How to Fix a Trash Compactor

If your trash compactor's motor is working but the machine won't flatten your trash, you could have a broken or stretched drive chain or drive belt. Tightening the belt or replacing it is a snap.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement Drive Belt Or Drive Chain
• Nut Driver And Socket
• Screwdriver
• Socket Wrench And Socket

1. Unscrew the compactor from your kitchen counter, using a screwdriver.

2. Lay the unit on its side and locate the drive chain or belt. It will be under a cover plate on the top or bottom of the machine.

3. Remove the cover plate, using a nut driver and socket. You'll see the drive gear, one or more power screw sprockets, and a drive chain or drive belt.

4. Inspect the chain or belt. If it appears slack, you just need to increase the tension as explained in step 7. If it's broken, buy a replacement at an appliance store, then go on to step 5.

5. 

   Loosen the motor mount bolts, using a socket wrench and socket (see A). Then push the mount toward the power screw sprocket(s). This will make it easier to fit the new chain or belt in place.

6. 

   Slip the chain or belt over the sprockets (see B). On trash compactors with two power screws, you may have to unbolt the power screws from the frame and slide them out of the unit a bit to install the chain or belt.

7. Push the motor mount away from the power screw sprocket(s) to increase the tension on the drive chain or belt. Tighten the motor mount bolts and check the tension. You should have no more than 1/2 inch (12 mm) of flex. Loosen the bolts and increase the tension again if necessary.

8. Reinstall the cover plate, and screw the compactor to the counter.

Tips & Warnings

• A drive chain or belt that's extremely loose can spin and damage gears and sprockets. Check the tension on your belt or chain yearly.
• If your compactor won't run at all, the drive motor or drawer safety switch may be bad. Call a professional to check and replace them.
• Always unplug your trash compactor before working on it.

[vestine]

on 12/5/2008 trash compactor will not shut off by itself

[vestine]

on 12/5/2008 trash compactor will not shut off by itself