Waste-holding tank level indicator shows red even though the tank is not full.

Possible cause: Residual waste has dried on the float inside the waste-holding tank.. Clean the float inside the waste-holding tank.

The pump does not work or the toilet does not flush.

Possible cause: The flush-water tank is empty.. Fill the flush-water tank with water.

The pump does not work (electric version).

Possible cause: Batteries are flat or dead.. Replace the batteries (for model 565).

Water leakage from the venting system during travel

Possible cause: Waste-holding tank is filled more than 3/4 full. Empty the waste tank before you set off, and never travel with it more than three-quarters full.

Water leakage in caravan or motorhome from toilet bowl

Possible cause: Water left in the toilet bowl during travel. Ensure the toilet bowl is empty of water before travelling.

Water leakage from flush-water tank during travel

Possible cause: Flush-water tank is filled too full. Travel with an empty flush-water tank, or at least filled no more than halfway.

Clogging in the waste system

Possible cause: Use of ordinary toilet paper. Avoid ordinary toilet paper - use a quick-dissolving toilet paper made for cassette toilets.

Leakage from the waste-holding tank

Possible cause: The seals were lubricated with Vaseline or vegetable oil, or the lip seal has worn.. Don't use Vaseline or vegetable oil on the seals - treat them with a dedicated seal lubricant instead. A seal that's worn out has to be replaced by an authorised service agent.

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Thetford • Bathroom

Thetford 565 Series

Official technical documentation and workshop diagnostics for Porta Potti.

Technical Specifications

Operating Voltage12V DC (565E model uses 6 batteries)

Master Troubleshooting & Diagnostics Matrix

Error Code / Indicator	Symptom / Meaning	Possible Cause	Step-by-Step DIY Fix	Suggested Actions
`N/A`	Waste-holding tank level indicator shows red even though the tank is not full.	Residual waste has dried on the float inside the waste-holding tank.	Clean the float inside the waste-holding tank.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	The pump does not work or the toilet does not flush.	The flush-water tank is empty.	Fill the flush-water tank with water.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	The pump does not work (electric version).	Batteries are flat or dead.	Replace the batteries (for model 565).	DIY Safe
`N/A`	Water leakage from the venting system during travel	Waste-holding tank is filled more than 3/4 full	Empty the waste tank before you set off, and never travel with it more than three-quarters full.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	Water leakage in caravan or motorhome from toilet bowl	Water left in the toilet bowl during travel	Ensure the toilet bowl is empty of water before travelling.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	Water leakage from flush-water tank during travel	Flush-water tank is filled too full	Travel with an empty flush-water tank, or at least filled no more than halfway.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	Clogging in the waste system	Use of ordinary toilet paper	Avoid ordinary toilet paper - use a quick-dissolving toilet paper made for cassette toilets.	DIY Safe
`N/A`	Leakage from the waste-holding tank	The seals were lubricated with Vaseline or vegetable oil, or the lip seal has worn.	Don't use Vaseline or vegetable oil on the seals - treat them with a dedicated seal lubricant instead. A seal that's worn out has to be replaced by an authorised service agent.	DIY Check / Tech Fallback

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which Porta Potti fits the best in my Van?

This depends on the situation in your Van. For all dimensions, please check the specifications of our portable toilets.

Q: Which one is the smallest Porta Potti?

The Porta Potti 335 is the smallest portable toilet in our range.

Q: What are the maximum and minimum temperatures a Porta Potti will operate?

All Porta Potti models can stand the following temperatures: +1°C to +60°C (operational) -40°C to +60°C (storage).

Q: Can I use Aqua Kem Blue in my Porta Potti?

Yes this is possible, the correct quantities can be found on the Aqua Kem Blue label.

Q: How does the Porta Potti work?

Toilet consists of 2 sections: the upper section is a combined flush water tank and toilet bowl with detachable seat and cover. The lower section is the waste-holding tank.

Q: Where can I buy a spare holding tank for my Porta Potti?

Sorry, the tank is not available separately. So you can’t buy a spare holding tank for your Porta Potti.

Q: What’s the difference between a bellow and a piston pump?

The difference is that the bellow pump is a simple pump that has to be pushed in order to rinse. The piston pump is a more luxurious pump that is easy to operate by pulling it up.

Q: I do not have a drain and electricity in my holiday home. Can I use a Porta Potti?

All portable toilets don’t require a connection to a drainage or water system. Therefore the Porta Potti is a perfect solution for those situations.

Q: How does the level indication of the Porta Potti work?

The indication works with a float equipped with a magnet. When it rises, it comes to the sensor and indicates that your tank is full.

Q: What special maintenance do you advise for the Porta Potti toilets?

To prolong the life span of a portable toilet we advise to maintain a Porta Potti toilet regularly. Use Duo Tank Cleaner Concentrated for the waste-holding tank 2-3 times a year. Duo Tank Cleaner Concentrated safely removess stubborn calcium deposits on the inside of a waste-holding tank and Seal Lubricant keeps the seals soft.

Q: What can I do when the flush tube of my Porta Potti is broken?

It’s only possible to replace the complete toilet in case of a broken flush tube.

Q: What can I do when my pump of my Porta Potti 565E electric doesn’t work?

Check if the batteries are ok and replace them if it’s necessary. If this does not solve your issue, please contact your dealer or Thetford Service Centre.

Q: What is the maximum loading in kg for a Porta Potti?

All Porta Potti’s are fully functional with a load of 120 kg during normal use.