While the South African winter is fairly mild in comparison to the blizzards and snow days of the Northern Hemisphere, the thought of having to go to a traditional porta loo on an icy winter’s night (or day) is enough to make anyone shiver.
However, life doesn’t stop in winter time, and porta loos are still essential for outdoor events, large gatherings and ongoing construction projects. Cold, icy conditions call for some extra precautions and considerations when it comes to booking and placing portable toilets:
- Catch some sun
Make the most of winter sunshine. Plan to have portable toilets placed in an area that gets the most sun. This will help warm them up and make them more comfortable for the users during the day.
- Book higher-end units
For winter events that will be running into the night, consider investing in hiring VIP or luxury units that offer solar-power and better insulation. These units are also raised off the ground with stair access – ideal for use in the wet winter conditions typical of the Western Cape and frosty evenings inland.
- Give them some space
When the temperature drops, we all pile on the layers and heavy jackets. With such bulky clothing, bigger portable toilet units (such as the Fancy Flush Maxi Flush or VIP Paraplegic Disabled Toilet) make for an easier, more comfortable experience – with more space to accommodate scarves, hats and puffy jackets.
- Choose the location carefully
In some areas, frost and ice on walkways and stairs should be taken into consideration. The portable toilets should be easily accessible at all times, so salting the paths leading up to them can be important in areas that experience frost, sleet and snow. In other areas where heavy winter rains are common, elevation to avoid flooding (and muddy feet) can help.
- Shield them from the elements
To keep rented porta loos protected from harsh weather conditions, consider placing them against a building or under a roof to avoid frost and strong winds. This will also help to create a better experience for your event guests or workers.
- Keep up maintenance
Proper, regular maintenance of hired portable toilets shouldn’t stop when winter sets in – in fact, extra servicing might be required. This can help prevent waste water tanks from freezing, keeping them working optimally regardless of the season.
At Fancy Flush, we work with our clients to provide optimal toilet facilities for every occasion, at any time of the year. Whether you have an event coming up, a job site to equip, or a temporary bathroom outage at the office, we can find a solution that suits your needs and budget. Get in touch for expert advice and a quote today.