Long Term Travel on a Sailboat – Preparations
What care should I take with my Air Head Composting Toilet
Sailing offers unparalleled freedom and adventure, but managing a traditional marine toilet can be a real headache. They always seem to break at the most inconvenient times, like when you have guests onboard. From raw water blockages and leaks to blocked outlet pipes and worn-out pumps, the list of potential issues is endless. Plus, the cost of service kits can be exorbitant, especially when you need to stock up before an extended amount of time off-grid.
Fortunately, composting toilets, like the Air Head Composting Toilet, offer a hassle-free alternative. This guide will show you how simple it is to maintain a composting toilet on a sailboat, making your time on the water more enjoyable and less stressful.
The Simplicity of Composting Toilets
Composting toilets are incredibly straightforward and simple to maintain compared to traditional marine toilets. Here’s why:
- Minimal Breakdowns: Composting toilets have very few moving parts, reducing the risk of something going wrong.
- No Raw Water Issues: Unlike marine heads that rely on raw water (fresh or salt), composting toilets don’t require water for flushing, eliminating the risk of leaks and blockages.
- No worn out pumps or gaskets. Composting toilets eliminate the hassle of dealing with worn-out pumps and gaskets, common issues with traditional marine toilets. This means fewer breakdowns, reduced maintenance costs, and a more reliable system for your sailing adventures.
- Odor Control: Air Head Composting Toilets have fans and vents included to remove odors from the head, and out of the boat. No more coming back to a boat that stinks!
- Processes Waste: Instead of merely storing it, the composting toilet aerobically transforms foul smelling human waste into earthy compost which significantly reduces odor to the point that it is practically undetectable near the vent exit.
Essential Items for Long-Term Trips
Even though composting toilets are low-maintenance, it’s wise to carry a few essential items on long-term trips to ensure smooth sailing:
1. Coco Peat Bricks
Coco peat bricks are the compost medium used in Air Head toilets. They are lightweight, easy to store, and highly effective at composting waste because of its all manual components. Make sure to bring enough especially for your long trips. Other materials will work as well: paper based pet beddings, corn cob kitty litter, even coffee grounds.
2. Paper Carriers
Paper carriers help manage toilet paper disposal efficiently. They are biodegradable and compatible with composting toilets, ensuring the system remains unclogged.
3. Extra Vent/Fan
Having an extra vent or fan on hand can be a lifesaver if the installed one fails. Proper ventilation is crucial for odor control and effective composting.
4. Extra Vent Hose
An extra vent hose ensures you can replace any damaged or worn-out hose quickly, maintaining the system’s efficiency.
5. Extra Solids Tank and Venting Lid
This allows further composting of the solids material on the deck or boat interior (if connected to the air system).
6. Extra Liquid Bottle
Doubles the capacity of the 3L liquid bottle. It’s an easily removable liquid bottle which comes with one cap and two thumbscrews.
Composting Toilet Maintenance: Tips to Know
Maintenance of composting toilets should be straightforward. Here are a few tips to keep it in top shape:
- Regular Emptying: Depending on usage, you’ll need to empty the solid waste container every few weeks to a couple of months. Liquid waste should be disposed of more frequently.
- Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior regularly and clean the interior as needed. Use mild, biodegradable cleaners to avoid harming the composting process.
- Ventilation Check: Ensure the vent system is working correctly. Check for any blockages and replace the vent fan or hose if needed.
- Monitor Compost Medium: Keep an eye on the compost medium level and top up with coco peat bricks as necessary to maintain optimal composting conditions.
Set Sail With Confidence
Maintaining your Air Head Composting Toilet on your sailboat is a breeze compared to the constant troubles of a traditional marine head. With fewer moving parts, no raw water dependency, and easy-to-manage components, you’ll spend less time worrying about your toilet and more time enjoying your voyage. By keeping a few essential items on hand and following simple maintenance tips, your Air Head Composting Toilet will remain efficient and trouble-free, making your off-grid sailing experience even more enjoyable.
Set sail with confidence, knowing your composting toilet is one less thing to worry about on your adventure!
