The bucket compost toilet in our cabin has seen several revisions since we first installed it four years ago including adding a urine diverter and a vent fan. Each addition was just cobbled on and the toilet had some other issues that I was not happy with so I decided a full overhaul was in order.
The primary problems with the toilet were:
- Poor air sealing
- Inadequate ventilation/restricted airflow
- Odor issues stemming from the use of a P-trap
![](https://i0.wp.com/offgridburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/P3212479.jpg?resize=680%2C510&ssl=1)
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First, I built a tight compartment using 2x4s and 2x2s and sheathing it with a mix of 1/2″ and 3/4″ furniture grade plywood that I had left over from other projects. I reused top of the compartment and the urine diverter from the old toilet. I added a splash guard to the urine diverter and plumbed it in with 1 1/2″ PVC pipe.
![](https://i0.wp.com/offgridburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_20240320_152629.jpg?resize=680%2C510&ssl=1)
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I also reused the seat from old toilet. I attached 1/2″ foam to the bottom of the seat and lid to make a good seal.
![](https://i0.wp.com/offgridburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/P3010623.jpg?resize=680%2C383&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/offgridburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/P3010670.jpg?resize=680%2C383&ssl=1)
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Lastly, I cut a hole in the wall to accommodate a 2 inch pvc pipe and attached a muffin fan.
![](https://i0.wp.com/offgridburbia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/P3212485.jpg?resize=680%2C510&ssl=1)
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Remember to “Keep to the Code” (bucket colour code of course).
Higher toilet seat also helps older people to get up from the toilet!