Nature Loo™ Installation Overview

What’s included: Nature Loo™ systems ship as a complete package with the core components you need. You’ll typically source additional installation materials such as straight vent pipe, brackets, and trench gravel locally (cheaper and easier to transport), but WCTNZ® also offers these as installation kits if you want to get everything at once.

Who can install & what you’ll need

For NZ/AU council-consented installs, a licensed plumber generally needs to sign off on the installation. For private/off-grid projects, a capable DIYer who can drill holes and glue PVC can usually complete the install in half a day by following the manual.

Typical tools & materials: screwdrivers, drill + holesaw, jigsaw, PVC non-pressure glue, silicone, basic hand tools, vent brackets, and materials for a small absorption trench.

The ventilation fan is low-voltage (12/24 V DC). If you’ll power it from mains, place a standard outlet near the fan/vent run.

Placement: split systems (Alectura range)

A pedestal in the bathroom drops materials via a ∅ 250 mm floor opening to the chamber under-floor. Allow ≥ 500 mm clearance under the floor for the chamber. The standard chute is 613mm long; order an extra length if your floor-to-ground distance exceeds 865mm. Prepare a stable, level base directly under the chute (small pad or sleepers). A gentle fall (~20 mm over 1 m) toward the drain helps liquid move away. Keep the out-of-service (curing) chamber in a warm, sunny, secure spot. 

Placement: self-contained systems (NL3)

This places the chamber inside the pedestal, so installs are quick. Position on an outside wall if possible so the 100 mm vent and 19 mm drain can exit directly. If not, the drain can go through the floor/foundations and the vent can run vertically through the ceiling/roof. Chamber change-outs happen at the pedestal.

Ventilation (24/7 negative pressure)

The low-voltage fan runs continuously, drawing air down the pedestal, through the chamber, and out the vent—keeping odours out of the bathroom and oxygen in the compost. Use locally sourced straight PVC vent lengths and brackets; fit insect mesh and caps. Extend the vent to ~600 mm above the highest roof point and seal all joints. Avoid a separate bathroom extractor that could reverse-draw from the chute.

Excess liquid absorption trench (AS/NZS 1546.2)

Connect the chamber’s liquid outlet to a small absorption trench sized to your model/occupancy and compliant with AS/NZS 1546.2 (plus any local requirements). Chambers include drain valves, connectors and ~1.5 m of hose. Typically you’ll couple to 50 mm PVC and then to slotted ag-pipe in the trench. 

Commissioning checklist

1. Set bases & alignments: chamber base level, chute straight, vent route and drain fall confirmed.
2. Fit & seal: glue chute/seals, assemble vent with mesh/cap, connect drain to trench.
3. Power & draft: power the fan; confirm a gentle, constant inward draft at the bowl.
4. Start-up prep: prepare the starter bed in the active chamber (see “How to Start Your System”).
5. Access: ensure clear space for chamber swaps and routine checks.

This streamlined guide keeps the practical detail you need, aligns with current guidance, and avoids unnecessary complexity—so installs stay tidy, compliant, and repeatable.

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