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COMPACTORS AND WASTE EQUIPMENT FOR NEWBIES

This quick overview is especially designed for those who will admit that when it comes to Compactors and Waste Equipment, they just don't get it, and have classified themselves as the newbies, beginners, novice buyers or first time buyers who need special attention.

Step 1:

Read some of the basics:

Trash Compactors and Waste Disposal

Trash Compactors Use & Reference Guide

Compactors Application Guide

Waste Generated by Industry / Building Type

Waste Generated by Industry & Building Type (Cubic Yards)

Recycling and Waste Related Links & Information - by State

Step 2:

Decide on the Type of Compactor based on the above links and other factors such as:

  • Evaluate where most of the waste is generated, and whether or not you would be better suited by either an indoor compactor or an outdoor compactor.
  • Volume of trash (It is a good idea to carefully evaluate the amount of loose trash that is being generated from the various areas of your facility before making a decision). This will also help guide you towards either an indoor or outdoor compactor.

  • Your Waste Reduction Budget

  • Logistics of where the compaction equipment should be situated in relation to where the waste is being generated should also help guide you towards either an indor compactor or outdoor compactor.  

  • Evaluate the Material Handling Equipment that may be necessary for moving the compacted  trash (or loose trash depending upon circumstances) to the collection area for hauler pick-up. For example, if your inclination is indoor compactors and the compacted trash cube will weigh approximately 250 pounds, is there a clear and easy path for getting this compacted trash to the dumpster in a safe manner. There are indoor models that have built-in carts that provide 'push button' control for raising the compacted trash into a Dumpster, however access to the dumpster must be feasible. In addition, there are also indoor versions that require stand alone Hand Trucks for lifting the trash into the Dumpster. The advantage of the compactor models that do not have the built in cart is that oftentimes customers prefer to empty the compactor long before they signal full (for example, when the weight is only 50 pounds). Usually these are situations where the dumpster is close by the back door so maximizing labor savings (derived from waiting for the compactor to become totally full) is not that important of a consideration. And of course, there are other scenario's where the indoor compactors without the built in carts can be advantageous, such as situations involving a flight of stairs where it would actually be much easier to hand carry a 50 pound bag of trash. versus trying to use a Hand Truck with 250 pounds.  

  • Evaluate the trash profile. For example, if you have a steady flow of old appliances, pallets and other bulky items that are disposed of, it will require a Pre-Crusher versus the typical Stationary Compactor or Self Contained Compactor.

  • Evaluate the possibility of separating out recyclables from your waste stream as a another step. If nothing else, you can remove this material from your waste stream and have somebody pick up these recyclables (oftentimes at very little or no charge depending upon various factors such as quantity and quality). But regardless, once you remove this from your waste stream, you have already reduced your waste hauling / landfill requirements considerably.

Step 3:

Decide on the Compactor Features and Options that will best suit your needs:

  • What type of electrical service does your building have?

  • If you are leaning towards an outdoor compactor, is there a clear and safe path for the hauler to an unobstructed area (free of overhead electrical lines etc) where pick-ups or 'waste tips' can be made.  And. is there enough space outdoors based on the footprint of the compactor (and detachable container if applicable).  

  • If the compactor is to be Outdoors, is there a concern for odor or liquids in and around the compactor. For example, if there is a concern for liquids, you will need to focus on a Self-Contained Compactor, and if there is a concern for odor you will need to add the Odor Control Option.  

  • If it is to be an Outdoor Compactor, do you have the capability to provide the proper floor prep and electrical service for an outdoor compactor?.

  • If it is to be Outdoors do you have enough turn-around area for the hauler?

  • Be sure to explain your situation in detail so that the person recommending a specific Compactor can be armed with the right information.

Step 4:

Choose the Right Supplier:

  • We have one company in particular that we would highly recommend. Call us to find out who that would be for your particular Compactor & Waste Equipment needs.

 

Contributor / Editor - Matt Kennedy - Refer questions to info@wastecare.com

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