FAQs

How heavy is the TinyJohn? 

The TinyJohn is 72 lbs and its easy for 2 people to carry.

Is it portable? What method should I use to carry it?

Absolutely! Two, regular sized people can carry it.

Is it difficult to hook up? How do I hook it up?

Not at all. The first step in the installation process is to install the vent pipe. You have an option to install it through the wall and then up along the wall; or through the wall with a horizontal rain cap; or through the ceiling. 

Once the vent is installed, you then need to connect your propane connections between the TinyJohn terminal and your propane source. A standard, 5 gallon barbecue propane tank will work perfectly. TinyJohn also comes with:

1) 12 volt wires which only needs to be connected to a 12VDC battery.

2) Power cord and plug for hook up to 120/240VAC receptacle.

* If you are running gas pipe to your ECOJOHN, a standard ⅜” propane connector will work perfectly. 

How long does it take to install TinyJohn?

If the 2 people method is used, then both people can install a TinyJohn within a couple of hours. The installation can be done by yourself or local handyman/contractor. 

Can ECOJOHN go completely off-grid?

Yes! TinyJohn actually only requires a 12VDC battery source and a small propane tank.

What type of power does TinyJohn use?

TinyJohn uses both electricity and propane.

Can I hook it up to propane?

Of course!

What propane connection is required?

A standard ⅜” connector is required. 11" WC.

Can I run it on gas?

Yes, the TinyJohn runs on either Propane or Natural Gas.

How much gas does it use per month/year?

This all depends on the usage. A standard 5 gallon propane tank last about 75 flushes before it needs to be refilled. 

Does it need electricity?

Yes. TinyJohn uses 12VDC, or 120/240VAC. The standard gas model comes as a dual model that has a 120VAC plug as well as 12VDC battery wires

How many amps does the gas model draw?

1.5 amps during operation. When in standby/idle, the load is almost nothing, just need to power a small LED light. 

How many amps does the electric model draw?

15 amps during operation. When in standby/idle, the load is almost nothing, just need to power a small LED light. 

Is TinyJohn safe?

Completely! TinyJohn has several internal safety features to ensure you don't get harmed. TinyJohn was designed with temp sensors, safety shut off valves and switches to prevent anything from catching fire, completely sealed unit, and completely insulated and sealed burn chamber. As soon as you open the seat, open the control unit, or even open the ash chamber, TinyJohn instantly shuts down to ensure your safety.

How long is a burn cycle?

The burn cycles depends on model and fuel (TinyJohn, TinyJohn XL, gas or electric). The burn cycle is about 45 minutes for a liquid flush and about 1 hour and 15 min for a waste flush for a regular TinyJohn gas model. The electric model runs a little bit longer. The TinyJohn XL process the loads faster, so they range around 30 minutes to an 45 min.

If it’s in a burn cycle, can I use it?

Yes. We made sure you didn't have to wait to do your business. As soon as you open the lid, the burning cycle instantly stops. When you close the lid, the burn cycle will begin again.

How many people can use it immediately after one another?

4-5 people can use the TinyJohn back to back. 8-10 people can use the TinyJohn XL back to back. 

Does the vent stack or chimney get hot?

No, the vent pipe can get warm to the touch, but that's all. The exhaust begins at 220 F. It releases at around 150 F from the top of the pipe, but the pipe will not burn you.

How often do I need to empty the ashes?

It depends on usage. If 2 people use it daily, we recommend checking the ashes every 3-4 weeks. We also recommend that every time you change the propane tank, you check the ash chamber, and catalytic converter as well.

How do I clean out the ashes?

All you have to do to clean the ashes is open the access panel in front of the TinyJohn, pull out the tray, and dump the neutralized ash into your yard or trash. You can even vacuum the small amount out of the chamber.

Do I need to clean the bowl of my ECOJOHN?

Yes, you do. The bowl is removable for cleaning to make it easier for you. We provide liners that keep the bowl clean as well. Overall, cleaning your TinyJohn bowl is simple.

Do I need to change liners with every use?

A new liner is required for every use. The liner will drop into the burn chamber when you flush, and it will be incinerated as well.

Can I use it with no water hook ups?

Of course you can! Tiny John is completely waterless. If you require water, our SepticJohn models are ideal. 

Can I use it in a very cold environment?

Since TinyJohn is waterless, it can operate in a cold temperature. The propane connections work at temperatures as low as -40 C.

Does it have an emission?

Yes, but the emissions from TinyJohn are extremely low and hardly register on the EPA emissions table.

What are the emissions?

The emissions are CO and Co2 which are only a few parts per million.

What is the maintenance?

The maintenance is really simple. It includes cleaning out the ashes, changing propane tank, clean the catalytic converter, and clean exhaust fan when required. 

How often must I run service/maintenance?

You may need to check your parts when you clean out your ashes. The maintenance for TinyJohn is minimal.  

Do you have spare parts in stock?

Yes. We carry all of the spare parts you would ever need!

Who do I contact with technical problems?

Contact your local dealer, or contact ECOJOHN to talk with our tech support or customer service departments.

Do you have speed delivery?

Yes, we want to make sure you have what you need, when you need it. If you need a TinyJohn fast, we can deliver. Ask for expedited service if you need it sooner than 4 weeks. 

Does it require a pipe or vent?

Yes. Tiny John requires a vent for exhaust. The exhaust has extremely low emissions and the pipe is warm to the touch.

What is the vent clearance from a wall?

We recommend 2” clearance from the wall.

How should I vent my ECOJOHN? Straight or angled?

You come out through the back of the unit. You can use an elbow and run it up the wall outside, run an elbow straight up the wall inside, or straight out of the wall, perpendicular to the ground. It is also possible to cap the vent horizontally when you come out through the wall. This is a popular way to vent it in RVs or van conversion. 

How does it work?

1) Open the seat.

2) Use your liner.

3) Use the toilet. 

4) Close the seat.

5)Hit the flush button.

6) Trap door opens, releases waste.

7) Trap door closes.

8) Once #7 is complete, the Burn cycle will begin shortly.

9) The burn cycle will run until finished in different stages.

10) The LED indicator will flash green when finished.

* If there is any problem with the burn cycle, a red LED will flash with a description of the problem and troubleshooting.

11) When the max capacity message is on, you must wait for the burn cycle to finish.

12) Also, TinyJohn can be set to remind you of cleanings. 

If I use propane, how many flushes can I get per tank? 

You can get around 75 flushes per tank on average.

Is it good for the environment?