The main components of a composting toilet are:

• A composting chamber connected to one or more dry toilets

• An exhaust system (often fan-forced) to remove odors, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and the by-products of aerobic decomposition

• A means of ventilation to provide oxygen (aeration) for the aerobic organisms in the compost vault

• A means of draining and managing excess liquid and leachate

• Process controls, such as mixers (or access doors to the composting materials for manual mixing) and/or heaters to optimize the composting process

• An access mechanism for removal of the end product

(Figure 2: Composting Toilet Components, Interior Residential)

(Figure 3: Composting Toilet Components, Exterior Residential)