How to safely use a household trash compactor

The first trash compactor created in 1941 was used for crushing tin cans. It has come a long way since then. In 1991 a new design was added with separate compartments for recyclable and non-recyclable waste. Nowadays, trash compactors are equipped with features such as odor control, dry and wet food management, filters, and bigger storage space.

How Do Home Trash Compactors work?

A trash compactor is usually installed in your kitchen. It looks like a regular trash can, but it is equipped with a hydraulic-powered metal ram capable of compressing waste into a small dense pack. Once the garbage is compacted, it can be easier to dispose of. Although trash compactors are powerful, they are made of simple components: a metal ram, a waste bin, and an electrical switch. Their functioning is also simple. Once your garbage bin is full, you must close the trash compactor top and turn it on. Modern trash compactors count on safety features like an alarm informing you of any malfunction or incorrect garbage loading.

Pros and Cons of Trash Compactors

Throughout the years, trash compactors had fallen out of fashion, dropping significantly in sales numbers. However, some advocate for its use while others see them as not too convenient kitchen appliances. Let's see some of the pros and cons of having a trash compactor nowadays:

Advantages of Trash Compactors

Some of the pros of having a trash compactor in your home are:

• Friendly to the environment. By compacting trash, you lower your household's environmental impact at government dumps and landfills.
• It is convenient When garbage gets compacted, it takes up less space, and there is no need to be emptied as frequently. It will save you a few trips of taking your garbage outside at night. Also, you would use fewer traditional garbage bags and curbside trash cans.
• Promotes better recycling Since recycling is crucial to reduce waste, trash compactors can make the process more efficient. You can use your trash compactor for recyclable items such as cans, plastic bottles/containers, and boxes.
• Saves kitchen space Like your dishwasher or stovetop, your trash compactor can fit underneath your kitchen countertop. It saves space, especially in small kitchens where every usable space matters
• Saves money When your trash gets compacted, it can save you many trash collection fees. Remember, the most garbage bins you use, the more fees you pay.

Trash Compactors Drawbacks

Although they are many advantages linked to the use of trash compactors, there are some cons to them, too, such as:

• It can break down Like any other of your home appliances, trash compactors can fail with time and be overused. Consequently, a repair may be needed at some point in its lifetime.
• Unpleasant smell As garbage stays longer in the trash compactor, it can result in the development of foul odors. However, this can be fixed by spraying the container with some disinfectant or by disposing of the garbage. Also, some newer trash compactors models are now equipped with charcoal filters that help keep bad odors in control.
• Uses special trash bags Regular trash bags are not suitable for the amount of pressure your trash compactor uses. Therefore, special trash bags are needed. They are specifically designed for your trash compactor model and size, resulting in an extra cost.
• Trash may be heavier It is essential to keep in mind that compacted garbage is heavier and more challenging to lift. If your kids are responsible for garbage chores, consider helping them or designating an adult for the task.
• Service extra cost Your trash compactor can malfunction at some point, like any other kitchen appliance. Strange noises, inadequate compaction, or a jammed compactor door indicate that your trash compactor needs to be serviced by a specialized technician.

Types of Trash Compactors

To get the most benefit out of your trash compactor, you need to pick the one that best fits your specific needs. Thus, you should know the various trash compactors you can choose from. Here they are:

Under-counter trash compactor

In most kitchens, an integrated trash compactor is usually installed between two low cabinets, much like a dishwasher. They come in a standard cabinet size, allowing you to replace any cabinet with your trash compactor. Note that they have unfinished tops, which require professional installation. Some compactors can be customized to blend in with your kitchen by adding your own panel.

Portable (Convertible) Trash Compactor

Convertible or portable trash compactors can be used as freestanding or installed underneath your kitchen counter. Portable trash compactors can be adapted into built-in appliances, such as in a kitchen renovation project.

Freestanding Trash Compactors

If the thought of adding a trash compactor came to you after your kitchen layout was set and done, a freestanding trash compactor is your ideal solution. Freestanding trash compactors can be installed anywhere you have space in your kitchen. You only need a plug socket nearby. Furthermore, you can use the top of your freestanding trash compactor as an extra working surface.

How to Properly Use a Trash Compactor?

Using your trash compactor adequately will help extend its useful life and prevent safety hazards. Although trash compactors are strong enough to crush glass, you should think twice before introducing glass materials. Glass fragments inside the compactor bag can cause cuts and injuries to those handling your garbage.

Your trash compactor can manage to reduce a variety of waste materials, such as:

• Cardboard boxes
• Plastic bottles and containers
• Waxed cartons

However, if you want to avoid costly repairs due to a jammed motor, fire, leaks, or any other issue, you must prevent putting the following into your trash compactor

• Wooden materials
• Batteries
• Pressurized cans
• Oils and grease
• Toxic chemical products
• Electronic components
• CDs or tapes
• Harmful cleaning products

Additionally, you should be careful not to throw any candles, cigarette butts, or incense sticks that have not completely burned off and cooled down.

Trash Compactor Cleaning and Maintenance

Like any other appliance in your home, your trash compactor should be cleaned and maintained regularly to perform its duties optimally. Hence, you should clean your trash compactor by following these steps:

• Unplug your trash compactor from the power outlet, take the garbage bag out, and dispose of it properly.
• Check for any leftover food or residue that may be inside your compactor and remove it. Use a vacuum if needed.
• Fill a spray bottle with dish soap and warm water. Proceed to spray the inside walls and floor of the compactor. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a rough sponge or cloth.
• Clean the tracks and rollers with a soapy cloth or a degreaser if required. Also, apply lubricant to this part if necessary. They will operate smoothly if adequately lubricated.
• Before whipping down the control panel, ensure the power is off. Clean carefully between the spaces.
• Let it dry completely; you can also use a cloth to make sure it is sufficiently dry. This step will prevent any bacteria growth or unpleasant odors. If your compactor has a filter to replace it, you can also sprinkle some baking soda to avoid bad smells.
• Finally, replace the garbage bag and plug it in. Now your trash compactor is ready to be used again.