What is a urine diverter?
All compost toilets divert urine. It goes into usually a bottle that has to be dumped every couple of days. The achieve this is different ways, in the OGO™ Compost Toilet, it is our trap door system, ensuring solids go into the bin and urine is diverted into a drain pan that sits directly over the bottle.
What if I don't want to dump my urine?
Compost toilets are great. However, dumping the urine bottle is the only “gross” part about it. Most only hold 2 gallons if not less, making this an almost everyday chore. For the more permanent off-grid builds, we suggest installing a system like our drain kit, to say goodbye to the bottle. There are many DIY methods that can work, just keep in mind that urine contains various minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which can form deposits within these fixtures over time. To prevent this, we recommend cleaning regularly. It can be as easy as pouring hot water through the system, however, like our kit, it is best to be able to disassemble it for deep cleaning.
How do I connect a Drain Kit?
There are other articles that dive into How to install a drain kit within your compost toilet, but before you install go over the options of what you want to attach to your unit in your build. Grey tank, existing black tan, filtration/recycling system? Everybody is different and so are their builds there is not a cookie-cutter answer. There are pros and cons for all options, you will need to find what works for you, your build, and your budget.
You will need to install plumbing to connect the pipe to the existing black tank. This will typically involve running a pipe or hose from the urine container to a fitting on the black tank. It is recommended to use a professional plumber or RV technician for this step to ensure proper installation and prevent leaks.
How can I prevent odor from my black tank?
If you are connecting to an existing black tank, we suggest you clean it out completely and install filters, gas valves, drain seals, or other methods to prevent odors from arising, especially when in motion. Regular cleaning of your black tank is essential to prevent odors. After dumping your tank, use a tank wand or sprayer to flush it out thoroughly.
Proper ventilation is crucial for keeping your RV smelling fresh and preventing odors from your black tank. When your RV is closed up, odors can accumulate and linger, making your living space unpleasant. Here are some tips for proper ventilation:
Open windows – One of the easiest and most effective ways to ventilate your RV is to open windows. This will allow fresh air to circulate and push out any stale or odorous air. Even if it’s cold outside, opening a window for a short time can make a big difference.
Use exhaust fans – Your RV likely has exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen areas. These fans are designed to pull out moisture and odors, so make sure to use them regularly. Turn them on while showering, cooking, or using the toilet to keep the air moving.
Use a roof vent – A roof vent can help create a constant flow of air in your RV. Make sure to leave it open while you’re using your RV and close it when you leave to prevent rain or debris from entering.
Install a window fan – If you want to keep the air circulating even when you’re not in your RV, consider installing a window fan. This will pull fresh air into your RV and push out any stale or odorous air.
Monitor humidity levels – High humidity can lead to moisture buildup and musty odors. Use a dehumidifier or open windows when the humidity is high to prevent odors from forming.
If I have a compost toilet do I need a black tank?
Whether or not you need a black tank with a compost toilet depends on a few factors, including your personal preferences and the specific regulations in your area.
If you have a compost toilet and are able to dispose of the liquid waste separately, such as by using a separate gray water system or drain, then you may not need a black tank. However, if you are not able to dispose of the liquid waste separately, then you may need a black tank to store and transport the waste.
The benefits of being able to remove the black tank are simple if there is no black tank you can add another freshwater tank, which if you are a boon docker is a game changer! The other obvious reason is odor. If you divert your urine into a grey tank there it is going to be diluted with your grey water, in a black tank it would just be urine, increasing the chance for odor. Also, if an existing black tank still has solids in it you will get a sewage smell.
Additionally, regulations regarding the use of compost toilets and black tanks can vary by location. Some areas may require the use of a black tank in conjunction with a compost toilet, while others may allow composting toilets to be used without a black tank. It’s important to research the regulations in your area and ensure that you are in compliance with local laws and regulations.
Ultimately, whether or not you need a black tank with a compost toilet will depend on your specific circumstances and the regulations in your area. It’s important to carefully consider your options and ensure that you are disposing of waste in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
