How To Choose The Right Trash Compactors For Home

If you are in the process of comparing potential trash compactors for your home, you may want to be aware of what to look for so you don't just buy one that is at a discount and find out later that it is not the right unit for you.  Many people don't think about managing waste past installing disposals like those from Sinkmaster or Insinkerator but there are other options.

Adding a trash compactor to your kitchen eliminates the garbage smell in the room and having to constantly argue about who is taking the trash out far too often.  Not to mention, this is one of the best ways to put a stop to your food waste ending up in landfills where it decomposes and releases toxic gas into the air.

What Are The Right Specifications For You?

Today, manufacturers make these units so compact that they can fit in even the smallest kitchen and are  even ideal for boats.  Under the counter styles do not have a finished top but they can be installed neatly between cabinets which really saves on space.  If you want a nice flush look you can also buy an after market more custom made trim.

Freestanding units have finished tops that can be used for a little extra counter top space if needed.  Most compactors come with 1.4 cu ft capacity 1/3 horsepower motor, noise insulator, anti-jam capabilities, plastic or paper bags, tilt-away trash baskets, reversible panels and between 2,000 and 5,000 pounds compacting force.

When you go to buy your new compact trash unit, choose one that has safety features, especially if you have little ones in the home who may want to feed it when you're not looking.  Removable key knobs can be a big stopper when it comes to avoiding accidents.

Some Important Safety Considerations

It is important that everyone in the house (adults included) understand that this is not a new toy.  Poisonous or explosive chemicals, flammable materials and aerosol cans must never be put in the unit.  Many compactors will hold 50 pounds worth of trash in the bags so keep in mind that although you won't have to take the trash out so often, it may be a two-person job.  Also, although many styles suggest that it is safe to throw in glass, it is really never recommended.

You will appreciate that trash compactors for home require very little maintenance.  Should you decide to clean it, flip the power switch to off and unplug it, remove the bag and put on gloves.  Some people like to vacuum their unit out but you can simply wash it with warm soapy water and make sure that it is dry before putting in a new bag.