Installed a few composting toilets over the years, and I've seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. Honestly, when they're set up right and maintained properly, they're pretty decent—odorless and straightforward. But here's the catch: maintenance is key. If you're someone who tends to procrastinate or skip routine upkeep, things can get messy (and smelly) fast.
Had a client who swore by theirs for years, but they were meticulous about emptying and turning the compost regularly. Another family I worked with let things slide a bit, and let's just say their bathroom wasn't exactly guest-friendly after a while...
Bottom line: if you're committed to regular maintenance and don't mind getting hands-on occasionally, composting toilets can be great. But if you're looking for something you can install and forget about, stick with your low-flow fixtures and maybe look into greywater recycling instead.
Haha, your post made me chuckle—I've definitely seen (and smelled) what happens when folks slack on compost toilet upkeep. Had one client who proudly showed off his setup, but when I opened the lid... let's just say it was less compost and more science experiment. Totally agree though, with a bit of elbow grease and consistency, these systems can be pretty impressive. Good on you for pointing out the reality check!
I've seen compost toilets done right, but honestly they're not for everyone. Maintenance aside, there's still the issue of guest comfort and convenience. Ever had visitors freak out when you explain how it works? I mean, sustainable plumbing is great, but maybe greywater recycling or low-flow fixtures are easier wins for most people... less hassle and fewer awkward conversations.
You're spot on about guest comfort—I've had similar experiences explaining our greywater system. People can be hesitant at first, but once they see it's safe and sanitary, they usually come around. Small steps like low-flow fixtures definitely make sustainability more approachable for most households.
Totally agree on low-flow fixtures—huge impact with minimal hassle. A couple other things I've noticed:
- Tankless water heaters save energy and space, but upfront costs can be steep.
- Rainwater harvesting systems are great, though maintenance can be tricky depending on your climate.
Definitely worth weighing pros and cons carefully...
