Things That Can Go Wrong With Your Trash Compactor

Posted on: 17 October 2019

A trash compactor is a useful kitchen appliance when you have a large family or generate a lot of trash and have a hard time fitting it all in your curbside can. The compactor presses trash together so you have less to throw out, and because it works hard, a compactor can experience problems with worn parts occasionally. When a trash compactor develops problems, you'll often start hearing unusual noises. That could be a sign it's time to call an appliance repair service. Here are some things that might be wrong with your compactor.

The Compactor Doesn't Turn On

If your trash compactor doesn't work at all, be sure to check the power before you call an appliance repair professional. Make sure the unit is plugged in and that the circuit hasn't tripped. Also, if the compactor is plugged into a GFCI outlet, test and reset the outlet to make sure it has power. If the compactor seems to be getting power, then the problem may be with the internal wiring or a switch. The repair person can open up the compactor and test the parts with a multi-meter. You may need to have a switch replaced.

The Trash Compactor Makes Weird Noises

If your compactor starts making unusual noises, that could be a sign of worn parts that are failing. You should call for repairs before your compactor stops working completely. If the unit seems to be straining or if the noises are very loud, hold off using it until a repair professional checks out the parts. Some of the parts, such as nuts and gears, are made of plastic. The plastic can break or wear down, and that's when unusual noises start up. The worn-down parts can affect the motor or drive gear and interfere with a smooth operation of your compactor. Your compactor may get stuck, and then you'll need repairs to get it working again.

The Trash Compactor Won't Keep Running

Worn parts and bad switches can keep your trash compactor from completing a full cycle. The appliance may keep shutting down due to problems with a switch, or the ram may not reverse directions. It's also possible your compactor will work fine in some modes but not others. The repair person will need to check for broken or damaged parts as well as test for electrical continuity in the switches. Replacing worn parts should help, and lubricating and servicing the rest of the compactor at the same time will help keep your appliance working smoothly once repairs are done. 

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