Summary
This compost bin range is designed for households seeking higher capacity and improved tolerance to seasonal conditions. The trade-off is size and space requirements versus greater volume and buffering.
At a glance
| Brand name/manufacturer: | Thermo-King (Garantia, Germany) |
| Bin type: | Static box |
| Stated capacity: | 900 litres (also available in 400, 600) |
| Core materials: | 100% recyled plastic |
| Access: | Door panel at base |
| Warranty: | Not stated |
Scorecard summary
| Balanced scorecard: | 7.4 / 10 |
| Value for money rating: | Excellent |
| Best use: | Garden waste |
| View Product: | Visit Website (note sold in UK via distributors) |
Scorecard results
7.4 score reflects good capacity and sustainability, rather than any guarantee of faster composting or uniform outcomes. The high capacity unit and low price give it an excellent value for money rating. However, this is an ambient composter, not a ‘hot composter’. We find the wording and use of ‘thermo’ and ‘insulated plastic’ misguided.
What this bin does well
- Larger volumes support steadier biological activity under favourable conditions.
- 100% recyled, UV-resistant plastic panels offer a potential long life span.
- Panel construction reduces shipping cost, but is still easy to assemble.
- The base plate (added extra) will help with aeration.
- Range of sizes allows scaling to household needs.
Where this bin is limited
- Lower access may still yield mixed-stage material.
- The panels are made from recycled plastic. The process introduces some air pockets into each panel, giving a higher insulation rating over say a 2mm plastic sheet found in Dalex type bins. However, in composting, this insulation feature does not translate into heat retention or hot composting. The bin/panels have too many wall aeration gaps to facilitate any significant heat retention versus heat loss. We find this ‘thermo’ wording misplaced. It is an excellent VfM ambient compost bin!
Fit guide
Best for: medium to large households with regular inputs Consider if: you want volume and seasonal resilience Not ideal if: space is restricted
Build and longevity notes
Manufactured plastic panels are intended for long-term outdoor use; UV resistance details are not stated.
Practical ownership notes
Assembly is required; handling characteristics vary by size.
What we couldn’t verify
- Warranty duration
- Replacement parts availability
- Exact insulation specification
Summary
A high-capacity option suited to gardeners prioritising volume and robustness over compactness.
Disclaimer
Brand names such as HOTBIN, Aerobin, Thermo King, and others mentioned on this site are registered trademarks of their respective owners. Compost-bins.co.uk includes these examples for informational and comparative purposes only and does not claim endorsement, affiliation, or suitability for any specific use. Gardeners and buyers should always check current product specifications and manufacturer guidance before purchase or application.
