whether a more substantial device will be required (with the allocation of space in the house or an extension) .
- Convenience . The standard seat height is 40-45 cm. Before purchasing, make sure that the selected model is comfortable to use.
All models are easy to assemble and maintain Source ms.decorexpro.com