Incinerating Toilets and RV Living: The Practicalities and Realities

Many are drawn to the idea of living and sleeping in an RV with an incinerating toilet, powered by solar panels, without relying on hookups for electricity and water. This lifestyle is possible but comes with significant challenges and considerations. In this article, we will explore the feasibility and practicality of such a setup, while also examining the key components that make it a viable option.

Designated Free Camps in Australia

Australia offers a unique solution for those who wish to live in an RV with limited resources. There are around 4,500 designated free camps where you can park and live without hookups, provided you adhere to certain rules. These camps are typically managed within council districts, which enforce length of stay restrictions—ranging from one to seven nights. Additionally, there are usually other requirements, such as the RV needing to have an onboard toilet and a grey water tank. This system allows you to leave minimal environmental impact, as the only tracks left behind are those of your tires.

Key Components: Incinerating Toilets and Solar Panels

To truly “boondock” (live without hookups) in an RV, you need two essential components: an incinerating toilet and a reliable power source, such as solar panels. However, the cost and energy requirements of these components can be substantial.

Incinerating Toilets: Cost and Energy Considerations

While incinerating toilets are available, they come at a high cost, especially for those on a tight budget. These toilets operate on either propane or electricity, and they consume a significant amount of energy. Let’s examine the specifics of the TinyJohn Electric - Waterless Incinerator Toilet as an example.

Power Requirements: It requires 1800 watts of power, which necessitates a 12V DC inverter to run on the RV’s 12V electrical system. This translates to about 150 amps at 12V, which is a substantial drain on the RV’s battery. Usage: The toilet is designed to handle up to 30 “flushes” a day. However, the energy consumption is such that a single flush consumes about 1450 watt-hours, making it impractical for long-term living without a substantial solar setup.

To power this toilet, you would need an extensive and heavy battery bank, as well as solar panels capable of generating enough energy to recharge it. The off-the-cuff calculation suggests that for each solid waste flush, 1800 watts is needed for 50 minutes, and for liquid waste, 1200 watts for 25 minutes. This translates to a significant draw on your battery or solar panel system.

Solar Panels: A Game-Changer?

While solar panels can be a game-changer for RV living, they come with their own set of challenges. Firstly, the energy required to run an incinerating toilet is substantial, and you would need a very large and powerful solar panel system to meet these demands. For instance, 300 peak watts from semi-rigid panels, which are often limited in size and power output by the RV’s roof area.

The realistic calculation suggests that you would need at least 10 solar panels to produce the necessary power, assuming optimal conditions. Additionally, the space and weight of these panels and batteries need to be considered, as they can significantly reduce the load-bearing capacity of the RV and the available storage space.

Can It Be Done?

While the idea of living in an RV with an incinerating toilet and without hookups is appealing, it is not practical for most people. The high cost of the toilet, the significant energy consumption, and the requirement for a large and powerful solar panel system, all contribute to making this a long-term project for those with significant resources and expertise.

For some, incinerating toilets like those reviewed by MortonsonTheMove can provide a promising solution. However, careful planning and budgeting are essential to ensure that the RV can sustain this setup without compromising other important aspects, such as lighting, refrigeration, and daily comfort.

Conclusion

Living in an RV with an incinerating toilet and solar panels is a possibility, but it is not without its challenges. While designated free camps in Australia offer a potential solution for long-term living without hookups, the high cost and energy requirements of the necessary appliances make it a complex and costly endeavor. With careful planning and sufficient resources, it is possible to achieve this dream, but it requires a deep understanding of both the technical aspects and the practical challenges involved.