How to Make a Composting Toilet

A composting toilet accumulates and allows the breakdown of human waste in a container rather than moving it into a sewer or septic system. Composting toilets can be installed indoors or in an outhouse setting. This type of toilet is generally used in rural and recreational properties located away from sewer and water service. Periodic removal of the contents of the composting toilet is required.

Things You'll Need

• Lined barrel
• Treated lumber
• PVC pipe
• Nails
• Screws

Instructions

Building a Composting Toilet

1. Acquire the materials. Much of the material needed to build a composting toilet is available at lumber or home supply stores. One item may require a bit of scavenging. A principal component of the toilet is a barrel. Lined barrels last longer than unlined due to the corrosive nature of urine on steel. Common sources of a surplus lined barrel include feed stores and beekeepers. Also, acquire PVC ventilation pipes that will reach from the barrel above the roof of the structure housing the toilet.

2. Build the toilet. Construct any framework and supports necessary to hold the barrel in place. Keep in mind this barrel must be removed and cleaned periodically. If the barrel is placed in the basement, make sure the stairs are capable of supporting the weight of the barrel and its contents. If the composting toilet is installed in an outhouse, make sure there is a way to remove the barrel.

3. Construct the seat area. The seat seals off the composting chamber when the lid is closed. This is meant to keep odor from the composting toilet from entering the living space. Use exterior-grade materials for all construction around the composting toilet. The bench and seat area can be painted or finished to match the décor of the room.

4. Install ventilation pipe. Ventilation serves several purposes. The vent pipe carries odor away from the toilet and allows oxygen to reach the matter in the barrel that will promote bacterial action breaking down the waste. The vent pipe must extend from the area of the barrel to a point high enough above the roof to promote a good draft. The pipe should be capped to prevent rain, bugs or birds from entering the pipe and the toilet.

Tips & Warnings

• Check local zoning regulations regarding sewer system requirements. Local ordinances may define how the waste is disposed of as well.

• The lumber required will vary greatly depending on where the composting toilet will be installed. The actual toilet seat will be mounted above the barrel. If the base of the composting toilet is at floor level, steps are necessary to reach the toilet seat. If the barrel is placed in a basement or crawl space below floor level, a pedestal is necessary to raise the toilet seat to a comfortable level.

References

• National Water Center