Trash Compactors - How to Install, Do it Yourself Kitchen Remodeling

If you are remodeling a kitchen, planning a new kitchen or just updating your kitchen appliances consider adding a trash compactor in the design. Trash compactors help the environment by reducing the volume of trash up to 75% before it reaches the landfill, by using a compacting force up to 5,000 pounds. When you are choosing which trash compactor brands and models to purchase consider your needs as to how often the bags will have to be changed and how heavy the compacted bags will weigh.

Trash compactors can be installed under the counter or as a free standing unit within the kitchen in place of a trash container. Compactors are available in 12" wide, 15"wide and 18"wide versions, with the most popular being 15" wide. Some of the brands of compactors are Whirlpool, Broan, Kitchen Aid, GE, JennAir, Viking, Maytag, Kenmore and others. Compare the different brand, features and sizes to decide what will fit into your kitchen design the best.

Do it yourself planning. If you are considering installing the compactor yourself in your existing cabinetry find a convenient spot, but most importantly see if any of your existing cabinet sizes match up with the width of your new trash compactor. If you have a 12" or 15" base cabinet in your existing kitchen layout this would be the obvious choice for the location to install the compactor. If your existing cabinets are wider you will have to remove them and install filler pieces to close the opening to the width of the compactor. Next locate a circuit or source for a 110v power outlet to be mounted next to the compactor location in another cabinet. Check the surrounding cabinets to see if any other hidden utilities, such as gas or water lines, along the back wall or floor will restrict the space provided for the compactor.

Tools needed may include - jigsaw, extension cord, flashlight, handsaw, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, blocks of scrap wood, hammer, drill or screw gun, 2" hole saw, pry bar, level, shims, cabinet screws and countertop screws. Materials needed - decorative front panels if needed, matching cabinet face frame filler pieces, electric wire enough to reach source of power, GFCI receptacle, single electric box, wire nuts- if needed, electrical tape, cover plate for receptacle.

Prep Before Installation. Gather the tools and materials needed for installation including electric wire, box and outlet. Unpack the new trash compactor removing crating and packing materials. Wear gloves when carrying the appliance as there may be sharp edges on the exterior and bottom of the compactor. Inspect the appliance for damages or missing parts and remove installation guide to read before start of installation. Check the size of the compactors width, length and location of power cord and any other obtrusion on the compactors chassis.

Start the installation. First remove drawers and contents for the cabinet to be removed for compactor space. Remove the cabinet installation screws located in the sides of the cabinet into the cabinet on either side of this. Remove the screws from the top of the base cabinet that are installed into the countertop, and finally check the back of the cabinet for screws which are fastening the cabinet to the back wall. Remove any base trim or rubber base in the front toe space along the flooring. The cabinet should now be free of its mounting.

Try moving the base cabinet to see it is free and check for any additional fastening screws or nails. Protect the flooring in front of this base cabinet before you try to slide it out of position. Remove the cabinet from the room so you have ample working space to install the compactor.

Check the size of this rough opening to make sure it will accommodate the new compactor with no restrictions. If the opening of the width is too large now is the time to install any side filler pieces to maintain manufacturer's specs for rough opening dimensions.

Install electric outlet. It is preferred to run a separate circuit for any kitchen appliance if possible and always install a GFCI protected receptacle if near the sink cabinet. Find a location to mount the box for the receptacle, most likely in the center of the back wall or in a cabinet next to the compactor space if the depth is too short. If mounting the electric box in a cabinet next to this space make an access hole approx 2" diameter for the electric cord and plug from the compactor to go thru the sidewall of cabinet to box. Install wiring and box with all parts and test before installing the compactor.

Install the Trash Compactor. Review the manufacturer's installation guide for proper fastening or mounting clips to be installed before setting compactor in place. Remove shipping screws or fasteners Place protection on the floor area in front of cabinets as not to damage the existing floor as you slide in the compactor. Most brands of trash compactors have adjustable levelers to adjust the height, plumb and level the unit. To adjust the levelers lay the compactor on its side and adjust as needed and raise the levelers enough so the compactor top meets countertop bottom and closes the gap. Stand the trash compactor back in upright position and move near the opening. Make sure the power is off and connect the power cord to the receptacle.

Slide the compactor into the rough opening, in place and check that the unit is plumb and level. If adjustments need to be made repeat the leveling procedure and reinstall the unit Install the decorator front panels and adjust the foot pedal or door opening latches for proper operation according to installation procedures in manual. Turn on power and test for vibration or movement.

In all steps of the installation refer to the manufacturers installation guide, diagrams, illustration pictures and detailed photos. Follow all safety operations, troubleshooting and procedures as described in owners manual.