There's a lot of air in trash. Empty cans, milk cartons, and other containers were once filled with product and now they're empty. It's a sin to send them to the dump like that where they take up landfill space. Better to compact trash and recyclables using a trash compactor. Of course, it's one more gadget that sometimes needs fixing, but if you're a member of the Fix-It Club, you're not worried.

How Does It Work?

Components of a typical trash compactor.

A trash compactor is a device that compresses trash and recyclables into small, tight bundles for easy disposal. Items are placed in the compactor, the drawer is closed, and the switch turned on. Inside, an electric or hydraulic ram inside the unit moves downward until it forces the air out of the trash, compacting it. The ram then reverses direction so you can remove the bundle for disposal. Internal switches turn the ram on and off as needed.

What Can Go Wrong?

Most common trash compactor problems include failed switches and worn sprockets, chain, roller bearings, and power nuts. The motor can burn out. Debris can become stuck inside and limit movement.

Caution!

Never put aerosol cans or flammable items in the trash compactor!