Dry Flush Vs. Incinerating Toilets

With approximately 3.4 billion people worldwide living in conditions without access to clean sanitation services, the introduction of sustainable toilet options is essential. Investing in waterless toilet systems creates a brighter, more sustainable future.

If you live off-grid or are embarking on adventures away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a key factor to think about is buying a sustainable toilet solution. The different types of toilets to consider include dry flush and incinerating models.

This guide outlines the differences between dry flush and incinerating toilets, helping you make an informed decision that suits your specific circumstances.

What Is a Dry Flush System?

Although Dry Flush toilets are the better and more convenient option compared to composting toilets, a dry flush system is similar in that it collects waste through a liner or bag. The liner or bag systems seal the waste for easy disposal and do not require water for operation. Dry flush also does not require incineration to dispose of waste.

Particularly if you are living off-grid or going on a camping trip, dry flush systems are lightweight, portable and easy to take with you. They are convenient, boasting battery operation and DC Power Cord car adapter options, with minimal electricity for a mechanical flush and a sealing structure that keeps odors airtight.

What Is an Incinerating Toilet?

Like a dry flush system, incinerating toilets do not need water to work and use heat to burn waste. They burn the waste until it turns to ash, using either propane, natural gas or electricity as an energy source. An incinerating toilet also has an exhaust vent to manage the smell of waste or smoke.

Overall, incinerating toilets are reasonably easy to maintain, environmentally friendly and compact, which is ideal for traveling and living off-grid. It is possible to repurpose the ash as fertilizer.

Similarities and Differences Between Dry Flush and Incinerating Toilet Systems

Although there are several similarities between dry flush and incinerating toilets, and both options are preferable for off-grid living and adventures, there are some differences to consider. Here’s how they compare and contrast in different areas:

• Cost considerations: An incinerating toilet typically has a higher up-front cost than a dry flush system. Dry Flush also wins in the long-term maintenance costs category, as it doesn’t require propane or gas costs.
• Power operation: Laveo Dry flush systems can be battery-operated with minimal electricity use, whereas incinerating toilets require natural gas, electricity or propane.
• Maintenance requirements: Incinerating toilets are easy to maintain with ash disposal after use. Maintenance for dry flushing systems is also straightforward, involving the regular replacement of cartridges, liners or bags to capture human waste.
• Odor management: Although neither toilet type is 100% odor-free, incinerating and dry flush systems have excellent odor control. The power source of incinerating toilets burns the human waste, and the liners or bags offer effective odor control for dry flush systems.
• Space and portability: Incinerating and dry flush systems are portable and feature a compact design, making them suitable for use in small spaces.
• Cycle time frames: A dry flush system is usable immediately after another person has finished. With incinerating toilets, the cycle time ranges anywhere between 30 minutes and two hours. For this reason, dry flush systems are more convenient.
• Water consumption: Approximately 29 gallons of water are used in U.S. households every day. Both toilet systems are water-free, making them more environmentally friendly than traditional residential toilets.

What Are the Cons of Incinerating Toilets?

Incinerating toilets offer several benefits for off-grid living and traveling, including practical odor management and zero water consumption. That being said, there are drawbacks to consider before making a choice. Below are the disadvantages of incinerating toilets to be aware of:

Incinerating Power Options

Compared to dry flush systems, incinerating toilets offer less flexibility and portability. Dry flush systems are completely portable and can be moved anywhere during your travels. However, incinerating toilets require installation by plugging into an electrical or fuel source, as well as an exhaust vent system.

Frequent Maintenance

Because incinerating toilets rely on a power source, it’s essential to regularly inspect the fuel lines and power connections to ensure their proper functioning. Incinerating toilets also require more frequent cleaning compared to dry flush systems, particularly when burning human waste into ash.

Dependency on Energy

Regarding power options, reliance on electrical power or fuel supplies can prove frustrating during power outages. If there is no power or fuel supply, the toilet would be unusable. Dry flush systems are operable without a continuous power or fuel source and limit disruptions, which is especially beneficial if you are traveling without easy electricity access.

Higher Up-Front and Ongoing Costs

Overall, incinerating toilets are more expensive up front than dry flush systems and similar models. Additionally, ongoing energy costs are another consideration. If you travel with an incinerating toilet, your energy costs may vary depending on your location. Per cycle, the approximate amount of energy used for electric-powered toilets is between 1.5 and 2 kilowatt-hours (kWh).

Dry Flush vs. Incinerating Toilet: Which Is Best?

While both toilet systems offer sustainable and practical benefits, dry flush systems are the superior choice for an effective off-grid living solution. Their portability makes them a more user-friendly option for traveling from one location to another, requiring less installation and offering more convenience. The dry flush system is also more energy-efficient, as it does not rely on a constant energy source.

Whether you are traveling by boat or a recreational vehicle, dry flush systems provide a self-contained setup with an ideal balance of accessibility and simplicity. If you are on the move and need a toilet without the hassle of installation or venting, dry flush systems are a flexible solution.