Keeping Porta Potties Working Through an Oklahoma Freeze

Do porta potties freeze in Oklahoma winters?

A standard porta potty tank can freeze at the surface when Oklahoma nights stay well below 32°F, but the unit still works. Flushing units and hand-wash stations freeze first because their fresh-water lines and pumps hold water. From December to February we add non-toxic antifreeze to tanks in freezing weeks.

Should I switch units for winter?

Switch a winter jobsite from deluxe flushing units to standard units when overnight lows stay below freezing for several days. Replace hand-wash stations with hand-sanitizer stands during hard freezes, then switch back when temperatures rise. We make the swap on the regular service day.

See hand-wash stations and long-term rentals.

Can service still happen during ice storms?

Service can be delayed by a day or two during an ice storm, because pump trucks cannot safely run on icy roads. We call ahead when routes are delayed and catch up as soon as roads clear. Leave extra paper on site before a forecast storm.

How can crews keep winter units usable?

Crews can keep winter units usable by placing them on the south side of a building out of the wind, keeping the door closed, and clearing snow and ice from the base and door path. A unit facing away from north winds stays noticeably warmer inside.