The lifespan of a portable toilet is usually 10 years. Porta potties are made from polyethylene, a durable plastic that makes it perfect for extended use.
So if you’re planning on having a large event, or working on a site for an extended period, you’ve got nothing to worry about.
The average lifespan of a toilet that you get from a company that specializes in porta potties rentals in Atlanta is going to function for the duration of your event and well after.
That being said, what is the actual “life cycle” of a porta potty from creation to “retirement”?
The Lifespan of a Portable Toilet
As mentioned, the life expectancy of a toilet is about a decade. But there are certain stages it goes through, depending on its age and usage.
The more times the porta-potty is hauled back and forth to different locations, the more wear and tear it absorbs. But due to its durability, a water-saving portable bathroom only needs to be serviced about once every 200 uses.
Read More: Can You Use Bleach in a Portable Toilet?
Stage 1 of a Porta Potty Lifespan: Fresh From the Factory
Brand new porta potties typically get placed at high-end special events and feature the newest technologies.
These newly manufactured porta-potties are typically more expensive to purchase due to limited supply and high demand.
Stage 2 of a Porta Potty Lifespan: Light Wear and Tear
Porta potties are valued much like vehicles. Once a new vehicle comes out, the older model is reduced a tier.
Of course, this doesn’t magically make the older models any less useful or valuable, but simple market economics can bring the price and perceived value down.
You’ll often see porta potties with light wear at construction sites or informal events. They might not be “fresh off the factory floor” but they are well maintained and clean.
These are typically ideal for events like festivals, birthday parties, and other places that large crowds gather.
Stage 3 of a Porta Potty Lifespan: Moderate Wear and Tear
At the midpoint of its lifecycle, a portable bathroom will have a little more wear and tear. It might have some dents, scratches, or other signs of being moved around.
It might make the portable toilet look a little dated, which is while you’ll often find them at construction sites or demolition sites. The good news is they still function without any issues and are perfectly safe and sanitary.
The polyethylene material prevents odors from staying around as well.
Stage 4 of a Porta Potty Lifespan: Advanced Wear and Tear
The final stage in the lifespan of a porta potty is when it needs to be replaced. This could be due to an uncommon event like an accident, which causes extra damage.
At this point, the unit is typically sold to another party or taken apart and destroyed.
What Stage of Its Lifecycle Will Your Porta Potty Be In?
If a porta potty is still available for rent, it will be in great condition both lifecycle wise and sanitarily. That means it will be in the light to moderate wear range, most of the time.
Typical Damages that Porta Potties May Go Through
Portable toilets are designed to last 10 years. If stored and cared for properly, then there should not be weather damage.
However, over time every portable toilet can experience wear and tear, especially once it reaches the 10-year category.
If kept in a construction area, debris from construction can cause additional dents and scratches. Luckily, a toilet that is sanitized correctly will be safe to use in spite of aesthetic signs of age.
Maintenance for Portable Toilets
The first and most important part of maintaining a porta potty is sanitization. Keeping the toilet clean with disinfectants and odor control will ensure it is safe and comfortable to use.
Beyond that, preventing tipping is another maintenance tip that will extend the life of the toilet. Keeping the porta potty in a well-lit area can deter vandalization, maintaining the external aesthetics over its lifetime.
Finally work with a proven, professional porta potty company that can help you empty the unit frequently to maintain safety and health standards.
