And how to properly route your vent hose to the exterior for clean, consistent airflow.
If you’re planning to install the OGO™ ORIGIN Compost Toilet tight to the back wall, here’s what you need to know:
Yes, you can install it flush. But for performance, ease of use, and cleaner venting—we recommend leaving space.
This article breaks down ideal wall clearance, why it matters, and how to route your vent hose to the exterior shell vent based on our floor mounting drawing.
Recommended Clearance from the Wall
While the toilet base allows for flush installation, we’ve found that a 2-inch gap between the back of the toilet and the wall gives you a better fit and function.
Here’s why that 2" space matters:
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Pushes the toilet bowl slightly backward, giving you more front clearance for sitting, lifting the lid, or stepping in narrow spaces.
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Allows smoother hose routing—especially if you're running a vent hose directly out of a wall to an exterior vent.
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Reduces stress on the power jack and hose connection, both located near the back corner of the unit.
So yes, flush is possible—but if you’ve got the space, go with 2 inches off the wall.
Understanding the Rear Layout (Vent + Power)
From the OGO™ ORIGIN base drawing:
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Vent Hose Connector Height: ~13" from floor to T-bar center
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Power Jack Height: ~12.25" from floor
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Both are located in the rear right corner (by default)
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Hose OD: 1.6825"
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Hose End ID: 1.6", fits perfectly over 1-1/4" PVC
These low, compact placements make rear venting easy—if you allow room to route the hose cleanly.
How to Route the Vent Hose to an Exterior Shell Vent
Whether you’re in a van, cabin, or tiny home, routing the vent hose out through the wall is one of the best ways to ensure reliable airflow.
Here’s how:
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Determine your exit point
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Use the floor drawing to locate your base.
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Measure 13" up from the floor and mark your exit spot on the wall behind the toilet.
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Add a slight downward angle (ideally 45°) for the hose to direct moisture down and out.
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Drill your exit hole
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Use a 1-5/8" hole saw to drill through the wall.
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This fits 1-1/4" PVC pipe for venting through thick or thin structures.
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Mount your OGO™ Exterior Shell Vent
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On thin walls (van or RV): secure directly with bolts through the shell and interior hose flange.
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On thick walls (tiny house, wood siding): use a PVC pipe extension through the wall, seated into the shell vent plate.
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Connect the hose
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Push one end of the OGO™ vent hose onto the toilet’s T-bar connector.
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Attach the other end to the PVC extension or directly into the shell vent, depending on your wall type.
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Secure and test
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Ensure there are no kinks in the hose.
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Power the unit on—feel for airflow at the exterior vent.
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If venting into a tight space (like a drawer cabinet), consider upgrading to our High-CFM Fan to improve airflow.
Optional Enhancements
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Charcoal Filter: If venting short distances or into interior cabinets, a charcoal filter can be added to neutralize residual odor.
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Swapping Vent Sides: Need the vent on the left instead? No problem. You can pop out and switch the fan and filter insert locations. See our Insert Swap Guide.
Final Word
Your install should work with your space—not against it. Leaving just 2 inches of clearance behind your OGO™ ORIGIN can make a big difference in hose routing, airflow, and comfort.
Measure. Mount. Vent cleanly.
Need help visualizing the cutout or planning around cabinetry? Our support team is here to guide you through the details.