FAQ
PERMANENT ECOLOGICAL
TOILET
What distinguishes your permanent ecological toilet from traditional models?
The permanent ecological toilet stands out with its use of a solar panel to power ventilation, creating air circulation that dries solid waste. Additionally, it incorporates efficient urine management and an odor evacuation system. Finally, its contemporary design blends well with current traditional constructions.
How does the solar panel-powered ventilation system work?
The solar panel powers a fan that creates air circulation inside the cabin, promoting the drying of solid waste while expelling odors outside through a chimney. The panel also powers LED lights installed on the cabin for added safety at night.
Can you explain the process of drying solid waste inside the cabin?
The drying process is activated by the solar panel-powered ventilation, which creates air circulation. Odors typically result from the maceration of solids and liquids, which is why our system separates the elements and improves air circulation to facilitate the drying of solid waste in the dry toilet. It passes through the solid waste receptacle and exits through the chimney outside to evaporate the liquids in the tank.
What is the capacity of the composite tank?
The tank is a composite hermetic tank. The storage capacity is calculated in liters. It can hold 1100 liters of liquid, equivalent to 5000 people, and 23 liters of solid waste, representing 115 people for the pump-out model. For pump truck pump-out, the capacity is 715 liters of liquid, representing 3250 people, and 46 liters of solid waste, representing 230 people.
How does the ecological toilet manage urine?
Urine is evaporated through a chimney, thereby reducing the volume of liquid waste and efficiently managing urinary flow.
Is it possible to use this ecological toilet in densely populated urban areas?
Yes, the permanent dry toilet can be used in urban areas, offering a sustainable solution for human waste management. However, the waste collection frequency will be higher due to higher usage. Therefore, it might be preferable to opt for our model connected to sewers and water for unlimited users if you experience winters above 0 degrees Celsius without freezing.
How does the ecological toilet manage undesirable odors?
Odors are typically due to the maceration of waste. The first step is that the system separates liquids from solids. Undesirable odors are drawn into the bowl by the ventilation system and then expelled outside through a chimney, ensuring an interior environment free of unpleasant odors.
What materials are used in the construction of the cabin?
The cabin is constructed of galvanized steel and baked paint, a robust and durable material ensuring the strength of the structure and its resistance to environmental conditions. The floor is made of non-rusting aluminum, anti-vandal hardware is made of stainless steel, and the bowl is made of HDPE polyethylene.
Is the ecological toilet suitable for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, the dry toilet is equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility, ensuring easy and comfortable access. The cabin construction is designed to comply with the B651-18 standard of the Canadian Building Code. The circular clearance for the wheelchair is 1810 millimeters or 71.25 inches, and the sliding door opening is 875 mm or 34.5 inches. The cabin is also equipped with stainless steel grab bars to facilitate access to the toilet.
What safety measures are in place for winterization, particularly regarding the door?
The cabin door has a provision for fitting a standard padlock provided by the client/owner. The access door to the tank is also locked using a padlock. Additional details on safety features can be provided if necessary.
What is the estimated lifespan of the permanent ecological toilet?
The estimated lifespan depends on various factors such as regular maintenance and usage conditions, but the robust steel design and durable components aim to ensure optimal longevity of several years. With normal maintenance, the system will have a lifespan of approximately 15 years.
How does the ecological toilet function in winter?
In an environment below freezing, liquids and solids will freeze and will not be able to evaporate or dry. If the toilet is used in winter below freezing, there will be no ventilation system. It will simply involve having a receptacle that needs to be emptied regularly by pump truck. If there is no freezing, the toilet will function normally.
What are the ecological benefits of your permanent ecological toilet?
The dry toilet offers significant ecological benefits by reducing water consumption, using solar energy for ventilation, and promoting sustainable management of human waste.
How does the steel cabin withstand weather conditions?
The steel cabin is designed to withstand weather conditions thanks to its durable materials, offering effective protection against weather conditions. They can withstand snow loads throughout the winter, and their dark-colored sloping roof helps melt snow even during cold periods.
Can you detail the tank emptying process?
The emptying of the tank depends on the specific capacity of the tank and usage. It is recommended to follow a regular maintenance schedule to ensure proper waste management based on site traffic. There are two ways to empty the tank: by pump truck or by manual collection using a biodegradable natural fiber bag. Simply remove the bowl and lift the floor trap door. Then pull the cord, and the bag will close. Note that the bag may drip slightly as it is ventilated. Therefore, it is recommended to have a plastic bucket with a lid for transporting the bag to compost.
What regular maintenance is required to maintain the proper functioning of the ecological toilet?
Regular maintenance involves periodic emptying of the tank, inspection of components, cleaning of ventilation
Is it possible to customize the cabin according to specific customer needs?
It is not possible to customize the cabin; however, we have several models that can meet your needs. An exception exists if you plan to purchase more than 10 complete units in a single order; then it will be possible to customize the color for an additional fee and an additional production time that will be evaluated upon request.
How does the ecological toilet contribute to the reduction of urban waste?
By eliminating the need to use water for flushing and promoting efficient waste management, the dry toilet contributes to reducing the quantity of urban waste.
What is the overall energy impact of your solar-powered system?
The energy impact is reduced through the use of a solar panel to power the ventilation, thus contributing to a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional toilets.
Can the ecological toilet be used in areas without direct access to sunlight?
The dry toilet can be used in areas without direct access to sunlight because it can store solar energy to power the ventilation during periods without sunlight. Additionally, the solar panel also works with ambient light and thus does not require direct sunlight to recharge the batteries. Note that recharging performance is more efficient when sunlight is directly on the panel. For specific positioning, feel free to contact us.
How does the ecological toilet handle periods of heavy usage?
The robust design of the dry toilet and its efficient ventilation system are designed to handle periods of heavy usage, ensuring optimal operation even under temporarily intense conditions of use. The toilet's performance is difficult to calculate as it depends on the different wastes deposited in the toilet and the external ambient temperature. A spaced and more consistent frequency will be easier to manage in liquid evaporation than a very short period of usage. Constant and annual evaporation of liquids will eventually empty the tank in the long term. If usage is more intense than expected, solids will not be able to dehydrate due to the continual addition of liquid, and therefore, tank emptying will be more frequent in those areas.
What safety considerations are associated with using the ecological toilet?
The main construction is made of robust and weather-resistant steel. The aluminum floor is non-slip even when wet. Stainless steel handicap assistance bars are present in the cabin. The roof's drip slope gradually removes snow during winter to avoid falling in front of the door or on the rear chimney. Sliding doors have been designed to prevent and reduce injuries during operation. The door lock is designed so that a person with reduced mobility can easily unlock it without requiring great dexterity, as it is a lever to push down. Access to the tank from the outside is secured with a permanent padlock. Adding an emergency safety lock will allow emergency services to enter if a person inside gets stuck and needs assistance.
Are there any specific regulations to comply with for installing your product in urban areas?
The installation of the dry toilet may be subject to local regulations. It is recommended to adhere to local sanitation and construction standards and regulations.
Can the ecological toilet be connected to a wastewater disposal system?
Connection to a traditional sewer system is possible, similar to a regular building. However, this connection must be drained during winter if temperatures are below freezing to prevent water expansion and pipe damage. Some equipment inside the cabin, such as the bowl, may vary to accommodate this type of traditional installation.
How does the aluminum floor contribute to the product's durability?
The aluminum floor contributes to durability by providing a sturdy and corrosion-resistant surface suitable for outdoor conditions.
What is the maximum capacity of the human waste tank before it needs to be emptied?
The maximum capacity of the 46-liter human waste tank determines the necessary emptying frequency. This capacity depends on individual specifications (solid vs. liquid waste), park-related activities, traffic flow, location, temperature, and sunlight hours. If you have citizen usage studies for the park in question, you could estimate the amount of waste to be collected and establish a maintenance schedule. We encourage you to regularly visit the facilities during your first year to validate user habits and create your own schedule.
What locking options does the cabin door offer?
The door is equipped with a lock to ensure users' privacy and security. Specific details on locking options can be provided.
How does the ecological toilet ensure users' privacy?
The dry toilet is designed with a door equipped with a lock to ensure users' privacy during use.
Is it possible to remotely monitor the status of the ecological toilet?
It is not possible to remotely manage the dry toilet; however, there is an indicator at the back of the cabin outside that indicates if the liquid tank needs to be emptied. The red gauge will appear when 80% of the tank is full. A service call to empty the tank will then be required.
What warranties are provided with the purchase of the permanent ecological toilet?
Warranties vary depending on the components that make up the cabin. Please refer to the warranties per item in our annexes.
How does your product compare to other ecological toilets on the market?
It is an efficient and durable solution, akin to a small steel construction that accommodates dry sanitation while significantly reducing odors. Compared to a regular system where waste accumulation becomes malodorous over time, the Nixiloo system dries solid matter via a filter basket and decants liquids into a separate tank for evaporation using a fan powered by a solar panel. These unique specifications distinguish our product from the competition.
Can the ecological toilet be used in environmentally sensitive environments?
Our waste recovery system is not subject to NSF/ANSI 41Q2r22 environmental standard as no solids or liquids leak into the soil. Waste management is thus controlled and compliant for more sensitive environments.
What are the dimensions of the cabin and the human waste tank?
Specific dimensions of the cabin and the human waste tank may vary depending on the model. Precise details can be provided in the product specifications.
What is the average energy consumption of the ecological toilet?
The average energy consumption depends on the use of the solar panel to power the ventilation. Specific data on energy consumption can be provided in the product's technical specifications.
How is the ventilation system designed to prevent breakdowns?
The ventilation system is designed to be robust and reliable, with a commercial-grade IP68 weatherproof rating. Additionally, its design allows for easy repair or replacement at minimal cost. Its battery system stores energy during the day, discharges it at night, and automatically recharges the next day in varying light conditions, whether it's brightness or full sunlight.
What is the procedure in case of malfunction of the solar ventilation system?
The procedure in case of ventilation system malfunction may vary. Generally, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer's technical support for assistance. However, the toilet will still be operational, although its evaporation function may be reduced.
Is the ecological toilet equipped with an alarm system in case of issues?
No alarm or monitoring system is installed.
How does the ecological toilet withstand vandalism?
The thickness of the walls and construction is designed to withstand manual impact vandalism without blunt objects. Reinforced panels are designed to resist human physical impacts. The locking system and door system are also commercially designed to reduce breakage. However, vandalism such as graffiti can be managed through cleaning, similar to a regular steel building.
What is the recommended periodicity for preventive maintenance of the ecological toilet?
The recommended periodicity for preventive maintenance may vary depending on usage and environmental conditions. Specific recommendations can be provided in the user manual. However, we recommend visual inspections during pickups and a complete cleaning once a year, with a more thorough inspection of components to ensure the proper functioning of the dry toilet.
Can the ecological toilet be installed on uneven surfaces?
All cabin installations start with the foundation, and while it's possible to install the cabin on uneven terrain, the foundation must always be level for proper installation. Access to the front door, mainly for people with reduced mobility, should also be leveled for easier wheelchair access.
How is the product delivered and installed on-site?
Please refer to the technical data sheets on transportation and delivery. The steel cabin is delivered in a custom-made wooden box, and the tank and its accessories are delivered separately on-site. There will also be separate packaging for solar panel equipment. For a typical cabin, you will have three boxes to install all of your shelters.
What are the estimated operating costs for the permanent ecological toilet?
Periodic maintenance costs and tank pumping fees will need to be provided by your local supplier or subcontractor in your area. However, costs are generally lower than a traditional dry toilet since the separation of solids and liquids allows for selective collection. This means that only a small portion of the pickup, solids, needs to be collected, while the liquid portion, if the geographical situation is optimal, should not need to be collected since evaporation through our ventilation system should occur gradually throughout the year. However, we recommend an annual pump-out combined with a visual inspection to ensure product longevity.
What are the warranty conditions related to solar components?
Warranty conditions for solar components are detailed more specifically on the solar component warranty sheet.
Can the ecological toilet be used in flood-prone areas?
The ability of the dry toilet to be used in flood-prone areas depends on the installation height. Additionally, if flooding submerges the aluminum floor, the joints below the bowl and the joints on the tank maintenance cap would fill with water. Therefore, tank pumping would be required when the floodwaters recede. Even with flooding, there would be no damage to the product.
What quality tests has your product undergone?
Quality tests include evaluations of robustness, weather resistance, ventilation performance, and other critical aspects. Resistance to snow and ice weight.
How can the ecological toilet be disposed of at the end of its life?
Since the cabin is entirely made of steel, it is 100% recyclable, as is the aluminum floor, the stainless steel tank, and the polyethylene bowl. Only the composite tank remains, a small portion of the whole, which you will need to dispose of appropriately according to local standards.
How does your ecological toilet contribute to the sustainability and efficiency of urban infrastructure?
The dry toilet contributes to urban sustainability by reducing water consumption, offering efficient waste management, and using renewable energy sources, which can alleviate the burden on existing urban infrastructure.