About Ridan-FOLO Composter

Welcome to The FAQ page

Here, we have compiled a list of common questions and answers to help you better understand our composters and the composting process. If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to our customer support team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a Ridan-FOLO composter?

Ridan-FOLO composters are innovative and eco-friendly composting machines designed to efficiently turn organic waste into high-quality compost. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, from households to commercial establishments, helping you reduce waste and contribute to a sustainable environment. We are a licensed manufacturer of the Ridan from Ridan UK.

How does the Ridan-FOLO composter work?

The Ridan-FOLO composter uses a unique and low-energy process called aerobic composting. As the compostable materials are loaded into the composter, the microorganisms break down the waste aerobically, meaning they require oxygen. The continuous rotation of the composting drum facilitates the composting process by providing the right amount of oxygen and ensuring thorough mixing, resulting in faster and more efficient decomposition.

What can I compost in a Ridan-FOLO composter?

What can be added to a composter?

Any form of bio-degradable material. This includes all food stuff whether raw or cooked.

You can also add green waste from the garden, but the vitally important thing is to add an equal amount of carbon (wood) and nitrogen (food waste / green waste).

What is the best wood additive to use?

Wood pellets are easy and they make great compost, you only need to add a quarter as much by volume. 

Sawdust, wood shavings and wood chip all work really well as long as they are clean, fresh and dry. These are often available for free as a waste product. They must be added in equal amounts to the food waste by volume.
Larger wood chips will take longer to break down than the food waste, so the compost can be coarse.

I have free shredded wood waste on site, is it suitable as the wood additive?

Yes it will work very well, just ensure that the shredded wood or wood chip is either used fresh or dry stored. If left out in the rain it will become wet, rot and then won’t be any good.

The best wood additive is dry wood chip, sawdust, wood shavings or wood pellets. These work fantastically.

Can dead leaves be used as a carbon source rather than wood?

Dead leaves have very little to offer the composting process.

Dead leaves can be added to the Compost Box, but only to help build the structure of the compost, they will not help with the composting process, so don’t add too much.

Can straw be used as a carbon source for composting instead of wood?

No, Straw has the same qualities as dead leaves as described above.

Can I compost paper, card and tissue?

Yes, paper, card, tissue, and other paper products contain adhesives and china clay which will break down slowly, especially when damp. So tear or shred them small, then layer them into the maturation box, or the Ridan Compost Box and leave them for a minimum of two months, preferably much longer.

Can compostable bags and tableware be composted?

Yes, but compostable bags and tableware break down slowly and they don’t add anything to the hot composting process. It is better to compost them in the maturation boxes by layering them into the mix.

If your food waste is in compostable bags, either empty the contents into the Ridan-FOLO, or tear it before loading as the bag will take more time to break down, thereby preventing the food inside from composting.

How long does it take to produce compost with a Ridan-FOLO composter?

The composting time can vary depending on the type of materials, environmental factors, and the model of the Ridan-FOLO composter. Compost will exit the ridan composter with 8-14 days but it will be stored in the maturation box to mature. Generally, the compost can be ready in as little as 8 to 12 weeks, but some materials may take longer. Continuous feeding of new waste can also allow for a constant supply of compost.

Do I need to add accelerators or additives to the composting process?

Ridan-FOLO composters are designed to work efficiently without the need for additives. However, using compost accelerators or compost activators can speed up the decomposition process and help produce compost more quickly, especially in colder climates or with certain types of materials.

Is the compost produced by the Ridan-FOLO composter safe to use?

Yes, the compost produced by the Ridan-FOLO composter is safe and rich in nutrients, making it an excellent soil conditioner. The compost is free from harmful pathogens and can be used to enhance plant growth in gardens, farms, and landscaping.

What are the benefits of using a Ridan-FOLO composter?

Using a Ridan-FOLO composter offers numerous benefits, such as:

  • Reducing organic waste going to landfills, contributing to environmental sustainability.
  • Producing nutrient-rich compost to improve soil health and fertility.
  • Saving money on waste disposal fees and reducing waste management costs.
  • Lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with organic waste decomposition in landfills.
Is the Ridan-FOLO composter easy to maintain?

Yes, Ridan-FOLO composters are designed to be low-maintenance and user-friendly. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the composting drum, ensuring proper aeration, and maintaining the correct moisture level will ensure the composter functions optimally.

What sizes are available for Ridan-FOLO composters?

Ridan-FOLO offers composters in various sizes to suit different needs, from small-scale models suitable for households to larger units for commercial and community use. Check our product catalog or contact our customer support team to find the right size for you.

Is there a warranty for Ridan-FOLO composters?

Yes, all Ridan-FOLO composters come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty. The length of the warranty may vary depending on the model and location. Please refer to the product documentation or contact our customer support for specific warranty details.