Adding a Urine Diverter + Improving Our DIY Composting RV Toilet

[@DuetJustusFam]

Hey guys! Hope this video was helpful 🙃 When it comes to venting the toilet, we do have a vent fan that's installed in the ceiling vent in our bathroom that we run before and after we do our "business" (not to share TMI). After we add the drying agent, there is absolutely no smell at all so we haven't found a need for extra venting. We've used the diverter successfully for a few weeks now and it really makes all the difference in our off grid bathroom experience! Have an awesome week and we'll see you on the next video 😎 👍🏼

[@NAldrighetti]

Thank you for this video. Everybody poops, and it's important to have a proper system to facilitate that function. Your demonstration is appreciated. :D

[@saeedafzal786]

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[@noturbone]

biodegradable trash bags greenpaperproducts.com/biodegradable-trash-bags.aspx?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3IT9wtq73AIVl4RpCh08uAd8EAAYASAAEgI6RfD_BwE

[@WatersandWilderness]

ZLOW The Gamer, I walked about 10 feet behind someone who was carrying his Curve to the dump station... the STENCH was OVERWHELMING. It's better if you separate the #1 and the #2. But, to each his own.

[@WatersandWilderness]

Duet Justus > Use a "square shaped bucket". They come in 4.5 gallons. Or purchase kitty litter in the square container - use the bucket for the #2 part of the toilet and use the kitty litter to cover it up. After you run out of kitty litter, then use less expensive wood shavings or saw dust or peet moss or hamster beding, etc. The bucket will bit if you have a square one. P.S. I'll be using 6 gallon bags for the #2 section of the toilet so the bucket stays clean.

[@oharikobees]

I watched the first 1 minute of your video and I've already hit likes when you said 'somebody's got to talk about it' with a smile.

[@ketolimones606]

Thank you so much for sharing! Me and my husband and small daughter are living in an rv while preparing to build our small home and have been wanting to do a composting Toilet to save water as we pretty much are off grid status as well. We use solar and a barrel water system to run water throughout but i want to save more money on cost of water. This video is perfect i appreciate your thorough explanation because no one does it. I love the idea of using the black water tank for just number one. I didn’t think of that! Thanks again! 👏🏻🤗

[@valv7664]

For Canadians: The Loo at Canadian Tire has liners available separately, as well as a liquid absorbing product you can add.

[@lass-inangeles7564]

This was a great video, and you explained it well with clear visuals. Well done! I had a foggy idea of how to install this but now its clear. Imagine how companies rip us off. This piece of molded plastic retails $100 whereas it costs pennies to make + minimal distribution costs. The Nature's Head toilet costs $1000 for the same thing plus a bucket with a rotating handle, jug, and seat included. You can use an empty laundry jug plus this diverter and cheap $2 bucket to make the same $1000 toilet which is better because you use plastic bags not a stirring paddle that needs washing out, gross. What I want to do is DIY build this diverter as well. Why not? How hard can it be? One can make a porcelain diverter same as plastic for an elegant look. I should go into business and sell them for $25 each! fyi - I heard that Peat Moss works better than pine shavings and smells sweeter. It is more absorbent and cheaper at Home Depot.

[@2001missmicha]

Thank you guys for taking the time to make a video about this! We're currently looking at swapping out our standard RV toilet system to a composting system and your two videos addressing this (this one and the one with your dad and Nate) were super helpful.

[@barbarametzler7534]

Thank you for explaining & demonstrating the urine diverter. So many others talk about installing (usually months after using their existing composting toilet), but your video is complete. Greatly appreciate your taking it to the next level.

[@DuetJustusFam]

You’re very welcome 😊👍🏼

[@northernrootsfarm9991]

Nice tip on the pet bedding!

[@Mordrayso]

Love your videos, they make me want to be young and adventurous again. A little tip for the future. If you use a cheap propane torch and heat the cemented pvd joints you can twist them and break the seal, then slide it right off. No need for a hacksaw. In a pinch an electric hair dryer will do, you just need to heat up the joint pretty well. Best of luck to you both. Be safe in your travels.

[@DuetJustusFam]

Dang! Where were you a few weeks ago? 😂 Great info and thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@twodogzdogue8710]

Great video! Thanks for sharing. Hope you are both doing well & still using your RV & travelling whenever you can . Cheers from Oz

[@tamarap387]

I have an off grid situation where I also have a 'humanure' type composting toilet and what I like to use to cover #2 is Cedar Mulch. Best smelling toilet EVER! (I also use a diverter). I just started watching a couple of your videos and I love your style!

[@Something2ShowYou]

I'd use the extra space underneath to store spare toothbrushes for visitors 😝

[@rorymcinerney5095]

That was one of the best comments I've seen in awhile!

[@tommuenster5939]

😂

[@sadiedesimone5558]

Nice tutorial. I don’t even have an rv and I found it interesting. You are a natural teacher.

[@peepla7]

I love how you talk down and dirty with out using any dirty terms.

[@Crogon]

Those screws will pull through the plastic eventually. Put some washers on the screws (usually 1/4 inch or so), then screw them in, and the washers will grab the plastic and actually cinch it up to the wood. ;) I have to mention that plastic isn't self supporting. It will (still) sag and crack eventually. You might take some sheet metal for ductwork and build a little ring to support the plastic as well. ;)

[@VANESSASVANLIFEJOURNEY]

*this is amazing I love this idea*

[@ginacardarella]

good video I would have liked to see how you diverted it from the inside -- new to this style of traveling and am still in the planning phase thanks

[@johncole9964]

Glad the composting toilet is working for you guys. One thing, I was always told is you should not mix ABS (black pipe) with PVC(white pipe), don't know if its that big of a deal but you might want to check. Last thing you want is it all to fall apart when you are pumping it out.

[@bobshaw4063]

You don't pump out a composting toilet .

[@uweschroeder]

You can mix ABS and PVC, you just have to use the right primer and cement.

[@lindapasaribu7066]

thanks for the information about compost toilet . I think every body should know how it works

[@robertmcjimpsey5541]

I live in the Bronx NY. Wishing that I could live off the grid like that as the rent is so high here. Maybe one day? Any way love what you are doing. Nice video.

[@jannmacdougall1448]

Look up stealth vanning...it is amazing..even in the city

[@kristiepowers2555]

Sell everything you own and just do it! I know it's more complicated than that but it's a matter of how bad you want it.

[@Hams30236]

Hi Michael, Two issues that I see. 1) black pipe is usually ABS not PVC. 2) you will need to put a valve on the end of that pipe so you don't end up covered with urine. Keep DIY, its the best learning tool.

[@lnxmachine]

I don't think you can glue ABS to PVC.

[@Mike-mo5rh]

Yes you can, both big box stores sell Oatey pvc to abs glue, also available on Amazon.. goo.gl/UMLZFk As others have said, remember to add some type of P-tarp, better yet use a HEPVO (smaller, inline trap that don't have the dry-out problem, again also on Amazon.. goo.gl/w2X2jZ

[@DuetJustusFam]

Thanks for sharing James! I never knew this and appreciate you sharing the knowledge 😎👍🏼

[@DLEnterprisesLLC]

Not for high pressure, say 45 lbs. or more but for this install it is fine. I WOULD HVAE USED PVC PRIMER!!!!!!

[@jmrichsonsr]

Great job. Informative and well produced. Thanks for sharing

[@r.d.ontheroad-1094]

Instead of ordering a bucket, you should have checked with Painters, for a bucket , Paint for commercial ;use is usually in a 3 or 3-1/2 gal bucket. Great job,,, glad you are leaning! Plus showing others --- the next time, take the caps off the faucet handles, and there is a screw that comes out. Good luck and safe travels. You will definitely learn a lot being on the road.

[@ryanhawkins1235]

Have you considered or have the room to use an elongated toilet seat instead? It has a longer seat that might help if you have the room for it.

[@summersands8105]

Free urine diverter - 1 gallon plastic milk jug with the bottom cut off. Attach a hose or put it directly into the tube to take the urine away. You can cut the bottom in a way to flange it out so you can attach it to the box.

[@Crappie_Hunter_Seeker]

What do you do with the used Toilet Tissue?

[@Lovelace069]

Haven't finished but soon as you started.....wham a whole sweater,ponytail and shoulder right in the way!

[@lisakuehn6436]

Thanks. So glad you shared.

[@samscholz4443]

What is the brand of the urine diverter used? The link is not sending me to what you used. Thanks :)

[@smittysautoinc6758]

Hey, great subject and great job I love your ideas. Just a thought regarding the bag in the bucket. what if you used a bucket small enough to accept supermarket plastic bags...they are free. living in Florida (roach capital of the world),we use this for household garbage and empty it often. Anyway, great job and thank you for the insight.

[@jeffgerbing1230]

Great job on sharing a topic no one wants to cover :)

[@SaintTrinianz]

Ah, this urine diverter is not on Ebay, is there an alternate link?

[@Windkisssed]

There has been mention of a fan system... but I’d also like to suggest the urine receptacle have a neck on it. Urine becomes odorous when it’s exposed to air. If you have a mostly closed container, you could decrease that effect. I’ve also seen the system with a ballcock at bottom of the diverter so the receptacle can be a closed system. Just do your business and then open the valve - let it pour out, them close it. You do great DIYs! Very knowledgeable and handy to have around!!! Lauri

[@DuetJustusFam]

Thanks Laurie! Great info here and thanks for sharing 🙂

[@AlabamaConstitutionalCrusader]

If you add a little vinegar and dawn you will never smell the urine it stops souring and neutralizes the ammonia ✌️

[@toddramsay977]

The alcohol is good, you can get the purple PVC primer, it also helps in drying. Are you attaching a gate? I guess I need to watch the rest to see if you use one. LOL

[@kellierebkowec5483]

Hi I am a new sub from Ontario Canada and hopefully will be in my own converted van doing the same type of living as yourself. This video was really a good one when I recently looked online for a composting toilet and found the outrageous price of $900+ . This will definetly come in handy for me. Regarding the composting bags for your #2pail. I have purchased kitchen sized bags at the dollar store so I am sure that if you look there you may be surprized thanks again, and Happy Trails

[@DuetJustusFam]

Thank you Kellie! Wishing you all the best on your future adventures 😎👍🏼

[@TJHutchExotics]

I love your simple design. Composting toilets are SO expensive. Thanks for sharing

[@georgenelson8917]

Use a PAPER BAGS to line no 2 bucket , I use this system for 30 yrs . As material is dry it works .

[@MrTubeman123456]

Great video I've seen a few of the other posts on the toilet like your toilet much better than the 1000 dollar comercial made toilets for sale

[@imnotsure8250]

I think oil funnel will be sufficient, thanks for the inspiration

[@hungpham]

This is so great. Thank you for sharing about the urine diverter. I've been looking not sure of such a thing existed. A question: instead of special ordering the 3.5 g bucket do you think a rectangular or square office trash can will work? I think the straight edge may fit better with that diverter side by side.

[@judycee9263]

Find someone with a cat and get an empty kitty litter container. They are rectangular and would work well for #2.

[@lindawolffkashmir2768]

@@judycee9263 You could also consider using a cat litter jug for #1. They can hold quite a bit, and have a lid that can be screwed on tightly for transport to a place to discard it without splashing.

[@judycee9263]

@@lindawolffkashmir2768 Oops, that's what I meant to say. Must have been one of my stressed and tired moments. I have 4 of these jugs ready to go already.

[@myboymarcus4145]

we use a plastic dustpan. works just as good if not gooder

[@DuetJustusFam]

Interesting... great idea!

[@samfine9416]

My Boy Marcus what a brilliant idea!!!

[@ys621]

I guess this is a basic question, but where are you dumping it all when you get rid of it? Somewhere for this sort of thing on a campsite? What about if you're in a city?

[@mr.klutchrednose2700]

I THOUGHT I SEEN SOME KIND OF LAINCHER IN THE BACK OF HIS RV 🤔😑🤔😑 4 WHEN HE'S N THE CITY

[@scottharra5193]

I was thinking you might have been able to put the urine diverter a bit more forward had you notched the framework of the box. It might have gained you an inch or so. I very much enjoy you videos. We recently purchased a 1996 Calista Cove by Carriage Class C. It is in great shape physically, just needs updating. We will be incorporating many of your ideas.

[@DuetJustusFam]

That’s a great point, Scott. So far with the way we’ve installed it, we’ve had no issues whatsoever. It’s been a great addition that’s made out toilet so much more comfortable to use. We’re so glad to hear our videos will help out and we’re wishing you all the best on your future project 😊👍🏼

[@craigkdillon]

can you use shredded newspaper for composting?

[@jeremyvelkoff1487]

you need a shut off valve....... how will you get that cap off and the hose on with liquid in the tank?

[@chrismainman]

Where do you throw away the toilet paper after use?

[@WatersandWilderness]

Use a "square shaped bucket". They come in 4.5 gallons. Or purchase kitty litter in the square container - use the bucket for the #2 part of the toilet and use the kitty litter to cover it up. After you run out of kitty litter, then use less expensive wood shavings or saw dust or peet moss or hamster beding, etc. The bucket will bit if you have a square one.

[@deborahbierer9660]

Where does the toilet paper go?

[@patsysiep7478]

To answer your request for compostable toilet bags, I recently found Green Elephant Portable Toilet Replacement bags 100% biodegradable Compostable bags 8 gal capacity. 15 large bags for $10 on Amazon. A little pricey but the way you have your system working, they could last a good long time. I plan to use them to avoid using my black tank for weekend trips.

[@klouism1]

Good job!

[@Mihaela71100]

Just a tip for you. Instead of changing the bucket with a smaller one, you could have made the box taller and keep the the regular buket.

[@betsy5749]

Great video. I'm trying to come up with a "no-build" diy compost toilet for my off grid cabin and using a toy chest would really help. Where did you get the one you used? What's it made of? Did you have to reinforce it so adults could sit on it?

[@DavidSmith-vo3nd]

Thank you that is a great idea!!

[@Therapistinthewhitehouse]

How about adding a couple of urinal cakes to the urine diverter? If you’d heated the tube of the diverter and put a gentle curve in it you could’ve moved it further forward and made wiping a tad easier.

[@bioberni2299]

hi guy composting bags for composting "BioBags " made from corn starch quicky biodegradable !

[@ernaverheijdt2925]

Thanks . clear and perfect for me too.

[@gloriabain4762]

Great video,

[@Ferretlover64]

I have a question... is your grey water tank drain on the other side of the RV, or the same side as the black tank drain?? It seemed like you indicated the other side of the RV when talking about draining...and I was just curious. I am going to go the route you two did and buy a used class C.... and put my self through endless hours of asking myself why did I do this to myself..lol... even with the water damage you had to repair on the rig, it seemed to be doable, albeit a pain in the patootie. I was inspired by your journey of remodeling and the final results. I AM ABSOLUTELY BLOWN AWAY. You both are so personable and articulate... it made binge-watching all of the videos an enjoyable experience. :) Thank you for such detailed and understandable videos as you remodeled your Harvey.... I am sure there were times during the entire process you just wanted to do it without having the added aggravation of setting up the camera..so THANK YOU for that !!

[@lilybrobergstrong5585]

Just tried your urine diverter link and its not working! Do you have an update? Thanks!

[@basilisanewitt3558]

Where did you get your urine diverter?

[@Lovelace069]

Is there a 12v fan?

[@lanikohler]

Oh gosh just say urinate or poop, we can handle it!

[@Therapistinthewhitehouse]

If you handle it make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. 😉

[@theredroadeast723]

Great video. Where did you get the urine diverter?

[@NYC_VanLife]

link doesn't work anymore. annoying

[@rcbourlock1149]

Thank you!

[@robertglen2962]

Do you have any venting system in place in keep the smell down? I know other campers that use composting systems and they put fans in the area to keep the smell to a minimum. Keep up the good work!

[@DuetJustusFam]

We just an overhead vent fan. No extra venting has been necessary.

[@fallingspark2258]

If it smells, then something is wrong! Typically cuz there isn't enough composting material to absorb any liquid (peat moss, sawdust, etc)

[@wyldeman]

I can't seem to find one for an elongated seat?

[@allaboutmycats454]

How do you keep the smell from the urine down?

[@elainegoad2111]

Put vinegar in the urine container and empty container often.

[@kimclark3931]

@@elainegoad2111 Be sure NOT to add Clorox or other chlorine cleaners to the urine container. It will create chlorine gas, which was used as a weapon in WWI.

[@sandrafarley2966]

Cabalas camping gear would have the bags for composting toilets.

[@sheepseven7588]

THANK YOU SO MUCH AND YOU SHOULD TALK MORE ABOUT IT

[@kennyparrish3156]

Use the P.V.C. Primer ! ❤

[@ankersman]

If you had a cassette type it would be way less complicated. Just take out cassette and put in place 2 and half litre container lined with compostable bag. Probably best in conjunction with urinal or urine diverter. Cover the doings in peat. When filled take out the bag and secure the top. Now dispose of in usual manner

[@carolynrose753]

Add a wire saw to your tool kit, really handy for tight spots

[@ae4xo]

so you don't have a fan venting the bucket out?

[@DuetJustusFam]

An overhead vent fan is all we have. We’ve not found a need for extra venting. Hope this helps!

[@gracecallowayable]

Awesome!!!👠🚌👠

[@BillAndersonNS]

This is the ONLY video I have ever watched with the words "Urine Diverter" in the title lol

[@DuetJustusFam]

Haha 😂 It’s a dirty job but someone’s gotta do it 👍🏼

[@joannjackson5910]

Thanks for the video cuz I was really having trouble just getting my dain opened, now I will have to expand it out a little more thanks to your video I can now do that. Thanks and never enough thanks for the video.

[@Vanlifecrisis]

How big of a hole is it at the bottom?

[@peepla7]

I understand black water but what's gray water exactly?

[@peepla7]

Our Little Home thank you!!!

[@markheintz1878]

@people Grey water is water from showers, sinks, cooking, basically just water with a little soap or similar things added.

[@peepla7]

@@markheintz1878 hahaha peepla....not people....says thank you!

[@markheintz1878]

@@peepla7 I apologize for the spelling error, I typed your name and spellcheck must have auto corrected it and I didnt notice it. Anyway, glad my answer helped you out. Have a great weekend.

[@clintstinytrailerconversio5560]

Link to Urine Diverter doesn't work

[@unclepeteknows6217]

Why separate the urine from the poop? Why not let both go into the same bucket? Please advise.

[@m.r.4798]

Because mixing solids and liquids will create raw sewage and an unbearable stench. Dry solids (aka poop) barely smells, especially if covered up with a medium such as pine shavings or coconut coir. Fresh pee doesn’t smell much either, just empty the bottle every 2 days latest.

[@gildaparrish6551]

Can’t find the urine diverter

[@lapearl521]

What do you use for a mic for your videos? Sounds really good inside and out, that's why I'm asking :) Just found your videos, you guys are great!

[@DuetJustusFam]

Thank you and welcome 🙏🏼 We use a cheap lapel mic that we found on amazon. We’ve been very happy with 👍🏼😎

[@americanflika1311]

I think an elongated toilet seat and hole might make it easier.

[@lawrenceconstantine7735]

You have to let us know how well the diverter works with the run's!!!!!!

[@DuetJustusFam]

Haha no update yet. We eat a very clean diet so it may be a while 😂

[@FreedomForJoe]

Thanks for the great video! I was curious if you compared the diverter you bought to the Kildwick Classic (www.kildwick.com/product/klassic-urine-separator-diverter/) or the Seperate Privy (www.separett-usa-orders.com/collections/privy-outhouse-and-camping-toilets/products/privy-501-w-folding-seat). I haven't been able to find comparisons and would really appreciate your feedback. Anything else you would change about the system? Thanks for your time.

[@Trixie1294]

Awesome...

[@theroadlessfrazzled9670]

I'm curious... rather than spend money on the 3.5 gallon bucket, why not cut a 5 gallon bucket the height you needed?

[@Mike-mo5rh]

I would cut the 5gal only in the area of the diverter and allow the line to exit the bucket also to still allow the use of the liner.

[@DuetJustusFam]

Hey there. It was mainly because we wanted the lid we have for our 5 gallon bucket to be universal.

[@DuetJustusFam]

This is a good idea too!

[@BeckyBlanton]

The link to the urine diverter does NOT go to the diverter, just to ebay.

[@gracecallowayable]

Thank you so much!!!👠🚌👠

[@timklassen421]

thankyou just subbed

[@leroygrayjr.2957]

Yes !

[@captsam54]

Where's your gate valve?

[@jimmyberg5265]

Urine diverter link does not work

[@garrettwood4665]

Say hi to the crazy guy on the ebike lol

[@DuetJustusFam]

Haha. Thanks again for all that stuff Garrett! Safe travels 😎

[@johnsaye1959]

Great idea. Looks a lot easier than dumping a one gallon jug of piss every day.

[@lenekapilarski364]

Horse bedding from Tracor Supply is larger and cheaper.

[@kimberleedady8361]

What do you do with you bags of poo? Are you stationary and actually composting? Or are you just throwing them in the trash when full? Which is not actually composting. That just making it someone else’s problem.

[@janina8559]

If U guys are gonna have 2 buckets under there y not jus have 2 seats? And a little bowl and scoop for the second seat?sounds cheaper n easier and ifya gotta do both jus scoot lol

[@jannmacdougall1448]

Have you tried using two seats, I am interested in how that works out?

[@sophialewis5642]

I saw 3 gallon compost bags at Home Depot. $14 for 100, Thrive shows they have them

[@MrTubeman123456]

So when you're not using it as a toilet it's a toy chest for your children kidding I'm going to build my own toilet without the diverter 1 and 2 will be in a ton of pine then u put the lid on it like a cat pan with a lid on it if necessary il put a clothes pin on my nose 8 gal trash bag available everywhere take it out and dispose of 5gal bucket no diverter no pee bucket fans hoses just a frame elongated seat lid for 5 gal bucket plus it will be about 20 inches high it will be an award winner I like simple I'm 63 I have learned that make stuff simple you don't want to turn this into a space ship. I think I commented on your former video which was good I believe anyway enough said God bless you and yours and have fun and smell the roses.