Narrowboat Toilet: A Guide to Choosing and Maintaining Your On-Board Sanitation System

Narrowboats are a popular way to explore the UK’s vast network of canals and waterways. These boats offer a unique way to travel and experience the country’s beauty from a different perspective. However, one aspect of narrowboat life that can be a concern for many is the toilet facilities.

Unlike traditional homes, narrowboats are not connected to a sewage system and require an onboard toilet. This can be a challenge for those who are not familiar with the intricacies of narrowboat toilets. While some may assume that using a narrowboat toilet is similar to using a regular toilet, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about narrowboat toilets, including how they work, how to maintain them, and tips for using them effectively.

Types of Narrowboat Toilets

Cassette Toilets

Cassette toilets are a popular choice among narrowboat owners. They are portable and easy to use, making them ideal for those who prefer a low-maintenance option. Cassette toilets have a removable waste tank that can be easily emptied at designated disposal points. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of narrowboat toilets.

Composting Toilets

Composting toilets are an eco-friendly option for narrowboat owners. They use natural processes to break down waste into compost, which can then be used as fertilizer. Composting toilets require little water and produce no odors, making them a popular choice for those who prioritize sustainability and convenience. However, they can be more expensive than other types of narrowboat toilets.

Pump-Out Toilets

Pump-out toilets are a common choice for larger narrowboats with more permanent moorings. They require a holding tank and a pump-out system, which can be more expensive to install and maintain. However, pump-out toilets are convenient for those who do not want to regularly empty a waste tank. They also require less maintenance than cassette toilets.

Incinerating Toilets

Incinerating toilets use heat to burn waste into ash, which can then be safely disposed of. They are a relatively new option for narrowboat owners and are still relatively expensive. However, they are a low-maintenance option that requires no water or chemicals. Incinerating toilets are also odorless and produce minimal waste, making them a popular choice for those who prioritize convenience and cleanliness.

In summary, narrowboat owners have several options when it comes to choosing a toilet. Cassette toilets are portable and inexpensive, while composting toilets are eco-friendly and low-maintenance. Pump-out toilets are convenient for those with permanent moorings, and incinerating toilets are a new, innovative option for those who prioritize convenience and cleanliness. Ultimately, the choice of toilet will depend on individual preferences and needs.

Choosing the Right Toilet

When it comes to choosing a toilet for your narrowboat, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you need to decide on the type of toilet you want. There are several types available, including:

• Cassette toilets
• Pump-out toilets
• Composting toilets
• Portable toilets

Each type of toilet has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Budget is also an important consideration when choosing a narrowboat toilet. Cassette toilets tend to be the cheapest option, while pump-out toilets are typically the most expensive. Composting toilets can also be pricey, but they offer a more eco-friendly option.

Price isn’t the only factor to consider, however. You also need to think about the capacity of the toilet, as well as its weight, length, width, and height. These factors will all affect how well the toilet fits in your narrowboat and how easy it is to use.

If you’re looking for the cheapest option, a portable toilet may be your best bet. These toilets are lightweight and easy to move around, but they do require frequent emptying. On the other end of the spectrum, pump-out toilets offer the convenience of not having to empty the tank yourself, but they can be heavy and may require professional installation.

Ultimately, the right toilet for your narrowboat will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By considering factors such as type, budget, and size, you can choose a toilet that will work well for you and your narrowboat.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing and maintaining a narrowboat toilet can be a straightforward process if done correctly. The first step is to choose the right type of toilet for your narrowboat. There are two main types of toilets available for narrowboats: cassette toilets and pump-out toilets. Cassette toilets are more affordable and easier to install, while pump-out toilets require a service point and a plumbing system.

To install a cassette toilet, you need to ensure that the toilet is securely fixed to the floor and that the waste pipe is connected to the cassette. It is also essential to ensure that the toilet is correctly sealed to prevent any leaks. It is recommended to use a professional plumber to install the toilet to ensure that it is done correctly.

For pump-out toilets, you need to have a service point nearby to dispose of the waste. The plumbing system should be installed by a professional plumber to ensure that it meets the necessary regulations.

Maintaining a narrowboat toilet is crucial to ensure that it works correctly and lasts for a long time. For cassette toilets, you need to regularly empty and clean the cassette. It is also recommended to use a toilet additive to break down the waste and prevent any odours.

For pump-out toilets, it is essential to regularly service the system to ensure that it is working correctly. You should also use a toilet additive to prevent any odours and ensure that the waste is broken down correctly.

In summary, installing and maintaining a narrowboat toilet requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Choosing the right type of toilet and using a professional plumber for installation is essential. Regular maintenance and the use of toilet additives can help to ensure that the toilet works correctly and lasts for a long time.

Emptying and Cleaning

Emptying and cleaning the narrowboat toilet is an essential task that needs to be done regularly to ensure it functions correctly and remains hygienic. There are different options for emptying the waste, and the method used will depend on the facilities available at the marina or waterway.

Elsan Point

Many marinas have an Elsan point, which is a designated area for emptying the narrowboat toilet waste. It is a simple process that involves connecting the hose from the Elsan point to the waste outlet on the boat. The waste is then emptied into the Elsan point, which is connected to the sewage system.

Pump-out

Another option is to use a pump-out service, which is available at some marinas. This involves a boat coming to the narrowboat and pumping out the waste from the onboard waste tank. The waste is then taken to a sewage treatment plant.

Waste Tank

If the narrowboat has a waste tank, it will need to be emptied regularly. The frequency will depend on the size of the tank and the number of people using the toilet. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for emptying the tank to prevent damage to the system.

Cleaning

Cleaning the narrowboat toilet is just as important as emptying it. It is recommended to use a dedicated toilet cleaner that is safe for use in marine environments. The cleaner should be used regularly to prevent the build-up of limescale and other deposits.

Liquids and Solids

It is important to separate liquids and solids in the narrowboat toilet to prevent blockages and odours. Some narrowboat toilets have a separate tank for liquids, which can be emptied more frequently than the waste tank.

Smell and Odours

To prevent smells and odours, it is recommended to use a deodoriser in the toilet bowl. It is also essential to keep the toilet clean and empty the waste tank regularly. If there is a persistent smell, it may be a sign of a problem with the system, and a professional should be consulted.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Narrowboat toilets come with both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most important ones to consider:

Advantages

• Convenience: Having a toilet on board a narrowboat can be very convenient, especially when cruising for extended periods of time. It eliminates the need to find public restrooms or marinas with toilet facilities.
• Privacy: A narrowboat toilet provides privacy, which can be especially important for families or groups of friends who are sharing a boat.
• Independence: Having a toilet on board means that boaters can be more independent and not have to rely on external facilities.
• Eco-friendly: Some narrowboat toilets are designed to be eco-friendly, using minimal water and producing compost that can be used as fertilizer.

Disadvantages

• Maintenance: Narrowboat toilets require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. This can be time-consuming and costly.
• Odours: If not maintained properly, narrowboat toilets can produce unpleasant odours that can be difficult to eliminate.
• Limited capacity: Most narrowboat toilets have limited holding tank capacity, which means that they need to be emptied frequently. This can be inconvenient and may require boaters to find pump-out facilities.
• Environmental impact: Some narrowboat toilets can have a negative impact on the environment if not used properly. For example, if waste is discharged into the waterways, it can contribute to pollution.

Overall, narrowboat toilets can be a convenient and practical solution for boaters, but they do require careful consideration and maintenance to ensure that they function properly and do not have a negative impact on the environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right toilet for a narrowboat is an important decision for any cruiser. The toilet should be compact, comfortable, and efficient, especially during the winter months.

When considering the best toilet for a narrowboat, there are several factors to keep in mind, including the size of the bathroom, the number of people on board, and the type of canal boat being used.

Vitreous china toilets are a popular choice among narrowboat owners due to their durability and ease of cleaning. However, some cruisers prefer sawdust toilets, which are more eco-friendly and require less water.

The TOTO Aquia Dual Flush toilet is an excellent choice for narrowboat owners who value efficiency and comfort. Its elongated bowl and comfort height make it a great option for families of four or those who require a little extra legroom.

Other popular options include the American Standard Right Height toilet and the Kohler Compact toilet. These two-piece toilets are easy to install and maintain, making them a great choice for those who are new to narrowboating.

Overall, choosing the right toilet for a narrowboat is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By considering the size of the bathroom, the number of people on board, and the type of canal boat being used, narrowboat owners can find a toilet that is both comfortable and efficient.