Winterizing Flushing Units

Photo courtesy François Grondin, GN Carriers Limited

Fresh flush and recirculating toilets face the same cold-weather challenges as conventional portable restrooms, like frozen tank water. There is also the added challenge of preventing frozen water lines and valves. Once the temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare units for continued use or put them away for the winter. Both actions require winterization.

The methods used for winterizing sinks, tanks, and toilets differ among PROs. A good practice is to check with your portable restroom manufacturer for suggestions and follow standard guidelines for your climate. Use these tips to protect your portable flushing toilets this winter.

When to Winterize Flushing Units

If your flushing units aren’t winterized when temperatures drop below freezing, problems occur. Some regions have temperatures that fluctuate, from comfortable to freezing, overnight. Others drop to freezing and remain there for months.

In areas with moderate temperatures, you can watch the weather and act proactively (and save yourself money) by adding de-icing solutions only during freezing weather. However, if you reside in a colder climate, these solutions can help your equipment stay functional during the ups and downs of autumn. But once the warm temperatures are gone until spring, it’s time to winterize your flushing units and sinks.

Winterization Methods

Freezing temperatures will turn your waste and holding tank water into ice and could also damage your lines. If you’re putting away your flushing units for the winter, it’s essential to remove all water and waste. Empty your lines and tanks, then leave the valves open. Remember to remove your soap and sanitizer to prevent freezing.

However, if you want to keep using your flushing units, here are five methods for tank winterization:

• Brine solutions made with rock salt (NaCl): It’s the least expensive option and good for regions with temps 0°F or above. But it can corrode components that aren’t aluminum or stainless steel. Choose the appropriate salt-to-water ratio for your restroom tank, mix the solution, and add it to your tank.
• De-icing salt (MgCl2) solution or crystal: A more costly method but works for temperatures down to 26°F with a half-pound per gallon of water, -20°F with 2 pounds per gallon and -26°F with 2 ¼ pounds per gallon. It comes as a liquid or crystals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve the right mix.
• Methanol: It may be less expensive than other solutions, but it’s highly toxic and combustible, meaning you’ll need to take extra precautions. Use around 42 ounces per gallon for protection from temperatures as low as -9°F. If you add too much, your toilet tank can become flammable.
• Methanol plus rock salt (NaCl): This solution works for temperatures down to -40°F and is slightly higher priced than pure brine solutions. While adding 2 pounds of rock salt and 40 ounces of methanol per gallon could protect your tank from freezing, the flammable and toxic nature makes it less desirable.
• De-icing additives: Mid-range priced but easier to use than other methods and much safer than methanol. The effectiveness varies by manufacturer. For example, PRO’s Choice Hot Flakes De-Icer prevents freezing to -25°F. You don’t have to dissolve anything, just add the pellets to your toilet tank.

Portable Restroom Winterization Protects Your Flushing Units

Flushing units are an excellent investment for PROs, especially when your market includes high-end events. However, you must take special care to protect your units during the winter. Follow tips for winterization, and refer to manufacturer guidance when in doubt.

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