How often should I clean the ram and the chamber walls?

Every few months. Clean the ram and the chamber walls. Packed-on gunk is what makes them smell and what jams the ram.

How often should I check the drive chain or screw for slack if the ram is slowing down?

Every few months. Check the drive chain or screw for slack if the ram is slowing down.

How often should I replace the deodorizer or charcoal filter instead of covering up the smell?

As needed. Replace the deodorizer or charcoal filter instead of covering up the smell.

Trash Compactor Maintenance & Repair Tips

What usually fails on a trash compactor here

Compactors are simple, and the failures are mechanical: the drive belt, the chain, or the directional switch. A ram (the plate that presses the trash down) stuck partway is usually something wedged beside it, not a failed motor. Parts are getting harder to find for older units, so age matters more with these than with anything else in the kitchen.

Check this first — about two minutes

Do this before you pay anyone to come out. Sometimes it's all it takes, and we'd rather tell you that than charge you a visit to say it.

1Unplug it, then look down the sides of the ram for something jammed.
2A can or a bottle sitting sideways will stop it dead.

Still not fixed?

The longer version, written for a trash compactor that has already failed the quick check above.

Guide · Trash Compactor Trash Compactor Repair: The Problems We See Most Trash compactor repair: not compacting, stuck mid-cycle or smelling? The problems we find most, what you can safely check, and when it's not worth it. Read the guide →

Keeping a trash compactor out of trouble

Most of the calls we get could have been prevented. These are the few jobs that make a real difference.

Every few months
Clean the ram and the chamber walls. Packed-on gunk is what makes them smell and what jams the ram.
Every few months
Check the drive chain or screw for slack if the ram is slowing down.
As needed
Replace the deodorizer or charcoal filter instead of covering up the smell.

Free reminders Get a reminder when trash compactor maintenance is due By text, email or both. Two or three a year, each with the one job that matters that month. Sign me up

When to stop and call someone

Stop here Don't push past this Stop and call if the ram sticks partway down, or if the key switch or door safety lock stops holding. A compactor with a bypassed safety lock is dangerous. Schedule Service

Other appliances

Past the point of a home fix?

Call and we'll give you a flat rate before anyone starts, and tell you straight if it's not worth fixing.

Call (480) 791-8858 Schedule Service

(520) 788-4004 for Pinal County · (480) 791-8858 for Maricopa County