What is a Vault Toilet?
Have you ever heard of a vault toilet? Some might be familiar, others not so much. Personally, I have never heard of the term until now. You might be wondering, “What is it?” There is a lot to unravel with this type of toilet as you can typically find them outdoors in different public areas like parks and recreations.
Well, let’s dive in and see what is so special about this type of toilet!
Vault Toilets and Their Use
Vault toilets are toilets that are waterless and non-flushable. The term “vault” comes from the fact that all of the waste stores in an airtight container that is underground. The great thing about vault toilets is that their main use is on campground sights or anywhere that a rest area is, where water is not accessible.
You might see vault toilets at parks and recreational spots, campgrounds, and other public areas.
What are the Benefits of a Vault Toilet?
There are some advantages to this toilet. Obviously, there are little to no water expenses when it comes to using this type of toilet. In addition, environmental pollution is down this type of toilet as well.
Believe it or not, these types of toilets also meet all ADA regulations for toilets and user comfort. Anyone can use them. The next best thing about the vault toilet is that for the most part, they are odorless. You can hang around them and use them without having to worry about inhaling polluted air.
How Do These Toilets Work?
Vault toilets work by using a container or tank to collect all of the waste. These containers can collect a thousand gallons or even sometimes up to 13,000 gallons depending on the intended use of the vault toilet. I would say that the size of the container has a lot to do with the amount of use the vault toilet will be getting. This also differs depending on the area that they will be building it in.
The good thing about the container is that it is not visible. They bury it underground with a concrete slab on top of it to keep it stable.
The most important thing about a this type of toilet is pumping it out frequently enough. Depending on the size of the container determines how often it needs to be pumped out.
Additionally, the bad odors might be present on occasion. If it is windy, the air will carry the smell away and there will be no problem. If there isn’t any wind, it is more than likely that you will be able to smell the bad odors.
What Else Do I Need to Know About a Vault Toilet?
The great thing about vault toilets is that they are made many different ways with several different types of materials. From wooden frames to reinforced concrete, and everything in between.
In fact, one of the most commonly used types of material is cross-linked polyethylene because it is one of the most durable and will hold up the longest. Concrete is also one of the most used because it is also highly durable.
Additionally, the main reason why plastic is popular is because this makes the vault toilets portable.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, vault toilets are an upgrade from outhouses, but they have their similarities. You can find them around campgrounds, parks, and other public areas. They are convenient when access to public restrooms with accessible water are unavailable.
Now that you know a little bit about vault toilets, would you use them if the chance was given to you? If you find yourself to be outdoors more often than not, vault toilets might be a familiarity to you.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need any plumbing, drain cleaning, or excavation service. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.
