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Portaloos

Portable Toilet Myths: What Depends on the Hire Setup?

Summary

Separate common assumptions about smell, plumbing, servicing and event units from the actual product arrangements.

20 July 2022
Updated October 2026
photo of Poles and Holes employees laughing at phone
Doug
Owner & Director

Doug and Deb purchased Poles and Holes in 2002 as its third owners. Doug is the owner and director of the Capalaba business, which was established in 1960 and supplies temporary power poles, portable toilets and site security cameras.

Portable toilets vary by model and hire arrangement. These common assumptions are worth checking before choosing a unit.

Do all portaloos use recirculated water?

No. Our fleet uses fresh water flushing. Other designs may work differently, so ask about the supplied unit instead of assuming every portable toilet uses the same system. Follow its instructions for water and chemicals.

Are toilets always smelly?

Odour depends on preparation, usage and care. A clean unit still needs adequate supplies and servicing, and the hirer needs to keep it tidy between visits. We do not promise that any toilet will remain odour-free regardless of conditions.

Persistent odour or a flush problem needs attention. Contact the supplier rather than adding unapproved chemicals or waiting for the next scheduled visit.

Does every unit need a sewer connection?

Self-contained units store waste for pump-out and do not need a sewer. A sewer-connect model deliberately uses site sewer and water connections arranged with a plumber. The product comparison explains which arrangement suits each site.

Does every hire include servicing?

Standard construction hire includes fortnightly pump-out, cleaning and restocking. Event and trailer ongoing servicing is not included by default. Sewer-connect toilets avoid holding-tank pump-outs but still need routine hygiene and supplies.

Are event toilets the same ones used on building sites?

We keep a dedicated event fleet separate from our construction units. Event toilets arrive cleaned and stocked for the agreed hire. Someone still needs to check cleanliness and supplies during the event.

Can one toilet handle any number of people?

No. A tank volume or a sewer connection does not establish a safe or convenient user capacity. Numbers depend on use, duration, access and any project or event requirements. Plan the quantity and service schedule together.

For practical next steps, use the event quantity guide or construction amenities guide, then choose the relevant product.

Related Service

Portaloo & Portable Toilet Hire

Explore our portable toilet hire options for construction sites and events.

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Frequently asked questions

Are event toilets part of the construction fleet?
No. We keep a dedicated event fleet separate from construction units. Both are prepared for their agreed hire arrangement.
Does a sewer connection mean unlimited toilet capacity?
No. It avoids routine holding-tank pump-outs, but the number of toilets, access, cleaning and plumbing still need to suit the users.

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