How to dispose of a trash compactor is fairly simple because compactors are mostly steel and contain no refrigerant. Once it is unplugged, emptied, and cleaned, it can go to a scrap metal yard, a transfer station metal pile, a city appliance pickup, or out with the installer when you buy a replacement. The main challenge is the weight: undercounter compactors often weigh 100 to 150 pounds.
Prepare it
- Unplug it or turn off the circuit if it is hardwired.
- Empty the bin and remove the bag.
- Clean it out. Old compactors can hold sticky residue and odor; a wipe-down keeps pests and smells out of your vehicle.
- Remove the charcoal or odor filter, which can go in the trash.
- Tape the drawer shut so it does not slide open while you move it.
Retailer haul-away
If you are buying a new compactor, ask the store whether delivery includes removal of the old one. Many appliance retailers haul away old units for free or a small fee. This is often the easiest option.
Scrap metal
Compactors are mostly steel with a motor, which makes them a good fit for scrap. Scrap yards accept them; some pay a little by weight. Transfer stations with a metal area often take them free or for a low appliance fee. Because there is no refrigerant, there is usually no extra charge for evacuation. See separating metal before it is buried.
City appliance pickup
Many cities collect large appliances on bulk days or by appointment. Some charge a small fee per appliance. Check whether they require doors or drawers removed.
Moving it safely
Use an appliance dolly and two people. Compactors are top-heavy when the ram is up. Lay it on its back in a pickup or strap it upright against the cab.
Built-in removal
Undercounter units slide out after removing mounting screws at the top or sides. If it is hardwired, have an electrician cap the wires. Many people install a cabinet or a pull-out trash bin in the opening.
Can it be reused?
A working compactor that is less than about ten years old may find a buyer, especially if it matches common cabinet widths of 12 or 15 inches. Remodelers and people replacing a broken unit of the same size sometimes look for used ones. List it with the model number, width, and a note on whether it powers on and the ram cycles. Appliance parts resellers may also want working motors, keys, and switches from a dead unit. If nobody bites within a week or two, move on to scrap so it does not sit in the garage collecting odors.
How to dispose of a trash compactor FAQ
Can I put a trash compactor out for trash pickup?
Usually only through a bulky or appliance pickup. Many cities schedule these by request.
Does a trash compactor contain refrigerant?
No. Compactors have a motor and a ram, but no refrigerant, so they need no evacuation.
Will a scrap yard take a trash compactor?
Yes. Compactors are mostly steel and are accepted as scrap appliances.
How heavy is a trash compactor?
Many undercounter models weigh about 100 to 150 pounds.
What do I put in the space where the compactor was?
Many people add a cabinet, a pull-out trash bin, or a wine rack.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a trash compactor: unplug, empty, and clean it, then use a retailer haul-away, a city appliance pickup, a scrap yard, or a transfer station metal pile. Compactors do not contain refrigerant, so disposal is usually simple and inexpensive. Use the map to find a site near you that accepts appliances.
Hauling it yourself? If the load won’t fit in the truck bed, a 6×10 ft open-rail utility trailer or a 4×8 ft folding trailer (it folds upright to store in a garage) can cost less than a couple of hauler trips. Tie everything down with ratchet tie-down straps; many sites charge extra for loose or uncovered loads. Bag loose debris in 55-gallon contractor bags so it’s quicker to unload.
Guides and tools
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