Whirlpool Trash compactor will not start: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

The rollers on the Whirlpool trash compactor drawer allow it to open and close smoothly. Inspect the rollers by pulling out the drawer. If any rollers are cracked, worn down, or damaged, the drawer may get stuck and not close completely. This will prevent the compactor from activating. Broken or faulty rollers must be repaired or replaced for the drawer to fully close and the compactor to work properly again.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Roller:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure your safety while working on the roller.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Roller Assembly:
   • Open the compactor drawer and look for the roller assembly, which is typically located at the bottom.
4. Identify the Roller:
   • Identify the specific roller that needs replacement if there are multiple rollers in the assembly.
5. Remove the Old Roller:
   • Typically, the roller is held in place by a mounting bracket or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners, allowing the roller to come free.
6. Replace with a New Roller:
   • Position the new roller in the same location as the old one, making sure it's properly aligned with the mounting bracket or clips.
7. Secure the New Roller:
   • Fasten the new roller in place with the same mounting bracket or clips used with the old roller.
8. Test the Compactor Drawer:
   • Slide the compactor drawer in and out to make sure that the new roller rolls smoothly and supports the drawer's movement.
9. Plug the Compactor Back In:
   • Reconnect the compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
10. Test the Compactor Operation:
    • Power on the Whirlpool trash compactor and use it to compact trash. Make sure the new roller functions correctly and supports the drawer's movement.
11. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new roller, helping to smoothly move the compactor drawer.

Repair Instructions:

The drive gear is a component in a Whirlpool trash compactor that transfers power from the motor to turn the ram that compacts the trash. It is a toothed wheel that engages with other gears to operate the ram. If the drive gear is broken, stripped, or worn out, it can prevent the motor from effectively turning the compaction ram. This would result in the Whirlpool trash compactor not starting when the start button is pressed because the drive system is unable to operate. Replacing the damaged or worn drive gear with a new one would restore the connection from the motor to the ram allowing the Whirlpool trash compactor to start up again.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Drive Gear:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Gear Housing:
   • Open the compactor drawer and locate the gear housing, which is typically near the bottom of the compactor.
4. Identify the Drive Gear:
   • Identify the specific drive gear that needs replacement within the gear housing.
5. Remove the Old Drive Gear:
   • Typically, the drive gear is held in place by clips, screws, or other fasteners. Carefully detach it from these securing mechanisms.
6. Replace with a New Drive Gear:
   • Position the new drive gear in the same location within the gear housing, making sure it's properly aligned with any gear teeth.
7. Secure the New Drive Gear:
   • Reattach the fasteners, whether clips or screws, to secure the new drive gear in place. Tighten them securely.
8. Plug the Compactor Back In:
   • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
9. Test the Compactor Operation:
   • Power on the compactor and operate it to make sure that the new drive gear functions correctly, driving the compactor's compacting mechanism.
10. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new drive gear, enabling it to efficiently compact trash.

Repair Instructions:

The directional switch turns off power to the motor when the compacting ram is at the top of the Whirlpool trash compactor. If this switch is faulty, it can prevent the compactor from starting. To check if the directional switch is defective, use a multimeter to test for electrical continuity. Actuate the switch and check for continuity across the contacts. If there is no continuity or the contacts remain shorted together, the switch will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Directional Switch:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Locate the Directional Switch:
   • The directional switch is typically located on the control panel of the Whirlpool trash compactor.
4. Remove the Control Panel:
   • Depending on the compactor model, you may need to remove the control panel cover to access the directional switch. This often involves removing screws or clips.
5. Identify the Directional Switch:
   • Within the control panel, identify the specific directional switch that needs replacement.
6. Disconnect Wiring:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old directional switch, making sure you remember their positions.
7. Remove the Old Directional Switch:
   • Typically, the directional switch is secured by mounting screws or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
8. Replace with a New Directional Switch:
   • Position the new directional switch in the same location within the control panel, making sure it's properly aligned.
9. Secure the New Directional Switch:
   • Reattach the mounting screws or clips to secure the new directional switch in place. make sure they are tight.
10. Reassemble the Control Panel:
    • Reattach the control panel cover by securing it with screws or clips.
11. Plug the Compactor Back In:
    • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
12. Test the Compactor Operation:
    • Power on the compactor and use the directional switch to ensure that it functions correctly, changing the compactor's direction as intended.
13. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new directional switch, allowing for proper operation and direction changes.

Repair Instructions:

The Whirlpool trash compactor selector switch allows the user to choose between different compaction modes or settings on the Whirlpool trash compactor. It is typically located on the main control panel. The selector switch routes power to the appropriate components to initiate and run the trash compaction cycle. If the selector switch is defective, broken, or not making secure contact in a certain position, it will prevent power from reaching the motor and other parts necessary to start the compaction process. This will result in the Whirlpool trash compactor failing to turn on when the start button is pressed. To test the selector switch, use a multimeter to check for continuity in each switch position. If certain positions do not show continuity, the switch will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Selector Switch:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and make sure it's completely empty.
3. Locate the Selector Switch:
   • The selector switch is typically found on the control panel of the Whirlpool trash compactor, often integrated with other control buttons.
4. Remove the Control Panel Cover:
   • To access the selector switch, you may need to remove the control panel cover. This usually involves unscrewing or unclipping the cover.
5. Identify the Selector Switch:
   • Within the control panel, identify the specific selector switch that needs replacement.
6. Disconnect Wiring:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old selector switch, taking note of their positions.
7. Remove the Old Selector Switch:
   • The selector switch is usually secured with mounting screws or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
8. Replace with a New Selector Switch:
   • Position the new selector switch in the same location within the control panel, making sure it's properly aligned.
9. Secure the New Selector Switch:
   • Reattach the mounting screws or clips to secure the new selector switch in place. make sure they are tight.
10. Reassemble the Control Panel:
    • Reattach the control panel cover, securing it with screws or clips.
11. Plug the Compactor Back In:
    • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
12. Test the Compactor Operation:
    • Power on the compactor and use the new selector switch to make sure it functions correctly, allowing you to select different compactor settings.
13. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new selector switch, enabling you to choose different compaction options.

Repair Instructions:

The Whirlpool trash compactor drawer is the compartment that holds the trash to be compacted. It slides in and out of the main Whirlpool trash compactor cabinet. There is an electrical safety interlock switch connected to the drawer that disengages when the drawer is pulled out. This interlock switch prevents the Whirlpool trash compactor from operating with the drawer open. If the interlock switch is defective or the electrical connection is broken, the switch may not properly reconnect when the drawer is pushed back in. This would prevent electrical power from reaching the motor and starting the compaction cycle, even when the start button is pressed. The interlock wiring would need to be inspected and the switch replaced if faulty.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Drawer:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Before beginning, unplug the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure your safety.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Locate the Drawer Slides:
   • Identify the drawer slides, typically located on both sides of the compactor's frame, that hold the drawer in place.
4. Unlock or Release the Slides:
   • Some Whirlpool trash compactors have a release mechanism on each slide. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to unlock or release the slides. This usually involves pulling a lever or pressing a button.
5. Slide Out the Old Drawer:
   • Once the slides are unlocked, carefully slide out the old compactor drawer. Be cautious as drawers can be heavy.
6. Install the New Drawer:
   • Position the new compactor drawer on the slides, ensuring it aligns with the slides' grooves.
7. Lock or Secure the Slides:
   • Re-engage the release mechanisms to lock or secure the drawer in place. Make sure the drawer is firmly seated.
8. Plug the Compactor Back In:
   • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, ensuring it's properly plugged in.
9. Test the Compactor Drawer:
   • Slide the new drawer in and out to ensure it moves smoothly and locks securely when closed.
10. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new drawer, allowing you to dispose of trash efficiently.

Repair Instructions:

The foot pedal operates the Whirlpool trash compactor drawer. Inspect the pedal for any signs of wear or damage. If the pedal is faulty, it can prevent the drawer from closing completely. Without the drawer fully closed, the compactor will not activate its compacting cycle. A worn or broken foot pedal needs to be repaired or replaced. This will allow the drawer to fully close when the pedal is pressed. Proper functioning of the foot pedal is essential for the Whirlpool trash compactor to start up and compact waste as designed.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Foot Pedal:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and make sure it's completely empty.
3. Locate the Foot Pedal:
   • The foot pedal is typically found at the base of the Whirlpool trash compactor, connected to the compactor drawer.
4. Identify the Pedal Attachment:
   • Note how the foot pedal is attached to the compactor's mechanism. This may involve screws, bolts, or clips.
5. Unfasten the Old Foot Pedal:
   • Using the appropriate tools, unfasten the attachment holding the old foot pedal in place. Carefully remove any screws or clips.
6. Replace with a New Foot Pedal:
   • Position the new foot pedal in the same location on the compactor, making sure it's properly aligned with the attachment points.
7. Secure the New Foot Pedal:
   • Reattach the fastening mechanism (screws, bolts, or clips) to secure the new foot pedal in place. Tighten them securely.
8. Plug the Compactor Back In:
   • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
9. Test the Foot Pedal:
   • Operate the new foot pedal to make sure that it functions correctly, allowing you to open and close the compactor drawer as intended.
10. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new foot pedal, providing you with efficient control over the drawer.

Repair Instructions:

The start switch activates power to the motor to begin the trash compacting cycle. If the compactor hums but does not start compacting, the start switch or motor may be faulty. Use a multimeter to check the start switch for electrical continuity. Actuate the switch and test for continuity across the contacts. If there is no continuity when the switch is pressed, it will need replacement. Lack of continuity indicates a defective switch that cannot send voltage to start the motor. If the switch tests functional, the motor itself may be bad and need repair.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Start Switch:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Control Panel:
   • Depending on your Whirlpool trash compactor model, you may need to remove the control panel cover. This typically involves removing screws or clips.
4. Locate the Start Switch:
   • The start switch is usually found on the control panel of the Whirlpool trash compactor.
5. Identify the Start Switch Attachment:
   • Note how the start switch is attached to the control panel. It may be secured with screws, bolts, or clips.
6. Disconnect Wires:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old start switch. Take note of their positions.
7. Remove the Old Start Switch:
   • Typically, the start switch is secured by mounting screws, bolts, or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
8. Replace with a New Start Switch:
   • Position the new start switch in the same location on the control panel, ensuring it's properly aligned with the attachment points.
9. Secure the New Start Switch:
   • Reattach the fastening mechanism (screws, bolts, or clips) to secure the new start switch in place. Ensure they are tight.
10. Reassemble the Control Panel:
    • Reattach the control panel cover by securing it with screws or clips.
11. Plug the Compactor Back In:
    • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, ensuring it's properly plugged in.
12. Test the Start Switch:
    • Operate the new start switch to ensure that it functions correctly, allowing you to start and stop the compactor as intended.
13. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new start switch, providing you with control over its operation.

Repair Instructions:

The safety switch prevents the Whirlpool trash compactor from operating when the door is open. If the compactor will not start, the safety switch may be faulty. To test it, use a multimeter to check for electrical continuity through the switch contacts. With the door open, actuate the switch and check for continuity. There should be no continuity with the door open. Close the door, actuate the switch again, and check for continuity. If the switch fails to show continuity only when the door is closed, it is defective and requires replacement.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Safety Switch:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Safety Switch:
   • The safety switch is typically located on the control panel of the Whirlpool trash compactor, often integrated with other control buttons.
4. Identify the Safety Switch Attachment:
   • Note how the safety switch is attached to the control panel. It may be secured with screws, bolts, or clips.
5. Disconnect Wiring:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old safety switch, ensuring you remember their positions.
6. Remove the Old Safety Switch:
   • Typically, the safety switch is secured by mounting screws, bolts, or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
7. Replace with a New Safety Switch:
   • Position the new safety switch in the same location on the control panel, ensuring it's properly aligned with the attachment points.
8. Secure the New Safety Switch:
   • Reattach the fastening mechanism (screws, bolts, or clips) to secure the new safety switch in place. Make sure they are tight.
9. Reassemble the Control Panel:
   • Reattach the control panel cover by securing it with screws or clips.
10. Plug the Compactor Back In:
    • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
11. Test the Safety Switch:
    • Operate the new safety switch to ensure that it functions correctly, allowing you to engage and disengage the safety mechanism as intended.
12. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new safety switch, providing you with the necessary safety features.

Repair Instructions:

The door switch disconnects power to the Whirlpool trash compactor when the door is open as a safety measure. If the compactor will not start, the door switch may be faulty. Use a multimeter to check it for electrical continuity. With the door open, test the switch contacts for continuity - there should be none. Close the door completely and test the switch again - it should now show continuity between the contacts. If the switch fails to close the circuit only when the door is fully shut, it is defective and needs replacement.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Door Switch:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • To ensure safety, begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source before starting the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Door Switch:
   • The door switch is typically located within the Whirlpool trash compactor, often near the top of the compactor drawer.
4. Remove the Compactor Drawer:
   • To access the door switch, you may need to remove the compactor drawer. Most drawers have release mechanisms to facilitate removal.
5. Identify the Door Switch:
   • Within the compactor, identify the specific door switch that needs replacement.
6. Disconnect Wiring:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old door switch, making a note of their positions.
7. Remove the Old Door Switch:
   • Typically, the door switch is secured by mounting screws or clips. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
8. Replace with a New Door Switch:
   • Position the new door switch in the same location within the compactor, making sure it's properly aligned.
9. Secure the New Door Switch:
   • Reattach the mounting screws or clips to secure the new door switch in place. make sure they are tight.
10. Reinsert the Compactor Drawer:
    • Carefully reinsert the compactor drawer and make sure it locks securely in place.
11. Plug the Compactor Back In:
    • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, making sure it's properly plugged in.
12. Test the Door Switch:
    • Open and close the compactor drawer to test the new door switch. Make sure it functions correctly and activates the compactor when the door is closed.
13. Final Checks:
    • Confirm that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new door switch, providing the necessary safety features during use.

Repair Instructions:

The drive motor failing is an uncommon reason for a Whirlpool trash compactor not operating. First, test the more frequently defective components like switches and rollers before replacing the motor. Use a multimeter to check if the motor is receiving electrical power when the compactor is turned on. If it is getting power but will not run, then the motor itself is likely faulty and requires replacement. But a defective motor is typically low on the list of potential issues preventing the compactor from compacting trash. Thorough testing of switches, pedals, and other parts will usually identify the problem before motor replacement becomes necessary.

How to Replace Trash Compactor Drive Motor:

1. Safety Precautions:

   • Begin by unplugging the Whirlpool trash compactor from the power source to ensure safety during the replacement process.
2. Empty the Compactor:
   • Remove any trash from the compactor drawer and ensure it's completely empty.
3. Access the Drive Motor:
   • The drive motor is typically located at the bottom or rear of the compactor, connected to the compaction mechanism.
4. Disconnect Wiring:
   • Carefully unplug or disconnect the wires from the old drive motor, making sure you remember their connections.
5. Remove the Old Drive Motor:
   • The motor is often secured by mounting screws or bolts. Carefully detach it from these fasteners.
6. Replace with a New Drive Motor:
   • Position the new drive motor in the same location within the compactor, making sure it aligns with the attachment points.
7. Secure the New Drive Motor:
   • Reattach the mounting screws or bolts to secure the new drive motor in place. Make sure they are tightened properly.
8. Reconnect Wiring:
   • Reconnect the wires to the new drive motor, making sure you have the correct connections.
9. Plug the Compactor Back In:
   • Reconnect the Whirlpool trash compactor to the power source, ensuring it's properly plugged in.
10. Test the Drive Motor:
    • Operate the Whirlpool trash compactor to confirm that the new drive motor functions correctly, allowing you to engage the compaction mechanism.
11. Final Checks:
    • Make sure that the Whirlpool trash compactor operates as intended with the new drive motor, allowing you to efficiently compact trash.

Repair Instructions:

Check that the power cord for the Whirlpool trash compactor is securely plugged into the wall outlet. To verify there is electricity flowing to the outlet, plug a small appliance like a lamp into it to see if it turns on. If there is no power to the outlet, go to the circuit breaker panel and inspect if a breaker has flipped to the off position, interrupting power. Reset any tripped breakers by switching them completely off and then back on again. This should restore power to the outlet for the Whirlpool trash compactor.