In the world of portable sanitation solutions, Thetford has made a name for itself with a variety of models tailored to meet a wide range of needs.
Among these models, the Thetford 92814 Porta Potti 345 which is sometimes described as their "marine toilet" but I personally don't know why.
It's just your standard chemical toilet that can be used for camping or any other portable application.
Here's the bottom line on this one...
This toilet is a low cost, functional toilet that will serve travellers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts just fine *if* you are up for a chemical toilet.
This is a big *if* for many people who've actually used, emptied and cleaned a chemical toilet.
For the initiated, I'm just going to add this short video so you actually know what you're in for no matter which chemical toilet you buy.
Obviously, videos like this don't sell chemical toilets too well but this is the reality.
If you're ok with that, and you're happy with the price and capacity of the toilet, this toilet is just fine.
Just go to Anaconda, Tentworld, or any major camping retailer and grab one.
Before you do though, watch this short video and see what we sell:
Our toilet is WAY more expensive.
It requires that you buy bags on an ongoing basis.
BUT - you will never have to do the nasty task of what chemical toilets require.
In my mind, if you can afford the money, why would you add a dark stain (pardon the pun) to every camping trip by ruining your time away quite literally dealing with other people's shit?
Don't you do enough of that in life already?
Amazon Reviews
As always, we dive into the negative reviews and see if there's any valid design flaws that are consistent.
With this toilet, there's not much bad stuff from a design point of view that is consistently reported.
There are a few people that complain about the flimsy plastic or a broken vent valve or a plunger mechanism that's broken, but those people are in the minority. At scale, those kinds of things are going to occur to even the best products.
At the end of the day, this a toilet that sells for less than $200 in Australia.
What do you really expect for that?
In my view, this is a mass produced product that is made well for the price.
Here's a snapshot of the reviews anyway.
What is Thetford Porta Potti 345 Portable Toilet?
The Thetford Porta Potti 345 is a medium-sized portable toilet that operates using the chemical system.
Designed for those who seek a low cost, sanitation solution without the bulkiness of larger units, this model is ideal for various outdoor and indoor applications.
Its compact design ensures it fits comfortably in various spaces while still providing the essential features and ease of use that Thetford is renowned for.
As a trusted name in the industry, Thetford's commitment to quality is evident in this medium-sized portable model, ensuring users have a hassle-free and hygienic experience.
Product specs
In case you're a details person, listed here are the full specs for the Porta Potti toilet, including size, seat height and all that stuff.
How is Thetford Porta Potti 345 Marine Toilet Operated?
The Thetford Porta Potti 345 Marine Toilet embodies simplicity paired with effectiveness.
Sporting a pristine white finish, this marine toilet is aesthetically pleasing and designed with ease of use at its core.
The operation begins with its manual flush mechanism.
Unlike complex systems that may require external water sources or power, this model offers a straightforward manual flush.
This ensures that waste is efficiently channeled into the waste holding tank, minimizing odors and maintaining hygiene.
Key Features of a Thetford Porta Potti 345 Compact Toilet
Clean Removable Seat
One of the features of the Thetford Porta Potti 345 Compact Toilet is its clean removable seat.
This design ensures that users can easily detach the seat for thorough cleaning or maintenance.
Moreover, it offers exclusive seating comfort, Such a feature is particularly advantageous in ensuring the toilet's hygiene, especially during prolonged use.
Easy Cleaning Functionality
Exclusive to the Thetford lineup, the Porta Potti 345 boasts an easy cleaning functionality that sets it apart from many portable toilets on the market.
This feature simplifies emptying and sanitizing the waste tank, ensuring a clean and odor-free experience after every use.
Compact and Lightweight Design
Given its name, the Thetford Porta Potti 345 Compact Toilet offers a space-saving and lightweight design. This makes it a perfect choice for campers, boaters, and travellers who need a reliable sanitation solution without the burden of carrying a bulky unit.
Manual Flush
Unlike portable toilets requiring battery-operated flush systems, the Porta Potti 345 is equipped with an efficient manual flush.
This not only reduces the complexity of the unit but also ensures reliable performance in various environments.
Integrated Ergonomic Handle
The Thetford Porta Potti 345 features an integrated carrying handle for enhanced portability.
This ensures that users can easily transport the toilet from one location to another with minimal effort.
Maintaining the Thetford Porta Potti 345 Marine Toilet
Maintaining the Thetford Porta Potti 345 Marine Toilet is crucial to ensure its longevity, optimal performance, and hygienic conditions.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you keep your toilet in the best shape:
1. Regular Cleaning:
Regularly clean the toilet to prevent build-up of waste or residue. Use mild detergents and a soft cloth or brush to scrub both the interior and exterior surfaces.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads as they can scratch and damage the surface.
2. Emptying the Waste Holding Tank:
Frequency: Depending on usage, you should empty the waste tank regularly to prevent overfilling and odors.
Procedure: Ensure the flush tank is empty. Then, separate the waste holding tank from the flush tank, take it to a proper sanitary dump station, and empty the contents.
Sanitizing: After emptying, you can rinse the waste tank with a mixture of water and a mild detergent or a specific toilet cleaning solution. Make sure to rinse thoroughly before reassembling.
3. Refilling the Flush Tank:
Refill the flush tank with fresh water. You can also add a small amount of toilet chemical or deodorizer to reduce odors and break down waste more efficiently.
4. Check Seals and Valves:
Over time, the seals and valves of the toilet can wear out. Regularly inspect them for any signs of damage. If they appear worn or do not seal properly, consider replacing them to ensure efficient functioning.
5. Lubrication:
To maintain smooth operation, occasionally lubricate the seal on the waste tank with a silicone lubricant. This helps in preventing the seal from drying out and cracking.
6. Storage:
If you're not using the toilet for an extended period:
Empty both tanks.
Clean the toilet thoroughly.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Consider adding a small amount of toilet chemical to the waste tank to prevent odors during storage.
7. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Never use bleach or other harsh chemicals in the toilet as they can damage the seals and other components.
8. Check for Leaks:
Periodically inspect your Porta Potti for any signs of leaks, especially at the junction between the flush and waste tanks. If you find any issues, address them promptly.
By following these maintenance steps, you can ensure that your Thetford Porta Potti 345 Marine Toilet remains functional, clean, and ready for use for many adventures to come.
Pros and Cons of a Thetford Porta Potti 345 Toilet
Here are some models benefits and drawbacks:
Pros:
- Compact Design
- Ease of Use
- Clean Removable Seat
- Holding tank convenience
- Odor Prevention
- Super affordable
Cons:
It's a chemical toilet.
You're going to be driving around to find public dumping points, literal holes in the ground where thousands of others have dumping their sewage, and you're going to be hand pouring your own poo and wee (and everyone else you're camping with) down that hell hole of filth.
If you're ok with that, there's no down side :-)
Pricing
The price of the Thetford Porta Potti 345 or any other product can vary based on the region, retailer, supply-demand factors, and other market dynamics.
In Australia, the price is generally between $160-$200 depending on who you buy it from.
For the most accurate and current pricing information on the Thetford Porta Potti 345 or any other product, I would recommend checking:
The Manufacturer's Website: Often, manufacturers will list the suggested retail price (SRP) or provide links to authorized dealers.
Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Tentworld, Anaconda and maybe even Bunnings.
Conclusion
The Thetford Porta Potti 345 is a cheap, basic, chemical toilet.
There's nothing wrong with this product, especially for the price.
Whether you're on the road, at sea, or camping in the wilderness, this portable toilet will do the trick and give you a hassle-free experience for the most part.
So long as you have the stomach for the emptying and maintenance.
