Keeping Porta Potties Fresh in Texas Summer Heat
DFW averages about 20 days a year at 100°F or hotter, and the July average high is about 96°F. Heat changes how a porta potty should be placed and serviced.
How does heat affect a porta potty?
Heat speeds up the breakdown of waste and makes odor stronger, and it warms the inside of the unit by several degrees above the outside air. Deodorizer works harder and runs out faster. In July and August, a unit that smells fine on day 3 can smell strong by day 6.
Climate data: the DFW July average high is 95.6°F (1991–2020 normals), and the National Weather Service in Fort Worth notes an average of about 20 days a year at 100°F or higher, with the first one typically around July 1.
How often should a porta potty be serviced in summer?
In a Texas summer, service a porta potty twice a week for any crew of 10 or more, and weekly for smaller crews and home rentals. Twice-weekly service costs $45 per unit per week. Events of 1–3 days do not need service unless the crowd is more than 50 guests per unit.
| Use | Spring/Fall | July–August |
|---|---|---|
| Crew of 1–9 | Weekly | Weekly |
| Crew of 10–20 | Weekly | Twice weekly |
| Home rental | Weekly | Weekly |
| 3-day event | None | None if ≤50 guests/unit |
Where should a porta potty go in hot weather?
In hot weather, put the porta potty in afternoon shade, on the north or east side of a building or tree line, with the door facing away from the afternoon sun. Keep it off dark asphalt when there is a choice. Shade can keep the inside noticeably cooler.
How do I keep crews comfortable in the heat?
Keep crews comfortable by adding a unit before tanks fill, placing units in shade close to the work, adding a hand-washing station for a cool rinse, and keeping drinking water separate from the restroom area. Comfortable crews use the unit instead of leaving the site.
Quick answers
Does the blue liquid stop the smell?
The blue deodorizer masks odor and slows breakdown, but in heat it is used up faster. Regular pump-outs are what really control odor.