Help & Tips
Everything you need to get the most from your Jora Compost Tumbler — from fixing common problems to expert composting advice.
Common problems,
quick fixes
Refer to this guide for answers to the most common issues that can occur during composting. Most problems have a simple solution!
Still need help?
Our team is happy to answer any questions about your Jora Composter — reach out anytime.
| # | Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Weak heat / No heat |
Too dry Too wet Winter wind chill |
|
| 02 | Maggots | Too wet / weak heat |
|
| 03 | Mushrooms | Natural occurrence |
|
| 04 | Big lumps | Too wet |
|
| 05 | Ammonia smell | Intensive process / high pH |
|
| 06 | Rotting smell |
Too wet Too little material |
|
| 07 | Pungent / acidic smell |
Not enough oxygen Too wet New chamber cycle |
|
Get the best results
from your Jora
Follow these tips to maximise the efficiency of your Jora Compost Tumbler and produce rich, high-quality compost.
Kitchen Waste
For best results, add kitchen waste on a continuous basis in small quantities — every day or two. Do not add large quantities of waste at once.
Chop waste into small pieces before adding to greatly reduce decomposition time. The more conscientiously you cut and mix, the more volume the unit can handle.
Only add what you're certain is compostable. If in doubt, leave it out — especially if you plan to use the compost on vegetables.
Placement & Accessories
Place your composter close to your kitchen for convenience. Always position it on a hard surface — concrete, slabs, or planks — to prevent sinking as it fills up.
Keep a covered bin nearby for sawdust and/or wood pellets — they must stay dry to be effective. Place a tray underneath the composter to catch any liquid drips.
Winter Start-Up & Other Tips
If starting your Jora during winter — especially with small quantities of waste — add some hot water to the first chamber. This helps generate the initial heat build-up needed to get the process going.
Thanks to the high temperatures inside the unit, waste is so thoroughly composted it can be applied directly to the garden as a mulch or soil improver.
Avoid Fuss & Mess
Check air vents regularly to ensure holes are clear of compost mixture — blocked vents reduce oxygen flow and slow the process.
Always drain excess liquid from kitchen waste before adding it — too much moisture causes odour and slows decomposition.
Rotate the tumbler every time you add waste so oxygen flows continuously through the mixture, preventing it from rotting.