How does a dry closet work? What is it, instructions for use, review of the best models

The features of how a dry closet works depend on its design. The simplest option is peat toilets, in which waste is mixed with peat. There are also devices that burn waste products at high temperatures. Also popular are toilets that have a flush system installed and are disinfected with special preparations. The pros and cons of each type, as well as an overview of the best models, are described in the article.

Types of dry closets

If we talk about how a dry closet works and how much it lasts, the answer to this question depends on the type of device. The most common types are described below.

Peat (compost)

This is the simplest model, so it is the most affordable. It is not difficult to understand how a bio-toilet for a summer residence works. It consists of a tank and a seat with a lid. A mixture of peat is placed in the container, where the waste goes. Some models are also equipped with a fan pipe. It effectively removes odors.

The method of using a dry closet is simple. After the waste enters the peat, it is mixed with a special handle or spatula. The liquid comes out through a separate drainage pipe. Thus, the waste is not mixed, and the solid part turns into fertilizer - compost, which is what the name of this type is associated with.

The advantages of such models include:

• affordable price;
• fairly simple installation;
• environmentally friendly recycling;
• no electrical connection required;
• there is an opportunity to get fertilizer.

However, you will have to periodically bring in bags of peat composition, as well as remove waste. In addition, it is advisable to make drainage and install a ventilation pipe.

Electric

The operating principle of an electric dry closet is associated with burning waste at high temperatures - about 550 degrees. The process is carried out using a special heating element, which is connected to electricity. After burning, ash remains, which must be removed 1-2 times a week. This is what servicing biotoilets is all about.

Electric models have several advantages:

• effective cleaning - removing ashes is much easier than the waste itself;
• the penetration of odors is eliminated thanks to combustion and a built-in fan;
• the ashes can be used as fertilizer.

However, the cost of such devices is quite high, and installation is more complex. Another disadvantage is associated with the cost of electricity and the need to constantly purchase consumables - paper bags that contain waste.

Chemical (liquid)

This is a device consisting of 2 main parts:

1. Top – container, lid, seat and pump.
2. Bottom - valve and pipe, place for filler.

The instructions for using a dry closet describe the operating principle of such devices. After use, the waste is washed off with water, then falls into a storage container with a solution of a special chemical, for example, formaldehyde. It destroys all bacteria that cause the unpleasant odor.

The advantages of such models are obvious:

• no installation required;
• the operating principle and maintenance of the dry closet are quite simple;
• you can purchase a compact device and transport it to any place;
• no need for drainage;
• ventilation is also not needed, and the spread of odors is eliminated;
• the price is quite affordable;
• The model does not depend on electricity.

There are also disadvantages - they are associated with the need to regularly purchase disinfectant liquids. But if you use safe products, for example “BIOwc RINSE + ECO Gree”, the waste can be used as fertilizer.

Instructions for use

The rules of use depend on how the dry closet is designed. But in any case, you first need to install it, and then you can use it. For example, in the case of a chemical (liquid) device, you need to act like this:

1. Remove the valve on the rear side to the left to allow liquid and solid waste to flow out.
2. Place the drainage tank at a slight angle. Turn the drain pipe towards it so that it “looks” up.
3. Unscrew the cap from the pipe and pour the required volume of special toilet liquid through the drain pipe. Next, it’s easy to understand how to use a dry closet at home. Water should be added to the liquid - 2 liters is enough to completely cover the bottom.
4. Next, put the cap back on the drain pipe and screw it on. Then the pipe is turned to its original position and the drainage tank is installed. Place a container of water on it at a right angle. Press this container downwards. Thanks to this, it will automatically lock.
5. Remove the lid from the flush tank and pour clean water into it. A special product is added to improve rinsing and maintain freshness. Close the lid of the water container.
6. Open and immediately close the valve blade installed on the drain tank. Moreover, its lid must be closed. This is done in order to prevent excessive pressure increase.
7. Add a little water to the housing and press the pump.
8. Then you can start using it, after which you pull out the lever to open the valve blade. Flushing is carried out by pressing the pump, and then the blade is closed.
9. You also need to figure out how to clean the dry closet. Work begins the moment the indicator lights up red. The flush tank is separated and emptied.
10. The instructions on how to clean a dry closet for a summer residence are quite simple. After emptying, you need to put the tank back in place by pressing the release button and holding it while emptying to avoid splashing.

Review of the best models

Along with the instructions for dry closets, it is useful to study the rating of the best models. If you focus on technical parameters, build quality and customer reviews, you will get the following review:

1. Thetford Porta Potti 145 - the installation of a dry toilet is associated with the treatment of waste with a disinfectant liquid. Storage tank with a volume of 12 liters, a drainage system is provided (a bellows pump is used for this). The device is lightweight, easy to carry, and affordable.
2. Piteco 905V - the principle of operation of a dry toilet for a summer residence is associated with composting waste in a peat mixture. The tank is very large, designed for 120 liters. The body is made of durable polypropylene; a high pipe with a built-in fan is provided to remove odors.
3. Separett Camping 1165 is an inexpensive device with a peat mixture. Portable design that is easy to transport to any place.The waste is filtered into solid waste, which ends up in peat, and liquid waste, which is discharged through a special corrugated pipe.
4. Separett Villa 9011 is an electric dry closet that effectively burns waste to ash. It costs more than other models, but provides maximum comfort. The tank volume is 23 l, a separate collection system is provided. Weight is 13 kg.
5. Bioforce Compact WC 12-20VD is an inexpensive chemical dry toilet with a 20 liter storage tank. Weighs only 6 kg, easy to carry from place to place. The device is quite simple, and the price is very affordable, so the model is in great demand.

Now it’s clear what it is – a dry closet, and how it works. Almost all modern models reliably block odors and do not pollute the environment. Among the simple and affordable options, we can recommend peat toilets. Electric devices provide maximum comfort, but they are significantly expensive. Therefore, chemical models can be chosen as a golden mean.

Before installation and first use, you must clarify how to disassemble the dry closet and install all the parts. The instructions are quite simple, so you can carry out the installation yourself.