The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Trash compactor drawer will not open are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
The trash compactor roller helps the compactor drawer to open and close smoothly. If the roller is broken or damaged the drawer may not be able to open. Try lifting the drawer upwards as you pull it out to disengage the rollers, then inspect the rollers for damage and replace as necessary.
The trash compactor drive shaft is the component that rotates the drive gear to drive the chain which raises and lowers the ram. If any of the drive components have failed, the ram may be obstructing the drawer and prevent it from being opened. Inspect the drive shaft for any damage and confirm the drive gear is properly secured to it.
The trash compactor drive gear is the component that drives the chain to raise and lower the ram. If any of the drive components have failed, the ram may be obstructing the drawer and prevent it from being opened. Inspect the drive gear for any damage and confirm it is properly secured to the motor shaft.
Usually, if the latch is broken, you can use a putty knife or screwdriver to release the door catch. You may have to disassemble the drawer to remove. After removing the drawer, inspect the latch. If the latch is damaged or broken, replace it.
The drive chain on the ram drive system might have broken, become jammed in the gears, or fell off the gears completely. If the drive chain is defective, the ram will not move all the way to the top of the compactor. As a result, the drawer will be prevented from opening. To determine if the drive chain is at fault, you will need to disassemble the compactor to inspect the chain. If the drive chain is broken, replace it.
If the trunnion nut is defective, the ram will not move all the way to the top of the compactor. As a result, the drawer will be prevented from opening. To determine if the trunnion nut is at fault, you will need to disassemble the compactor to inspect the trunnion nut. If the trunnion nut is stripped or defective, replace it.
Inspect the foot pedal for damage. If the foot pedal is damaged, replace it.
