The Ultimate Guide to Using a Trash Compactor

While trash compactors aren't a fixture in every home, they can make life a lot easier for homeowners and benefit the environment. If you're lucky enough to have one or are ready to buy one, you'll want to know how to use and take care of it.

In this guide, we'll go over how to choose a trash compactor and offer tips on using one. We'll also explore best practices for trash compactor maintenance to keep it a valuable fixture in your kitchen and provide you with troubleshooting solutions to issues you may have down the line.

How Trash Compactors Work

Kitchen trash compactors, which have been used since the 1970s, are designed to compress, reduce, and compact garbage through hydraulic, mechanical, or pneumatic force. You place garbage in the appliance, turn it on, and the compactor's power screw moves the ram (a large metal block) downward to compress the trash inside. Eventually, the garbage becomes compacted to the point that it can no longer safely be compressed. The unit then lets you know you can open the drawer and remove the garbage bag. It's that simple!

Benefits of a Trash Compactor

Many American households use around 25 trash bags a month. Using kitchen trash compactors can reduce this number significantly. Because these devices help fit more garbage in a single bag, they not only help you reduce the volume of trash but also the number of bags you use every week. Reducing your need for trash collection also reduces the environmental impact of garbage trucks on the road.

The benefits of a trash compactor also extend to your daily routine. Trash compactors typically block the smell of garbage better than plastic or rubber cans, leaving your kitchen smelling fresher. Because compactors are enclosed, they can also prevent pets from getting into garbage and eating something that could make them sick. With a compactor, you'll be surprised at how much less often you'll have to make trips outside to the garbage cans; good news if you've ever stumbled in the dark with hands full of trash bags. Finally, since trash compactors let you use fewer bags, you may save money on these household essentials.

How to Choose a Trash Compactor

Selecting a trash compactor for your home can be fairly simple, as there's not a whole lot of variety when it comes to these kitchen appliances. There are two main types of trash compactors: free-standing and built-in. Free-standing units can be a good choice for homeowners who have ample space, saving them the trouble of having to install a trash compactor. On the other hand, some homeowners find a free-standing appliance in their kitchen an inconvenience or aesthetically unappealing, in which case a built-in trash compactor might be a better choice.

Once you've decided whether to purchase a built-in or freestanding model, you'll need to consider what compaction ratio and horsepower are a good fit for your household. The compaction ratio is the number of truckloads it would take to deliver a set amount of loose trash to the dump compared to how many truckloads it would take to deliver the same amount if it were compacted. This can be important for homeowners who want trash compactors for their environmental benefits. Most standard types of trash compactors have a 4:1 ratio, but you can also select either a 2:1 or 5:1 model.

From least to most powerful, trash compactors come in 1/3-, 1/2-, and 3/4-horsepower varieties. This determines the power of the motor, and while more powerful is typically ideal, some homeowners may not have the amount or type of garbage that requires so much power.

Trash Compactor Safety

Before walking you through how to use a trash compactor, there are some important safety concerns we'll address. After all, even though they're used in households around the world, these appliances are heavy machinery that can cause serious injury if used improperly.

First, never leave the door on your trash compactor open while the unit is running. Most compactors have safety features that won't allow you to run the appliance if the door is open. Second, never reach into the compactor to clear obstructions or rearrange garbage—even if it's not running or powered off. Always use a tool like a rod or a pole to do this. When you're cleaning your compactor, be sure to unplug it first. Lastly, never place things like aerosol cans, batteries, chemicals, food waste, glass, metallic items (except aluminum cans), or combustible items into the trash compactor.

If you have children in your home, be sure to teach them about trash compactor safety and, depending on their age, how to properly operate the appliance, even if you don't allow them to use it themselves. This can help prevent them from curiously exploring this kitchen appliance and hurting themselves. Also, if you have pets like smaller cats, dogs, ferrets, lizards, or other animals that could sneak their way into the compactor, be sure to keep a careful eye on them and look in the compactor before turning it on.

How to Use a Trash Compactor

Each brand and model of trash compactor works a little differently, so be sure to review the owner's manual before using it for the first time. Generally, all you'll need to do is place garbage in the bin, close the door, turn the compactor on, and, when the trash bag in the bin is full, remove it and carry it out to the garbage. However, there are a few best practices to help keep your appliance cleaner and working at full capacity.

• Place larger, bulkier items in the center of the bin to ensure even compacting.
• Try to place aluminum cans and plastic bottles on their sides.
• Don't overload the bin. Some owners' manuals advise waiting until the trash reaches the top of the bin before turning the trash compactor on, while others may recommend compacting when the bin is half full.
• Drain any liquids from recyclables. Sticky liquids and even water can damage your compactor.
• Lock this appliance when it's not in use and keep the door closed when operating it. If you have small children, consider purchasing a lock for the compactor and keep the key out of their reach.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can prevent straining the motor or damaging the ram of your kitchen trash compactor. However, regular maintenance is also crucial to extending its life.

Trash Compactor Maintenance

Here are some routine tasks you can perform to keep your trash compactor in good working order:

• Use WD-40 or another lubricant on the door and bin hinges to keep them moving properly.
• Check hydraulic oil levels every few weeks. When necessary, refill the oil to ensure the motor is working properly. Also, check your oil filter every few months. Consult the manufacturer's manual that came with your appliance for instructions and tips.
• Schedule yearly maintenance with a professional technician. They're equipped to identify small issues that can turn into bigger problems.
• These units are some of the most overlooked things in your home that need cleaning. If your built-in trash compactor has a self-cleaning cycle, run it according to the recommendations in your owner's manual. If not, unplug your compactor, remove the bag, spray down the walls and bin with an antibacterial disinfectant (or a mixture of warm water and dish soap), wipe down the interior, and let it dry thoroughly.

Troubleshooting Trash Compactors

Just like performing trash compactor maintenance, identifying the most minor issues with your appliance can be simple. However, the possible solutions provided below to the list of compactor problems can range from things you can do at home to repairs that a technician will need to make.

Problem: The trash compactor won't power on.

Solutions:

• Reset the circuit assigned to the appliance.
• Check the start switch.
• Check the power cord and outlet used for the compactor.
• Check for electric continuity in the centrifugal and directional switches.

Problem: The trash compactor powers on but won’t start.

Solutions: 

• If your unit's start switch is in the bin release pedal, make sure it's aligned properly.
• Check the drive motor for burnout.

Problem: The trash compactor makes weird noises.

Solutions:

• Check and replace the drive gear.
• Check and replace the motor gear.
• Check and replace the motor chain.
• Check the ram for warping or misalignment.
• Tighten the power nuts and check for damage.
• Tighten any loose screws or nuts.

Problem: The drawer or door won't open or fully close.

Solutions:

• Inspect the foot pedal for damage or loose screws (if your model has one).
• Check the track wheels for damage or warping.
• Check for garbage or debris in the track.

Problem: The trash compactor runs but garbage isn't compacted.

Solutions:

• Replace the drive gear.
• Replace the motor change.
• Tighten the power nuts and check for damage.
• Check the directional switch for damage.

Problem: The trash compactor won't finish a full cycle.

Solutions:

• Check for an off-balance load and reset the compactor.
• Test the cycle selector switch.
• Check the top limit switch.

Getting Help When Your Trash Compactor Breaks

If you're not very knowledgeable about mechanical repairs, don't worry; most homeowners need a little help when it comes to fixing problems with complex machinery like kitchen trash compactors. With a home warranty, you won't need to worry about disassembling this appliance and using a flashlight to inspect all its working parts. You can call us to schedule a prescreened technician to visit your home when it's convenient and the technician can identify the problem and deal with covered repairs or replacements. Get a free quote right now to find out how a home warranty with First American can help you deal with a broken trash compactor and more.

The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.

Please be aware that if you disassemble a covered system or item, it can invalidate your home warranty or manufacturer's warranty.