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Healthy compost is spongy, moist, and granular, with a mild “earthy”
aroma of damp wool, mushrooms, parmesan cheese, or coffee. It
should look like healthy soil. Steam and heat rising are good signs.
Here are some common problems:
TRANSFERS TOO SOON:
Some compost will leak down to the lower tray, especially in the first
batch. This is normal and not a problem just put it back up top.
WILL NOT TRANSFER OR JAMS TOO OFTEN:
Repeat the transfer. Hard, large, fibrous, or stringy items can cause
problems – try to remove them. An overloaded mixing chamber can
also cause this problem – remove some material.
STRONG ODORS:
You may experience some odors especially in the beginning while the
cultures are being established. Make sure your unit is in PET MODE and
if compost is wet add more pellets and baking soda and leave for 24
hours. Repeat if necessary. If the mixing chamber is filled too high the
unit cannot get oxygen properly via mixing and the air pump and filter
as well. Please make sure you don’t over fill the unit.
SOUR, SHARP, OR AMMONIA ODORS:
These odors indicate too many green items. To balance compost with
more pellets and baking soda, wait 24 hours. Pet waste may require
extra pellets.
WINE AROMA:
Sometimes compost can smell like wine. This is normal. The aroma
should go away in a few days. Use PET MODE.
TROUBLESHOOTING
