I recently acquired a book called, Building Green by Clarke Snell & Tim Callahan. In their writing, one of the items they suggest be installed is a type of toilet called a "composting toilet". This odd looking device turns it's own contents into usable compost for the garden, much like a back yard compost. There is no flushing, but there is some maintenance.
This isn't the first time I've heard of such a thing. In fact, the first time I saw one (on you tube) I watched the lady discuss how she pooped into this bucket like thing with a lid, added peat moss for bulk and had to manually stir it. I wrinkled my nose in disgust and said, "Ugh, no way." After all, my aim isn't to have the most eco-friendly house on the block. I also thought that it would be smelly and disgusting, like having an indoor outhouse. And clearly unsanitary since you have to stir the thing. For my lifestyle, I felt that this was just too old school.
However after reading in the book, my slow brain realized that there must be something modern made. In which case, are they really gross? Surely someone has invented something less archaic than a toilet with a bucket.
Sure enough, I found a website or two:
There are many types of composting toilets. From self contained to central flush.
I spent a while reading the information and decided that this is a feasible solution after all. It *could* save the cost of purchasing and installing a septic system; upwards of $10,000. It would also eliminate the cost of the plumbing involved in recycling grey water from the sinks and showers to go in the toilets, and then out to the septic system.
I say *could* save money, because, each compost toilet costs around $1600-$5000; depending on the features. The fancier you go, the less money you save. So it comes down to a personal thing.
This thought isn't complete without a pro's and con's list.
Pro's of a Compost Toilet
- Possibly cheaper than a septic system - initial costs are less.
- Less complicated install (stack vent and overflow drain)
- Cheaper install costs (stack vent and overflow drain) Even if you pick the central system.
- It produces compost dirt for the flower garden
- Less wasted water, better for the environment, lower bills if you have to pay for water.
- Grey Water recycling system is not needed on waterless models
- IF you didn't install a stack or drain, you could technically place the thing anywhere you want.
- You'll never need a plumber. Waterless models won't need a plunger either!
- You can still use toilet paper, in fact, it's needed as part of the compost!
- In the case of Envirolet, it is made in North America.
- Up to 5 year warranty on parts and lifetime on the body.
- Plenty of choices in style and even colour. Lots of price points and vendors.
Con's of a Compost Toilet
- Bulking material is required and eventual emptying, once every few months.
- Composting must be tracked - it has to be emptied eventually - which takes 30 or more days.
- It's appearance can be ugly.
- It definitely will take some adjustment to get used to.
- Sorry ladies, can't put in personal items in some models. Best not to at all.
- Install may still be needed.
- In winter, the pile can't get cold, especially via the stack. Heater required.
- Local building codes may demand a septic system anyway.
- If you decide you hate it, it will be impossible or expensive to go back.
- Home layout may determine what models you can have. So you may not get a choice.
- Not as easy to purchase as a normal toilet. Research, special order, up to $300 shipping.
- Expensive to replace compared to a flush toilet.
