Trash compactor symptoms
Find out what to do when your trash compactor won't start, the ram goes up and down continuously or the motor runs but the ram won't move. Our symptom and troubleshooting advice can help you resolve any trash compactor problem. Key your trash compactor model number in the model finder at the top of the page to find replacement parts. Order the parts you need, then use our DIY trash compactor repair guides to help you install parts and get back to crunching trash.
Symptoms common to all trash compactors
Choose a symptom to see related trash compactor repairs.
Main causes: broken drive gear and sprocket chain, stripped power nuts, faulty top limit and directional switch…
Main causes: stuck foot pedal, bad momentary start switch, power switch failure…
Main cause: broken top limit and directional switch…
Main causes: bent drawer support rollers, damaged trash container…
Main causes: stripped or broken power nuts, broken or disconnected drive gear and sprocket chain, damaged drive parts…
Main cause: faulty drawer tilt switch …
Main causes: lack of power, faulty drawer safety switch, bad power switch, momentary start switch failure, bad drive mot…
Most common repair guides to help fix your trash compactors
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your trash compactor.
How to replace a trash compactor power switch
If the trash compactor won’t power up, use the steps in this repair guide to replace the power switch....
How to replace a trash compactor momentary start switch
The momentary start switch starts the motor when you lift the foot pedal. This repair guide shows how to replace the swi...
How to replace a trash compactor motor centrifugal switch
If the trash compactor ram won’t return to the top position, replace the motor centrifugal switch by following the instr...
Effective articles & videos to help repair your trash compactors
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your trash compactor.
Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier....
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect....
Learn what to check if you are having problems with the drawer sticking on your trash compactor....