Trash Compactor Problems Why it Does Not Work

Trash compactors can be a very nice feature and addition to your kitchen. However they can also be very hard to work on if they go bad. There are 20 some brands of trash compactors available, but the KitchenAid trash compactor is one of the most common.

If your trash compactor does not work at all here are some things that you will need to check.
First off make sure that you are getting power to the unit. Many are plug into by code a GFCI wall socket. These outlets do a great job of protecting against shock, but do a terrible job of staying on, especially when used on a motor that pulls a high amount of current when starting. It is not uncommon for them to go bad and trip for no reason at all after a few years. If the outlet is tripped, try to reset it by pushing in hard on the reset button in the center of the outlet.

If you have power at the outlet, then you will need to check through the circuit in the compactor. This can include a door switch, micro switches that sense the position of the ram, and possibly a key switch. Make sure that there is nothing stuck behind the drawer that would keep it from going fully shut. Check the position of the ram to see if it has returned all the way up.

If your ram is stuck down or if it will not go down, check for broken drive gears, belt, of chain. Make sure also that the switches that sense the ram position have not move and come out of place.

Your trash compactor will also need to be clean periodically. Food spilling on the tracks or glides can cause the drawer to slide hard or even become stuck. Clean all the slides or glides, wheels tracks and such with warm damp cloth and the re oil everything with a household lubricant. With time and use the wheels and bearings may also need to be replaced to keep your trash compactor operating well.