NATURE LOO NL3, Owner'S Manual

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12 IMNL-010-2024-01-08 ecoflo.com.au
PH 1300-138-182
HOW COMPOSTING WORKS
When do I empty the secondary chamber?
As a general rule, you should leave the material in the compost chamber as long as possible. This
toilet has been designed for 2 people full time where the average monthly temperature is greater
than 18°C in any given month. The higher the temperature (within the optimum range), the faster
the compost process. As a reference, 50 days is required to reach 50% (half life) decomposition with
a compost temperature ranging between 22-24°C. If there is more than 2 people using the toilet or
you are in a colder area then additional compost chambers may be required. Additional compost
chambers can be purchased from Ecoflo WM.
How can I tell if my compost is ready?
The size of the pile should have reduced in size by approximately 20%. Finished compost should
appear crumbly and moist (similar to fresh potting mix), not sodden or dry. It should not have any
offensive odour, just an earthy one. Also, the pile should not be producing high heat any longer.
How do I dispose of composted material?
All composted product should be handled and treated with caution as there is a risk of exposure to
pathogens particularly if the product is not properly composted. Recommended protective clothing
includes gloves, appropriate footwear, a face mask and eye protection.
You should dispose of the composted waste in accordance with any and all local authority
regulations. For an on-site burial of composted end product, it should be undertaken in a location
where direct access by humans and animals is restricted. It should be buried with a minimum cover
of 100mm within soil that is not intended for the cultivation of root vegetables or nearby a water
catchment area.
Explanation of the Composting Process
Our composting toilet uses a natural aerobic process called Thermophilic composting. Basically,
aerobic microbes, actinomycetes bacteria and fungi generate heat and break down waste into
odourless compost that’s safe to handle.
To explain it in detail, it begins with the piling and layering of waste and carbon-rich materials
like wood shavings. Initially, mesophilic microorganisms break down easily decomposable
materials, releasing energy in the form of heat. As the temperature surpasses 45°C (113°F),
thermophilic microorganisms, including heat-tolerant bacteria and fungi, become dominant. These
microorganisms rapidly decompose complex organic compounds, generating even more heat.
The sustained high temperatures in the thermophilic phase accelerates the breakdown of organic
matter, kills pathogens, and promotes nutrient release. The compost pile naturally cools down after
the thermophilic phase, allowing mesophilic microorganisms to continue decomposition at a slower
pace.