KitchenAid Trash Compactor Troubleshooting. KitchenAid Trash compactors effectively reduce the amount of waste you need to haul away from your home or business.
However, it can be incredibly frustrating when you have a faulty compactor, especially if this appliance is already on its last leg and might soon break down for good.
Fortunately, our trusted pros are prepared and equipped to handle everything from repairing units that might work with minor fixes all the way up to replacing broken areas entirely in order to get them back up and running as quickly and efficiently as possible.
KitchenAid Trash Compactor Troubleshooting
Here we will discuss some common issues and solutions for the KitchenAid Trash Compactor Troubleshooting.
The KitchenAid trash compactor won’t start
The trash compactor safety switch is activated by a solenoid.
The solenoid switches on and off through the use of an electromagnet linked to the trash compactor control system, which makes sure the door doesn’t accidentally shut while something is in it.
If the trash compactor doesn’t turn on, you can use a multimeter to test the electrical switch through which voltage runs to start the device.
If the switch doesn’t deliver current when activated, it means the switch is broken and cannot be used anymore.
Therefore, it must be replaced with a brand new one so that you can use your garbage disposer again.
The door switch prevents the trash compactor from starting if the door is open. A defective door switch prevents the compactor from closing correctly.
To determine if the door switch is causing issues, use a multimeter to test that it doesn’t have continuity in its current state (that just means you check and see that it’s closed). Replacing it if there is no continuity is the best option.
The KitchenAid trash compactor won’t stop
When the compactor reaches its full extent, the directional switch cuts off power to the motor.
If the direction switch fails, you could be left with a stalled motor. Check for continuity to determine whether or not it needs replacing.
The start switch is responsible for sending voltage to the motor, which starts the compaction cycle.
If this electrical contact is stuck closed, it will send continuous voltage to the said motor station, causing it to run continuously.
Test the continuity of the start switch with a multimeter to determine whether it is defective. A centrifugal switch controls the drive motor.
The garbage compactor’s drum moves down when the centrifugal switch is activated during the unit’s start-up phase.
Since the drum moves very quickly, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection during this step of troubleshooting.
The KitchenAid trash compactor is making a lot of noise
Inspect the trunnion nut. Trunnion nuts should be lubricated if they are dry. If the trunnion nut is badly damaged or stripped, replace it with a new one.
Check to see if the drive gear is mounted properly to the corresponding shaft and is not loose. If it’s loose, tighten the nut or that it’s attached.
If it’s still too loose after tightening or you see that the teeth are worn, replace the gear by ordering a new one through Amazon.
Check for damage to the gears. If there is damaged gear, replace it with a new one. For some models, this may involve purchasing a new assembly.
Inspect the drive chain for any loose links. If you discover a loose or missing link, replace it.
The KitchenAid trash compactor drawer won’t open
A latch that does not close properly, or sticks in the door guide tracks, can cause a drawer to get stuck and prevent you from opening or closing it.
If, after shutting the door, it takes a lot of effort to pull out the drawer, try pulling the drawer out first before opening the door.
One or more reasons could be responsible for a defective drive chain. However, one common reason would be that it was never installed properly from the onset.
First, make sure to check that the ram drive system’s drive chain is, in fact, installed correctly and has not become jumbled up or jammed in the gears during operation.
When the trunnion nut is defective, the ram will not reach the top of the compactor. There will be no way to open the drawer.
You will have to disassemble the trunnion nut to determine if it is a problem. If it is worn or defective, it should be replaced.
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