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When building a summer cottage, we are faced with many problems, one of which is the arrangement of the sewage system. If the dacha is needed only for the summer period, then purchasing a dry closet will be a good way out. From this article you will learn about the types of country dry closets and the features of their operation..
Dry closets are an alternative to plumbing equipment connected to the sewerage and water supply network. Most of them not only do not harm the environment, but also give out fertilizers as a by-product that can be used at their summer cottage. Dry closets are portable (they can also be used on the road, at a picnic and in the hospital) and stationary.
Depending on the method of waste neutralization, modern dry closets are divided into three main types: peat, liquid (chemical) and electric. Let’s consider each type in more detail.
Peat dry closets
The most popular option today. Instead of water, peat mixtures are used here, which are poured into a special tank before using the toilet. To distribute the peat mixture in the waste container, you need to turn the dispenser knob.
Mixing with waste, peat with the help of aerobic mineralization turns them into compost, which can later be used as fertilizer. Due to the absorption capacity of peat, you can significantly save on filler – 1 kg of dry mix is enough for about 10 liters of liquid. The tank of such a dry closet is emptied as it fills.
When installing a peat dry closet, it will be necessary to take care of the removal of liquid fractions that are formed after the separation of waste. In addition, peat will not relieve you of the unpleasant smell, so you will have to equip the room with a ventilation system..
All parts of the device are made of plastic, which is easy to clean with household products. To clean it, just take it to an open area, disassemble it in detail and wash it with detergents.
The average cost of peat fillers for dry closets is 350–500 rubles per 30 liters. This volume is enough for a season, when using a dry closet for a family of three.
Benefits: simple stand-alone design, cheap filler, does not require the purchase of special chemicals, you can do it yourself, the output is an environmentally friendly fertilizer.
Disadvantages: the possibility of an unpleasant odor, emptying the composter is associated with inevitable contact with the humus product, bulky dimensions, the absence of a blocking flap of the receiving tank, manual flushing.
Liquid (chemical) dry closets
A chemical dry closet consists of two combined sections – in the upper there is a water tank, a toilet bowl, a seat and a pump. The lower section is a waste container with a volume of 12 to 24 liters. In the lower section there is a branch pipe for emptying the container. Some models have a full indicator.
Recycling of waste in liquid dry closets is carried out using chemical reagents that break down solid fractions and eliminate unpleasant odors. Before use, water and deodorizing liquid are poured into the upper tank, the lower tank is filled with sanitary liquid.
This type of dry closet is more convenient due to its compactness and ease of use, however, in order to obtain fertilizer at the output, it is necessary to use only natural compounds. There is now a wide variety of live bacteria formulations on the market that convert waste into biological fertilizer.
It can be installed both outdoors and indoors. When choosing the volume of the tank, pay attention to the fact that all fluids are active for about 14 days. In addition, different models of liquid dry closets are equipped with different types of pumps. Piston – the simplest option, in which you get a metered volume of water; it can be easily replaced by yourself. A pump pump of a more complex design, a metered volume of water cannot be obtained with it, only a specialist can replace it. The most convenient option is an electric pump, by simply pressing a button you get the required pressure with a metered volume of water, however it works on batteries, in case of a breakdown you will also have to contact a specialist.
As well as compost models, such a toilet can be easily cleaned with household products. Maintenance is reduced to the following steps: removing the receiving container at the bottom of the device, removing the contents of the container according to the instructions, rinsing the container with running water through the neck, filling with fresh reactive liquid, replenishing the supply of washing liquid in the tank.
Benefits: compactness, mobility, ease of use, absence of extraneous odors (except for the smell of deodorant liquid), the possibility of obtaining organic fertilizers.
Disadvantages: the need to purchase two types of special fluids; to repair or replace parts in complex models, you will need the help of a specialist.
Types of reactive fluids:
- Cosmetic fragrances and formaldehyde compounds. Effective for decomposing waste, but highly toxic. Waste treated with such fluids can only be disposed of in a centralized sewage system. Average price: 250-300 rubles per liter, which is enough for 2-3 months.
- Liquids based on ammonium compounds. The waste they recycle can be used for compost. Average price: 250-300 rubles per liter, which is enough for 2-3 months.
- Biological compounds with live bacteria. Recycle waste into organic fertilizers. Average price: 1700-2000 rubles per 100 g, they will also last for 2-3 months.
Electric dry closets
The lower capacity of the electric dry closet consists of two chambers – for solid and liquid waste. Solid fractions are dried at temperatures up to 550 degrees and collected in the form of ash in a container, which is then emptied once a week. Liquid fractions evaporate. At the dacha, such a toilet can be installed only if there is electricity, which is necessary for the operation of the compressor and ventilation.
No water or fillers are required to operate an electric toilet. Some models can operate at low temperatures. However, due to the fact that the device requires a constant connection to electricity, it is difficult to call it mobile. In addition, the receiver must not be heavily contaminated; cleaning should be minimal. The more water in the combustion chamber, the more energy the device will spend on waste neutralization.
You should also make sure that the room itself where such a toilet is installed is warm – so that it does not waste energy by heating cold air. The product is removed every 2-3 months. when used by two adults.
Benefits: compactness, ease of use, aesthetics, no fillers required, always clean and dry container.
Disadvantages: volatility, high price.
Average market prices for different types of dry closets
Name Manufacturer Volume, l Price, rub. Peat toilets “Compact M” Russia 60 3700 Piteco 400 Russia / Italy 70 15 800 Biolan Komplet Finland 140 19,500 Kekkila Ekomatic Finland 110 22,000 Liquid toilets SVITI 20L Russia 10/20 3990 ENVIRO 20 Canada 10/20 4600 Thetford Porta Potti LUXE USA 15/21 5 150 Mr. little Ideal 24 Canada 15/24 6 850 Electric dry closets Cinderella Norway 220,000 Separett Flame 8000 Sweden 249,000
I would like to know what factors should be considered when selecting a dry closet for a summer residence. Are there any specific features or considerations that are important in order to make the right choice? Additionally, are there any recommended brands or models that stand out in terms of durability and effectiveness? Any advice or guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Can someone provide some tips or advice on how to choose a dry closet for a summer residence? I’m looking for recommendations on what features to consider, like size, portability, odor control, and maintenance. Any personal experiences or product suggestions would be much appreciated!