Space requirements
Before deciding to install a Nature’s Head, please ensure that the following space requirements are met:
- There is enough room for the lid to open fully.
- The bowl has enough room to tilt backwards so that both it and the liquid tank can be removed easily.
- There is enough room for the hose connection and for the handle of the composting agitator. Both of these can be fitted at either side of the unit for ease of installation.
Details of dimensions and space requirements may be found under Product Features.
Fitting
The unit is secured to the floor with two L-brackets, which may be positioned to the inside or outside of the base, as required.
- Mounting screws or bolts are not included.
- The holes in the brackets are for ¼ inch (6 mm) screws or bolts.
- If you decide to mount your unit with the L-brackets facing inward, into the recesses provided in the base, please use counter-sunk screws or bolts.
Please do not tighten the hold-down knobs too hard as this will damage the threads in the base.
Power connection
A simple 12 Volt fan (similar to those found in computers) drawing less than 1 amp is the only power requirement for the unit. The power hook-up − a single pin attachment with a wire length of 6 feet (1.80 m) − is also included.
As with all electrical connections, ensure that your head is on a fused circuit. The fuse should be no less than 2 amps and no more than 5 amps.
Powerless installation
The unit can also be installed in a completely powerless installation by using a solar vent on the cabin top and attaching the vent hose underneath. Make sure to choose a solar vent with battery back-up so that the head will vent continuously. The fan can be left in the unit if you decide on this option.
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Venting
The unit must be vented outside to allow for proper growth of the beneficial bacteria needed in the composting process and to keep the head smelling fresh. The vent will also provide the additional benefit of continuous positive ventilation of fresh air through the boat. That means that installing a Nature’s Head should improve air quality and reduce humidity throughout the boat.
Solar vents, mushroom vents or clamshell vents (which are not provided with your Nature’s Head) are most commonly used for venting to the exterior. You will need to choose a vent that best meets the requirements in your boat. As outlined below, use of a solar vent with a battery back-up so that the head will vent continuously, represents an alternative power-free installation.
Provided with your Nature’s Head are hose adaptors that connect directly to the head and the outside vent. A venting hose, also included, then attaches directly to these adapters.
Clamping is not necessary on the connection with the Head and not normally necessary on the exterior connector. On an overhead connection, you may find it necessary to clamp the vent end, depending on the amount of support you provide for the vent hose. Provided the hose is supported adequately, you will probably not need a clamp.
The vent hose must go on the housing that has the fan inside it. The unit is designed to pull fresh air through the head and ventilate it outside. If you disassemble the fan housing, always remember to check that the fan is blowing out of the vent before attaching the vent hose.
The fan/filter flange is interchangeable with the filter-only flange should you want to change the side it’s located on for easier installation. Simply swap sides with the components and their respective housings.
Finally, the agitator handle must be attached to the pre-threaded agitator. If you’d like to move the handle to the opposite site of the base, the agitator must be removed manually, reversed and replaced. The extended nut must be re-attached before connecting the handle. It is recommended that you use a spanner to hold the extended nut while you tighten the nut to the agitator and then the handle to the nut. Both should be reasonably tight so that they don’t become loose when the unit is in service.
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