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Compactors are a great investment because they compress trash for easier disposal. The simple way of describing what it does is that it places trash in a compartment and forces all the air out, thus compressing it into a shape that is easy to manage.

Though a Trash compactor is an excellent piece of equipment, it is not indestructible and is vulnerable to faults. There are a few things that you can do to check if the trash compactor needs repair. Doing this regularly is important for your own safety as well as to prevent further damage to the machine.

How to Identify if Your Trash Compactor Has a Problem?

There are a number of things that can go wrong with trash compactors, with common faults that range from failed switches and sprockets to stuck power nuts and bearings. It is typically easy to diagnose and fix these issues, but there are a few things you need to do in order to find out what the problem is.

Here are the steps you should follow:

  • If the compactor has a faulty start, then test the top limit or the motor. If the motor is fine but the ram is not active, you likely have a faulty drive gear.
  • If the trash compactor makes unusually loud noises, then there is a chance that the lubrication is low.
  • If the compactor works well, but the garbage is not properly compressed, then it means there is debris somewhere in the machinery or the hydraulic ram is stuck.

How to repair Trash Compactor?

There are a few simple steps that you can take to repair your trash compactor. This can make it easier for you to understand and fix issues on your own, rather than having to call someone in to do it unless the problem is extremely challenging.

Here’s what to do:

  • Turn the Power Off –

    The first thing you need to do is to make sure that the power is turned off, by unplugging it, turning off the breaker, or removing the fuse from the service panel. This is not only for your safety but also safeguards the machine.

  • Remove the Compactor –

    Removing the compactor from inside the machine can be done by unscrewing it from beneath the counter. It would be a good idea to place a protective covering on the floor to prevent damage while you do this.

  • Check out the Belt and Chain –

    By removing the cover plate that is either on the top or bottom of the compactor, you can see if there is a problem with the belt or drive chain within it.

  • Fixing the Chain Tension –

    If the chain is slack, it means the tension is too low. Loosen the motor mount bolts, and then move the motor away from the sprockets and tighten the bolts. Keep doing this until the tension is just right.

  • Replace Broken Chains –

    There are many things that can go wrong with the chain, from simple jamming to breaking in places. Simply remove the motor mount from the sprockets, replace the chain and adjust it until it is properly tense.

It would be a good idea to check your compactor every now and then even if there aren’t any problems. There is nothing that helps machinery more than a regular checkup and caring for the gear inside! Here is a short maintenance checklist to start with:

Here is a trash compactor preventative maintenance checklist:

  • When you newly acquired your trash compactor, it is extremely important to inspect all the nuts and bolts during the first week of use. After the first week, you can change the frequency of said inspection to a bi-monthly basis.
  • Remember to grease the lower door hinges and lock assembly on a monthly basis. This can be done with a needlepoint grease gun for precision.
  • Regularly check for signs of metal weakening. If weak metals are found on time and corrective measures are taken, it will end up in a lot of money saved.

Tip 1:

During the bi-monthly inspections, always check the hydraulic oil reservoir to ensure the proper oil level when the cylinder is fully retracted. Be sure to use high-quality hydraulic oil for optimum output.

Tip 2:

The filter of the hydraulic system must be inspected and checked every 3-6 months in order to ascertain whether it must be replaced with a new one.

Tip 3:

Change the oil filter after the first 50 hours of operation and every 250 hours thereafter. Modify this schedule if the compactor operates in hot, dusty conditions.

Tip 4:

Drain and refill the reservoir annually with high-quality all-weather hydraulic fluid equal.

Tip 5:

Check all hoses and connections for leakage or wear and replace them if necessary.

  • Always ensure the power unit is kept clean and free of debris at all times. This must be done to ensure clean airflow around the unit. Check for grease, dust, and dirt on the outside of the control box.
  • Call a professional to inspect the machine bi-annually for an inspection to gauge the overall health of the machinery.

Tip 6:

Have the electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician since that is a crucial part of how machines operate. Also, make sure that the piping for the wiring is inspected regularly.

Tip 7:

Additionally, the motor amp draw should be checked regularly. Recording successive readings help prevent failures in the future.

Tip 8:

Keep a check on what is being put into your trash compactor. There are certain things that damage your trash compactors

A lot of organizations have also started investing in Preventative Maintenance programs to ensure the smooth functioning of the compactor. This ensures compliance with government and industry-recommended safety standards such as OSHA and ANSI standards. Hence, if the above-mentioned checks and procedures are carried out with due diligence, your trash compactor should be up and running for a long time.