Updated: November 2017
Trash Compactor Reviews:
Purchasing a trash compactor is a great way to eliminate all that unwanted kitchen trash and stop having to take the trash out so often. Modern trash compactors are capable of eliminating 75% of your trash volume. Trash compactors are small enough to fit into almost any kitchen (or boat). When deciding on which model to buy, you need to consider if you want a freestanding or under the counter model. Under the counter trash compactors will not have a finished top but it can be conveniently installed between cabinets saving on space requirements. To get that "flush" look from the unit, consider an aftermarket trim kit. Freestanding compactors, unlike the under the counter models, have finished tops and therefore offer extra counter space. Most compactors are 24" to 24 1/4" deep, 12 to 15 inches wide and from 34 1/8 to 35 inches high Standard features on almost all trach compactors are 1/3 horsepower motors, 1.4 cu. ft. capacity, noise insulation, 2000, 3000, or 5000 lbs of compacting force, anti-jam capabilities, paper or plastic bags, air freshener compartments, trash baskets that tilt away, and reversible panels.



Buying Guide - You'll want to get a trash compactor with quality safety features like removable key knob control, tilt sensors, and anti-jam systems so the trash compactor doesn't jam. Keep aerosal cans, explosive chemicals, flammable materials, and poisonous chemicals out of the compactor. Children should always stay away from the compactor. With many trash compactor bags holding up to 50 lbs of compressed trash when full, you will need to either empty the bag more often or make sure someone is around to carry the bags that weigh too much. Although many of the trash compactors we reviewed can compact glass, we recommend not using them for that purpose since glass splinters can poke through the bads and cause unnecessary injuries/cuts when you go to through out the bag. One feature that owners appreciate is that the vast majority of trash compactors require little maintenance. If you do decide to clean your trash compactor, wear gloves, unplug the unit, and remove the bag. You can wash the interior or exterior with soap and water and then make sure it is thoroughly dry before putting in a new bag and closing the drawer up. Some people like to vacuum out their trash compactors every once in a while, which is fine, but make sure you replace the charcoal filter often enough to keep odors away. The top brand names for home trash compactors are GE, Kitchen Aid, Broan, Whirlpool, Viking, and Kenmore. Stores like Sears, Home Depot, or Lowes sell trash compactors and they range in price from the low $400's up to $2000 for the high end Viking models. RECOMMENDED - We suggest checking online at Amazon.com for pricing of brands like KitchenAID, Broan, and other. You can browse their top selling trash compactors online here