June 01, 2013

How to replace a trash compactor momentary start switch

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the momentary start switch on a trash compactor. The momentary switch, located behind the front frame cover on the right, starts the motor to compact trash when you lift the foot pedal. If the motor won't start when you activate the momentary start switch, replace the switch with the manufacturer-approved trash compactor part.

Follow these steps to replace the momentary start switch on Kenmore, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Maytag and JennAir trash compactors.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

Nut driver set

Phillips screwdriver

Pliers

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Pull the trash compactor out of the counter
Lay cardboard in front of the trash compactor to protect the floor, then remove the mounting screws that secure the trash compactor in the counter. Pull the trash compactor out of the counter.
Tip: Use your installation manual as a guide.
02.
Disconnect electrical power
Unplug the trash compactor or shut off the house circuit breaker.
03.
Remove the drawer
Pull the drawer out until it stops.
Grasp the drawer handle firmly and lift the front of the drawer until the rail stops clear the drawer rail.
Carefully lift the drawer out of the compactor and set it aside.
PHOTO: Pull the drawer out until it hits the rail stops.
PHOTO: Lift the drawer up to clear the rail stops and remove the drawer.
04.
Remove the top cover
Remove the mounting screws that secure the top cover to the trash compactor frame. Pull the top cover off and set it aside.
PHOTO: Remove the top panel screws.
PHOTO: Remove the top panel.
05.
Release the front frame
Remove the air filter.
Remove the mounting screws that secure the front frame to the trash compactor.
Pull the frame off the front of the trash compactor. The switch wires are still attached.
PHOTO: Remove the air filter cover.
PHOTO: Remove the air filter.
PHOTO: Remove the top frame screws.
PHOTO: Remove the side frame screws.
PHOTO: Pull off the front frame.
06.
Remove the momentary start switch
Note the location of wires or take a digital photo of the connections before removing the wires..
Pull the wires off the start switch.
Release the clips that hold the switch in the front frame and pull the switch out.
PHOTO: Pull off the switch wires.
PHOTO: Remove the start switch.
07.
Install the new momentary start switch
Push the new momentary start switch into the front frame until the locking tabs snap into place.
Connect the wires to the new momentary start switch, using the digital photo or notes for reference.
08.
Reinstall the front frame
Position the front frame on the front of the trash compactor and install the mounting screws.
Reinstall the air filter.
PHOTO: Reinstall the front frame.
PHOTO: Reinstall the front frame screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the air filter.
09.
Reinstall the top cover
Position the top cover and install the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the top cover.
10.
Reinstall the drawer
Tilt the drawer up and insert the drawer rails into the rails on the inside frame of the compactor.
Slide the drawer in and make sure that it shuts and opens properly.
PHOTO: Reinstall the drawer.
11.
Restore power
Plug in the trash compactor or reset the house circuit breaker.
12.
Reinstall the trash compactor in the counter
Slide the trash compactor into the counter opening and install the mounting screws.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.