How to Troubleshoot a KitchenAid Trash Compactor
- 1). Operate the compactor frequently if there doesn't appear to be enough force or compaction. Don't wait for the drawer to fill completely. Run the compactor when the drawer is between half-full and full. The compactor won't run if the drawer is less than half-full.
- 2). Plug the compactor into a grounded 3-prong outlet if the compactor won't run at all. Make sure the drawer is fully closed. The compactor won't run if the drawer isn't shut for safety reasons.
- 3). Turn the key-knob all the way to the start position. Some KitchenAid trash compactors require you to press an "On" button before "Start."
- 4). Lift the foot pedal up if the drawer won't open. The drawer remains closed in the Solid Cycle. Lifting the foot pedal releases it. The drawer only opens when the ram is up fully. You can get the ram to rise on some models by pressing "Off" and then "On." Some models that have a key switch need you to turn the key-knob to "Start" and then release the key-knob to raise the ram.
