How to fix your Roper trash compactor when it won't 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.
What to do when the motor runs but the ram doesn't move in your Roper trash compactor
The ram won't move if the power nuts don't grip the drive screw grooves or if the drive gear and sprocket chain is broken or disconnected from the sprockets.
Open the drawer and remove the trash container if it's still in the drawer. Pull the trash compactor out of the cabinet and unplug the power cord so you can examine components and find the cause of the failure.
Remove the drawer and the top trash compactor cover. Lay the compactor down and remove the bottom cover. Check for a broken or disconnected chain. Replace the chain if it's broken. If the chain is intact but disconnected, check the drive gear and sprockets for damage. Replace any stripped or damaged drive parts.
If the chain, drive gear and sprockets are all okay, manually spin the power screws to see if power nuts grip the drive screw grooves. If the power nuts grip the drive screws, the power nuts and ram will move when you manually spin the power screws. If the power nuts and ram won't move when you manually spin the power screws, replace the nuts because they are stripped or broken.
Reassemble the trash compactor after finding and fixing the cause of the ram drive failure. Plug the compactor in and reinstall it in the cabinet.
