Why won't my trash compactor stop running?

A stuck foot pedal or failed momentary start switch will cause the trash compactor to run constantly.

If the trash compactor starts as soon as you close the drawer and won't stop running, unplug the trash compactor and check the foot pedal. Make sure the foot pedal pivots freely. Repair or replace the foot pedal if it's stuck in the start position.

If the foot pedal pivots freely, then you'll likely need to replace the momentary start switch because the switch is constantly supplying power to the motor.

In trash compactors that combine the power switch and momentary start switch, you'll likely need to replace the power switch if the foot pedal pivots freely and the motor runs constantly.