Garbage disposal is an unavoidable chore in any home; even the most environmentally conscious homes generate waste. Many people prefer to install a trash compactor to simplify the disposal of all the rubbish. A home trash compactor is a garbage can on steroids.
Not only can these functional household appliances retain waste, but they also compress it into a thick, tight bundle that is up to 75% smaller than its initial volume. This makes waste disposal simpler and cuts down on the number of trips to the garbage bins, recycling center, or dump. In addition, the bundling feature saves money on trash bags by lowering the amount of waste sent to the landfill.
Do you want a more efficient kitchen? Read on for more details on how a residential trash compactor can reduce waste and save you money.
At a Glance:
Trash Compactor Cans vs. Built In Compactors
Why Should You Buy a Trash Compactor?
What are Trash Compactors?
A compactor trash can is a trash receptacle with an integrated crushing mechanism, that’s usually a hydraulic ram. These waste disposal appliances can get more use out of a single bag using unparalleled power, precision, and efficiency to crush garbage much better than the old “squish it down” trick you learned at home.
A trash compactor works the same way as a regular trash can — you place your garbage in the can, but as soon as the can is full, you activate the crusher by pressing a switch. The crushing mechanism then compresses the compactor trash until it’s a fraction of its original size.
Types of Compactors
Trash compactor models can come in a variety of sizes and configurations. When choosing a model, you have your choice of a freestanding, under counter, or convertible trash can with a compactor. These products have dimensions ranging between 12” and 15” wide, 34” to 35” tall, and approximately 24 inches deep.
Freestanding
Freestanding trash compactors are ideal for those who already have a fully finished kitchen because they don’t require any remodeling. They are easy to install, but they should be placed near an electrical outlet if they are powered by electricity. Most of them have a finished top made of the same material as the rest of the trash can. Because these freestanding trash compactors are not designed to be installed under the counter, the top can even be used as an additional work surface.
Under Counter
An under-counter compactor can also be referred to as a built-in trash compactor since it is placed between two lower kitchen cabinets like a dishwasher. As they are typically available in standard base cabinet dimensions (H: 35”to 36”; W: 12” to 48”; D: 25” to 26”), they can be used to replace cabinets. The tops are unfinished, so you might need professional installation, depending on your skill level. There are some models that allow you to choose the front panel of your choice so that the compactor blends seamlessly with the rest of your cabinetry.
Convertible
Homeowners can choose between installing convertible compactors as freestanding or under-the-counter appliances, offering the best of both worlds. The tops are finished, but they can also be transformed into a built-in appliance for a kitchen remodel.
Shop Trash Compactors
Trash CompactorsTrash Compactor Cans vs. Built In Compactors
When it comes to deciding between types of compactors, most struggle to decide between freestanding and built in models. Below, we’ve broken down some of each compactor’s best features and which kitchens they are ideal for.
Freestanding
- Easy to install
- Finished tops
- Compactor top can be used as an extra work surface
✅ Ideal Kitchen: Finished kitchens
Built-In
- Installed under the countertop
- Some models can be installed with a custom panel for seamless cabinetry integration
✅ Ideal Kitchen: Remodeled kitchens
Why Should You Buy a Trash Compactor?
These kitchen appliances haven’t always had the best reputation since they were introduced in the 1970s. Yet the latest models have put the past firmly behind them with an updated design and innovative features that make them a real convenience for modern families. Let’s take a look at how modern trash compactors have redeemed themselves!
Trash Compactor Benefits
- Saves money, reducing the frequency of taking out the trash.
- Odorless garbage since select models offer an air freshener option or a compartment with charcoal filters.
- Improves eco-footprint, using less space in landfills and fewer garbage bags.
- The compressed form of trash is easier to store and handle.
- Sanitation risks of excessive waste buildup are lowered.
Trash Compactor Top Pick
If you are considering purchasing a compactor trash can, take a look at our top pick!
Our Recommendation: KitchenAid® 15” Stainless Steel Built In Trash Compactor
Reduce the waste impact in your local area by simplifying your garbage collecting and recycling efforts with this KitchenAid trash compactor. The Solid Pack Control minimizes your waste volume by 80 percent, allowing you to fit up to five bags worth of cereal boxes, fast food containers, and orange peels all into one bag. And don’t worry about lingering aromas― this compactor’s odor management system uses a fan and charcoal filters to trap all unwanted smells in your kitchen. Even better, you won’t even hear the powerful 1/3 HP motor thanks to Whisper Quiet Plus that helps maintain the peace and quiet of your home.
Features:
- Odor Management System
- Whisper Quiet Plus
- Solid Pack Control
Trash Compactor Maintenance
Anti-jamming technology and odor-neutralizing compartments are standard features on most compactor models. As a result, the majority of these appliances don’t require a lot of upkeep. But if your compactor is in need of some TLC, here are some maintenance steps to follow:
- Unplug your trash compactor.
- Take out the bag, caddy, or bin, and follow the appliance manual’s cleaning instructions. (We recommend wearing thick, sturdy gloves for this part.)
- Vacuum the compactor’s interior.
- Clean the inside and outside using warm, soapy water, then rinse and dry.
- Replace the bin or caddy with a new bag and close the drawer.
- Check and replace the air freshener or charcoal filter occasionally.
Trash Compactor FAQ
When it comes to shopping for a new trash compactor, all of your questions and doubts should be answered before you buy. Here are some of our appliance shoppers’ top compactor questions.
Q: Are trash compactors worth it?
Trash compactors are great for the environment because they reduce the volume of household trash. They reduce the number of trash bags entering landfills. With less waste in dumpsters, the number of times a dumpster needs to be emptied is reduced.
Q: Do trash compactors need special garbage bags?
Yes, residential trash compactors need trash compactor bags to ensure that your appliance functions properly. These specially designed bags are designed to withstand the vast amounts of force that a home trash compactor would apply to your trash.
Q: Are garbage disposals and trash compactors the same?
Many people tend to confuse these kitchen appliances for being one and the same when they have two very different functions. As we mentioned, trash compactors are trash cans with a built-in crushing mechanism to compress and condense all types of waste. On the other hand, garbage disposals are installed underneath a sink and solely remove food waste. What these waste disposing appliances truly have in common — besides their function — is that you shouldn’t put your hand inside either while they are operating!
Why Trust Friedmans Appliance?
Established in 1922, Friedmans Appliance has been the most trusted name in the Bay Area for over 100 years. What started as a small appliance store in Oakland has expanded to include every appliance you need for your home. Our commitment to value, inspiration, and character has only grown, creating an unbeatable reputation for top-notch appliances. At Friedmans, we strive to give our customers the best of the best, including our selection of top appliance brands and our exceptional customer service. Speaking of which, we offer a 100-day price guarantee on all our products — the longest in the industry!
Our wide selection of appliances is just one of the reasons we’re the best Bay Area appliance store. We carry refrigerators in every style, every cooking appliance to show off your chef skills, and every dish care and laundry appliance you need for cleanup.
Shop Trash Compactors at Friedmans
See for yourself why Friedmans is a trusted name in the Bay Area and shop other parts online. While we are located in Pleasant Hill, we deliver to all of Northern California — even Reno! If you have any questions, our team is always happy to help you find a new trash compactor, whether you call us at 925-808-2950, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our appliance store in Pleasant Hill to experience the quality in person. Visit us today!
Learn More: What to Expect with Your New Appliance Purchase