Choosing the wrong RV toilet causes more than just bad smells. It is a long-term drain on your wallet. Many RV buyers worry about their toilet. They fear high maintenance costs and disgusting disposal chores.
You might ask: Are composting toilets actually cheaper? They do not need expensive bags. You only buy low-cost composting materials. This sounds like a great deal.
On the other hand, dry flush toilets offer one-button convenience. They package waste instantly. However, these refills are expensive. Will the cost of these consumables ruin your travel budget?
Comparing costs without considering the context is meaningless. Below, we'll compare costs for two people living in an RV long-term:
Physiological habits: Approximately 1 bowel movement and 4-5 urinations per person per day.
Total frequency: Approximately 10-12 toilet uses per day for two people.
Composting Toilet Cost of Use
Many advertisements only mention the low cost of bedding material (coconut coir), but ignore other necessary expenses to keep the system running:
1. Cash Expenses (Explicit Costs)
- Bedding Materials ($15–$25/month): You need high-quality coconut coir or peat moss. Two people create more moisture than one person. This extra humidity makes you use much more material. Your costs will rise quickly.
- Electricity ($5–$10/month): The exhaust fan must run 24 hours a day. Each hour uses very little power. However, the total cost adds up over time. This constant draw also puts steady pressure on your RV battery.
- Cleaning Chemicals ($5/month): You occasionally need bio-enzymes or deodorizing sprays. These help stop smells from spreading inside the RV.
2. Maintenance and Depreciation (Implicit Costs)
- Replacement of wear parts: The exhaust fan is a consumable item. In the bumpy environment of an RV, the bearings are prone to damage, requiring replacement approximately once a year at a cost of $20–$40.
- Filter and Sealing Strips: If the sealing strips of a composting toilet age, odors will leak out, requiring regular replacement at your own expense.
Dry Flush Toilet Cost and Usage
This example uses the Modiwell dry flush toilet. The standard Modiwell dry flush toilet configuration includes two refill packs for 30 uses each and two sets of coagulant.
Modiwell consumable cost per use: Approximately $1.00/use (calculated per sealing cycle). Currently, it can be used with the Modiwell urine storage container. The LE-310, LE-330, and PT-830 dry flush toilets are compatible with the Modiwell urine storage container.
| Usage Mode | Monthly Uses (Est.) | Monthly Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. Full Packaging Mode | ≈ 300 times | ≈ $300 | Both liquid and solid waste go into the bag. Designed for ultimate convenience. |
| B. Urine Container + Bag Mode | ≈ 60 times | ≈ $60 |
Highly Recommended Use the urine container for liquid waste and the bag only for solid waste. Reduces costs by 80%. |
Composting Toilet vs. Modiwell Dry Flush Toilet (+Urine Container)
| Dimension | Composting Toilet | Modiwell Dry Flush (+Urine Container) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Consumable Cost |
~$30–$50 / month (Bedding ~$10–$20 + Maintenance/Depreciation ~$20–$30) |
~$60 / month (Based on ~60 uses × $1.00/cycle for bags + coagulant) |
| Cost Stability | Lower cash cost, but requires significant time and energy to manage. | Slightly higher cost, but maintenance-free and hassle-free. |
| Cleaning Frequency | Full system clean 1–2 times per month. | Disposable on-the-go (bag sealing). |
| Cleaning Experience | Must stir and adjust humidity; deal with waste, fermentation, and potential pests. | Fully sealed process; clean hands, no contact with waste. |
| Odor Risk | Medium-High (Relies on constant fan exhaust; may have earthy odors). | Zero Risk (Sealing technology provides physical isolation). |
| Learning Curve | High (Requires managing moisture levels). | Extremely Low (One-button operation). |
| Installation | Complex (Requires drilling for vents and electrical wiring). | Zero Installation (Ready to use out of the box). |
| Best For | Those who enjoy DIY and constant system management. | Those who value convenience, hygiene, and peace of mind. |
| Summary | Sacrifice experience to save money. | Pay a reasonable cost for a premium experience. |
Which type of traveler are you?
Those who choose a composting toilet:
- You are an extreme "money-saving expert" with excellent DIY skills.
- You don't mind regularly handling fermented waste and can tolerate the continuous operation of the exhaust fan.
- You sacrifice personal effort and time to achieve the lowest cash expenditure.
Those who choose a Modiwell dry flush toilet:
- You prioritize decency and hygiene during your travels and don't want "waste disposal" to spoil your travel mood.
- You are willing to spend less than $30 more per month (approximately the cost of two cups of coffee) for a zero-maintenance, odor-free, and easy-to-install experience.
- You pay a reasonable cost for greater freedom and comfort.
Summary and Recommendation:
Don't let a small monthly price difference stop you. Your travel time is precious. Do you want to spend it studying waste fermentation? Or would you rather spend it enjoying the beautiful scenery outside your window?
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