Trash Compactor Tips For Your Home

Written on: April 20, 2020

The last thing your family needs while sheltering is a trash compactor that smells or breaks down. Here are a few tips to help you efficiently and safely use your trash compactor and avoid problems down the road.

What to put in your trash compactor

Trash compactors can handle a variety of materials, but they aren’t equipped to handle everything.
Most trash compactors, for example, can compress plastic bottles and containers, cardboard boxes, and waxed cartons; some have strong enough gears to crush glass – although this is not advisable, considering it can be a safety hazard (and most glass is recyclable). Check with your trash compactor’s manufacturer to learn more about the approved trash for your appliance.
In general, it is never advisable to throw the following items in your trash compactor if you want to avoid leaks, jammed motors, fires, and other hazards:

Things you should not put into your trash compactor

• Oils and grease
• Pasta and rice
• Coffee grounds
• Bones
• Fibrous vegetables (celery, pumpkin, etc.)
• Wood products or wooden materials
• Aerosol or pressurized cans
• Toxic chemicals
• Harsh cleaning agents
• Batteries
• Electronic items
• Recently lit candles, cigarette butts, incense sticks, and other burnable items

Cleaning your compactor regularly

If your trash compactor smells bad, it’s probably because bacteria and other nasty microorganisms have formed inside the appliance. Clean your trash compactor regularly, following these steps:
Reduce odors and cleaning times by never throwing meat, poultry waste, onions, dirt, or pet waste into your trash compactor.

• Remove the inner bag and bin.
• Use a wet-dry vacuum to pull out loose debris from inside the compactor cabinet.
• Use a wet sponge or cloth with warm, soapy water to scrub the inside and outside surfaces of the trash compactor.
• Scrub the compactor bin, the ram (part that presses down trash), and other components of the appliance, being careful not to get any of the electrical components or controls wet.
• Rinse soap off the inside and outside of the trash compactor with a damp cloth.
• Apply antibacterial spray cleaner to the bin and the inside cabinet of the trash compactor.
• Check any charcoal filters or other odor-control devices.
• Let the inside of the compactor air-dry before replacing the bag and closing the unit.

Repair or replace a broken compactor quickly

Always call an appliance professional for routine maintenance or repairs on your trash compactor. Trash compactors have important safety features that should be inspected regularly to ensure the appliances are safe. Contact a pro if your compactor:

• Won’t start with safety key
• Drawer or door jams, sticks, or won’t close completely
• Makes unusual noises
• Does not flatten trash properly
• Emits burning smell when operating

Stop using your trash compactor if you experience any of the above issues with your compactor.
Need trash compactor installation in PA? We can help. Contact us today to learn about trash compactor options from Ace-Robbins for your Pennsylvania home.
Please note: At Ace-Robbins, your safety and comfort are always our priority. Please see our COVID-19 Service Update Page to learn more about how we are working to keep your family and our crews safe and your home comfort systems and appliances working through this challenging time.