
Choosing Between a Solar 1+1 Loo and a 3+1 Toilet Block: What’s Right for Your Site?
At MW Hire Group, we know there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to welfare facilities. From traditional 3+1 toilet blocks to the increasingly popular AJC self-contained 1+1 solar loo, each option plays an important role depending on your project’s needs.
Rather than replacing one with the other, it’s about choosing the right solution for the right environment. Here’s a practical guide to help you decide when a solar loo is the better fit—and when a larger toilet block still makes perfect sense.
🚧 The Role of the 3+1 Toilet Block
Let’s start with what the 3+1 unit does best.
A standard toilet block is the go-to choice for:
- Larger workforce numbers
- Long-term projects
- Sites with reliable power and servicing access
- Locations where centralised welfare facilities are preferred
These units provide:
- Multiple toilets in a single location
- Higher capacity for busy sites
- Familiar, robust welfare infrastructure
For busy construction sites, civil projects, or major infrastructure works, a 3+1 block remains a highly efficient and practical solution.
🌞 Where the AJC 1+1 Solar Loo Comes Into Its Own
The AJC self-contained solar loo isn’t about replacing the toilet block—it’s about offering greater flexibility in situations where traditional solutions are less efficient.
1. Remote or Off-Grid Locations
If your site doesn’t have easy access to power:
- No generators needed
- No cabling or setup
- Fully self-sufficient operation
This makes the solar unit ideal for:
- Rural projects
- Roadworks and utilities
- Early-stage site development
2. Smaller Crews or Short-Term Works
For projects with:
- Limited personnel
- Short durations
- Temporary or mobile work areas
A full 3+1 block may be more than what’s required.
The 1+1 solar loo offers:
- Right-sized capacity
- Lower cost commitment
- Efficient use of space
3. Sites with Limited Space
In tighter environments, positioning a large toilet block can be challenging.
The compact footprint of the solar loo allows you to:
- Place units closer to work zones
- Maximise usable site space
- Improve accessibility for workers
4. Phased or Expanding Projects
Not every job starts at full scale.
With solar units, you can:
- Start small and build up gradually
- Add more units as workforce numbers increase
- Avoid overcommitting too early
This gives project managers greater control over costs and resources.
5. Supporting Existing Welfare Setups
One of the most practical uses of the solar loo is alongside a main toilet block.
For example:
- Supplementing a 3+1 unit on busy sites
- Providing facilities in secondary or remote work areas
- Reducing foot traffic to a central location
This hybrid approach improves efficiency, convenience, and worker productivity.
6. Sustainability Goals
For companies working towards:
- Reduced emissions
- ESG targets
- Greener construction practices
Solar-powered units offer a clear advantage:
- No fuel consumption
- Reduced environmental impact
- Lower reliance on generators
They’re a strong addition to any site looking to modernise its approach to welfare.
⚖️ Making the Right Choice
In simple terms:
Choose a 3+1 Toilet Block WhenChoose a Solar 1+1 Loo WhenYou have a large workforceYou have a smaller crewThe project is long-termThe job is short-term or mobilePower and access are availableThe site is remote/off-gridCentralised facilities are idealFlexibility is key
🤝 The MW Hire Group Approach
At MW Hire Group, we don’t push one solution over another—we help you find the right balance.
In many cases, the best setup includes:
- A 3+1 toilet block as the main welfare hub
- Solar 1+1 units placed strategically across the site
This combination delivers:
- Capacity where you need it
- Flexibility where you don’t
- Efficiency across the entire project
✅ Final Thoughts
The rise of solar-powered welfare isn’t about replacing traditional options—it’s about enhancing them.
The AJC self-contained 1+1 solar loo offers a smarter solution for:
- Remote locations
- Smaller or emerging sites
- Projects needing flexibility
While the 3+1 toilet block continues to be the backbone of larger, long-term operations.
Talk to MW Hire Group
Whether you need a single solar unit, a full toilet block, or a tailored welfare setup, our team is here to help.
👉 Get in touch today and let’s build the right solution for your site.

