Most people keep a trash can in their kitchen to throw away their garbage, but that isn't the most environmentally friendly way of disposing of your trash. It leads to a large quantity of trash for the landfills. There is a better option, though, and that is using a trash compactor for your garbage. The trash compactor crushes your waste into a smaller, more-compact package that doesn't take up as much room in your home or in the landfill. This means you don't need to use as many plastic trash bags because you can fit more into each one. Here are three of the best trash compactors available in 2021.
GE Profile UCG1520NSS
The UCG1520NSS from GE Profile features a 1.4-cu. ft. capacity with a powerful 1/3 HP motor for maximum compacting power. You get an upscale appearance with this compactor, which gets built-in to your adjacent cabinetry. The rear wheels allow for easy movement and installation. It also has its controls hidden behind the door for a sleek, designer appearance. This model is easy to open and load with the hands-free toe pedal drawer, and even challenging loads are easy to put into this compactor with its automatic anti-jam feature. Emptying and cleaning the unit is easy thanks to its removable drawer. The removable key lock helps ensure safe operation by assuring the door is locked during use.
Whirlpool GC900QPPQ
Whirlpool makes one of the best trash compactors currently available with this convertible model that gives you a spacious 1.4-cu. ft. capacity and a 1/3 HP motor. Its convertible design means you can keep it as a freestanding unit or make it a built-in installation. It has a portable design that gives you options for where you can put it, including in a garage or pantry. The Easy Rollers™ installation wheels help you bring the compactor to where you want it. You get hands-free control of the unit with the Touch-Toe™ drawer opener, which requires just a light tap of the toe to release the drawer. The Clean Touch™ console features a smooth surface with touchpad controls and no dials or switches. Quiet Pack™ sound conditioning gives this model quiet operation so it doesn’t disturb you when it’s in use. The hidden removable key lets you control who operates the machine, and you get a tilt-away trash basket.
Gladiator Garageworks GACP15XXMG
Gladiator Garageworks makes this 1.4-cu. ft. model with a 1/4 HP motor that doesn't take up much of your valuable kitchen space. This model gives you a compression force of 2,200-lb. per square inch. The 4-to-1 compaction ratio powerfully crushes and compresses trash, resulting in approximately 75% less trash in your home. You also get a good amount of mobility with this model that has swiveling rear casters to make it easy to move, while the front casters lock with a simple step to solidly hold the compactor in place. You can use the Touch-Toe foot pedal to open the bin when your hands are full, and it glides out smoothly on rails. When the door is opened, the compression ram automatically reverses to prevent jamming.
Related Questions
What should you not throw in the trash compactor?
Trash compactors are useful appliances, but they shouldn't be used to throw away everything. You shouldn't put food waste, like raw meat or fish, in your compactor. Personal hygiene items and diapers shouldn't go in your trash compactor, either, because of the strong odors they create. You also shouldn't compact flammable items or explosive items like fireworks.
How long do trash compactors last?
The average life expectancy of a trash compactor is about 7-11 years. Proper use and routine maintenance will help to maximize the lifespan of the unit.