---
title: Ecolet 25a or 65a system has a smell
description: Ventilation and moisture are the most common causes for smells in the Ecolet. Check the installation, ventilation, and moisture level to help manage issues
---

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# Ecolet 25a or 65a system has a smell

## Ventilation and moisture are the common causes for smells

### Smells damp or like urine

A urine or damp odour is an indication that the system is too wet and not functioning properly. Try the following steps to help reduce the moisture content:

- Check the indicator tubes to see how much liquid is in your collection tray and overflow chamber
- Ensure you are using an absorbent bulking agent (like Peat Moss) to help soak up extra moisture in your composting chamber. Add extra if you need to, this will help reduce the amount of liquid draining into the collection drawer
- Turn the heater up and monitor for a change in smells and liquid in the indicator tube. This step can take a lot of time depending on the amount of liquid and your climate.
- Ensure that there is no obstruction to airflow and the ventilation piping is operating properly
- Make sure the ventilation pipe is insulated to prevent condensation
- There should be no horizontal ventilation piping as this will cause moisture to pool and stagnate

DO NOT put the bowl cover on as this will obstruct the ventilation 

### Smells dry or like burning

Remember that these Ecolet composting toilets are not designed to incinerate waste so the heaters should not reach those extreme temperatures. 

- Check the electrical cords are connected properly and in good condition
- Check the indicator hoses for moisture; if there is no liquid in the hoses turn the heater down
- Check the moisture content of the pile; if it appears to be dry add about 500ml of water and use the supplied rake to mix it by hand

 WARNING: if your compost chamber is too dry it can create resistance for the mixing arm which will break the shear pin

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