Question 1

fruit flies

Accepted Answer

We don't have fruit flies, but BRILLIANT idea to insert a round (12-cup size) drip coffee paper filter into the top above the filter. I'm doing that... just in case. With the paper coffee filter, flies can't pass through the paper to get to the carbon filter with all of its nooks & cranniess. Also, if you have a fly problem with this can: 1) definitely suggest emptying the can each week, or even more frequently; 2) You have flies in the house; need to get those window screens repaired.

Question 2

will the scraps actually compost in this or must they be moved to a regular compost bin?

Accepted Answer

Folks, you must really stop and think.  IF you know nothing of composting, read up on it!  You use food scraps to put in your COMPOSTER in your YARD.  This BIN, is used to temporarily store the food scraps until you have enough to take to the composter. where the food scraps break down, compost and turn into dirt.  it is magical and you can even stand and watch it happen.  However, you might well wear out waiting for it to happen.  IF you have a tumbler composter, you can turn food scraps into dirt in 2 weeks otherwise, it will take much longer but the rewards are great.  Before composting, we were buying potting soil for the garden to plant the veggies and flowers into.   Now, with compost, we only occasionally will purchase fertilizer but stick pretty much to the compost.  I am using right now 7 different bins for composting and turn it out rapidly.  If you read up on it, you can actually learn and then you will not need to ask some of the questions I have seen in here.
  Good luck!

Question 3

how do you change the charcoal filter

Accepted Answer

I have found two methods that work for me: 1. finger pinch - usually works for the first filter, but not so well for the second and 2. (my favorite) thick end of a chopstick or a thick bar stir stick. I always have a few chopsticks sets laying around and I found that thicker end will not poke a hole in your filters. Just push it through one of the top holes and it will push both filters far enough out so that you can grab them with your hands.  For the hot second of annoyance that you might feel about needing extra equipment, it is so worth it! The double filter is a life and nose saver. Trust me! On a side note: I recommend that you pick up a extra set of round filters for every square/circle replacement pack you buy. The bottom (round filter) will need to be replaced more often then the top (square) filter. If the bottom filter gets wet accidentally (usually happens when I over fill the bin), it will mold and FAST. Top filter stays pretty dry, so you will not have to change it as often. Hope this helps and happy composting!

Question 4

What number filter does this take?

Accepted Answer

I bought mine replacement filetr for $3.80 from OurCrazyDeals - Filter 93F

ASIN	B00AMNCYNQ
Brand	Epica
Brand Name	Epica
Capacity	1.3 Gallons
Color	Silver
Customer Reviews	4.6 out of 5 stars 18,344 Your Review
Item Dimensions L x W x H	18.2L x 18.2W x 27.9H cm
Item Weight	0.01 Ounces
Manufacturer	Epica
Material	18/8 steel
Material Type	18/8 steel
Product Dimensions	18.2L x 18.2W x 27.9H cm
Shape	Cylindrical
UPC	885465843900

Epica Garbage Composter, Stainless Steel, 1.3 Gallon, with Activated Carbon Filter

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