Sancor Envirolet VF Composting Toilet System
Authors:
The Sancor system consists of at minimum a vacuum flush toilet, a vacuum pump (includes a mascerator), and a composting unit. Further, vegetables and other compostables are not supposed to be added. Since the system uses a vacuum flush, gravity is not required and the composters can be placed at an elevation higher than the toilet if need be. The vacuum action will likely ensure contents are well flushed. A typical single family home system including the toilets will cost $4000.
Contents
System Components
Toilet
Water sources can be non potable, and must be 4 gpm or 15.1 L/min. Vacuum toilets use 0.2 L per flush. Electrical is 120VAC. Pedal type toilets are standard but other versions are available.
Vacuum Pump
One vacuum pump can work for an entire system (8 amps draw for 30 seconds each flush). The vacuum pump supports a distance of up to 50 ft between toilets and composting units.
Composting Units (750 model)
25Wx33Lx28.5H inches (per unit, 2 units typically needed for anything beyond a single family home).
Fans - 2 in each composting unit, 4 total, run continuously, 0.4 amps each, 0.16 amps total. 97 CFM per unit, 194 CFM total. There is potentially need for an assist fan on both the vents of the composting units.
Heaters - 1 in each composting unit, 2 total, have thermostat to maintain temp, 500 W max per unit, 1000 W max total, run ~12% of the time if incoming air is ambient
If two composting units are operated then each composting tank is run continuously with each flush being split between the two tanks. This reduces any need for someone to switch valves periodically. Composting tanks can stack vertically to reduce footprint. The internal design is intended to only allow ready compost down into the bottom tray where the contents can be removed.
Manufactured in Oshawa, ON, Sancor Industries, 1-800-387-5126
Maintenance
Compost has to be removed periodically (approximately once every 6 months). The compost can be applied to the garden outside. The Sancor systems require an amendment to provide bulking agents and bacteria to be added daily. The amendment is proprietary and must be continually purchased and shipped from the manufacturer. 1/4 cup of amendment is recommended per person per day, but addition can be reduced when the system is not in use or in reduced use. No technical support available from the manufacturer if there are troubles in using outside amendments. The amendment costs ~$120 per year.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Flies
Flies have been reported with the Sancor system that was installed at the Bertchi School in Seattle, WA. Flies are primarily combated with physical barriers (e.g. screens). Therefore, the composter should be placed in an isolated room, where ventilation ports are screened to keep flies from entering.
Regulations
Sancor offers vacuum toilets that meet ADA compliance. All Sancor systems are approved by the National Sanitation Foundation under standard 41. The Sancor model has been installed in at least one building to pass living building challenge standards (Bertchi School, Seattle, WA).
