Portable toilet: What is it and how does it work?
What is a portable toilet?
The technical components of a portable toilet
Holding Tank – Also known as septic tanks, they store the wastewater and sewage coming from the toilet unit. Having a holding tank reduces the frequency of emptying the waste.
Flushing mechanism – This process happens when you flush waste away. Portable toilets also flush away water and the chemicals used to break the waste down.
Pressure system – A pressure system is needed to help move the waste into the holding tank. The pressure is what pushes the water and chemicals through the pipe.
How do portable toilets work?
Chemicals are used in portable toilets to provide a safe and hygienic environment. Harmless to people, they are very effective in dealing with all types of waste bacteria.
A dye (usually blue), is used in the toilet itself. This is to mask the waste, but also for another important reason. Blue dye changes colour when the tank needs emptying. When the blue turns to green, the limit has been reached and it’s time to empty it.
Biocides prevent bacteria from growing in the waste. They work to reduce bad odours and allow more than one person to use the toilet before needing to be cleaned.
Fragrances provide the pleasant smell needed in a sanitary environment. And surfactants (detergents), help the other chemicals to work much more effectively.
How to use a portable toilet?
It makes sense to be careful about how much toilet roll you use. Portable toilets flush waste away into a nearby tank. This means there isn’t an unlimited amount of space available for waste storage. However, as our team provide a regular tank emptying service as standard, this isn’t a common issue.
What happens to the waste?
Portable toilets are different because they aren’t connected to a central waste system. When you flush a portable toilet, waste is carried to a holding tank. This is kept underneath the toilet seat and holds chemicals that are able to break down waste. They also kill germs and smells, as well as reduce any toilet paper.
Portable toilets benefits
Self-contained – They don’t need a connection to mains electricity or water to function. Portable toilets operate with only a flushing system and holding tank. This takes the hassle out of connecting pipes and electric costs.
Safety – Many portable toilet units have lighting. This makes them perfect for weddings and festivals to ensure safety for users at night.
Variety of units available – Portable toilets come in a range of forms. Whether you need standalone toilets or urinals, you will find a unit to suit you. There’s also the option of baby changing units and disabled access toilets as well. And if you want something a bit special, luxury toilet trailers are a great option.
Suit any location – The best thing about portable toilets is that they can fit any location. Think of remote or outdoor weddings, campsites, construction sites, environmsites, environmental areas, festivals, and parties. They can be positioned almost anywhere and provide backup to existing toilets.