How do trash compactors work and where can I get replacement parts? Manufacturers carry both parts and complete trash compactors. In order to repair or maintain a trash compactor you need to know how they...
In order to repair or maintain a trash compactor you need to know how they work. Most trash compactors are powered by a motor that forces a steel ram into a metal basket where garbage is crushed into a flat mass. The motor, when switched on, powers a gear or pulley system, which lowers the steel ram. These rams come in different forces from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds, which determines the level of compaction. On average trash compactors reduce the volume of garbage by 75%.
Most household garbage can be placed in a trash compactor safely, but the following items are exceptions: aerosol cans, anything explosive or flammable, oily rags, and anything poisonous. When crushing glass you should be aware that splinters may poke through the bag, and gloves should be worn when removing the bag. You should always carry a bag by the top and away from your body or inside a bag caddy, which is available as an accessory with most compactor models. For added safety children should be kept away from trash compactors and warned of their dangers.
Routine maintenance of your trash compactor includes cleaning. As safety precautions you should unplug the unit and wear gloves while cleaning the inside of a trash compactor. Following the manufacturer's instructions you will remove the bag and bin so that you can vacuum and wipe down the inside walls of the compactor with soapy water. Once the cleaned surfaces have dried you can replace the bin or drawer and insert a new bag.
You will have to replace the bag in your trash compactor with each use. You can purchase bags made specifically for your model by the manufacturer or purchase universal bags. Size is the most important factor in choosing replacement bags. The wrong size bag will cause your compactor to malfunction or not work optimally. Bags can cost anywhere from $10 for a pack of 12 to $60 for a pack of 48 depending on brand. One thing to consider when choosing a trash compactor is how convenient it will be to obtain replacement bags. Most households will use an average of one bag per week.
Other maintenance involves making sure the trash compactor's odor elimination system is working properly. The majority of trash compactors are fitted with a charcoal filter, which may need to be replaced occasionally or cleaned. You can also purchase special deodorizers that stick to the walls of the unit if you need additional odor protection.
As far as repairs to your trash compactor, there are a number of things that can go wrong, but trash compactors are fairly simple appliances. Repairclinic.com is one good source for information about what may be wrong with your trash compactor and how to fix it. Most often malfunctions occur because a gear or motor wears out.
Expert John Hartman of R & I Enterprises says, "We carry both parts and complete units. Most of time it's a motor or some mechanical gearing that goes bad on the units. We sell motors, but at some point it becomes more cost effective to just buy a new compactor versus the replacement of some of the motors. Besides the usage of bags, the motor, the gears, and occasionally the door latches that go bad, we have really good longevity with these (Broan/Nutone) compactors. Broan also makes trash compactors for other manufacturers like Whirlpool, Maytag and some other well known home appliance brands."
