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Magic Chef Trash compactor will not start

01 - Incoming Power Problem

Confirm the trash compactor is plugged in and there is power at the wall receptacle. You can plug another small appliance into the receptacle to confirm there is power. If there is no power, confirm the circuit breaker has not tripped.
Top Solution

02 - Magic Chef Trash Compactor Roller

The trash compactor roller helps the compactor drawer to open and close smoothly. If the roller is broken or damaged the drawer may not close all the way, which will prevent the compactor from starting. Pull out the drawer and inspect the rollers. If the rollers are broken or damaged they will need to be replaced.
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03 - Magic Chef Trash Compactor Drive Gear

The drive gear is the component that drives the chain to raise and lower the compacting ram. If the gear is compromised, the trash compactor may not start. Check the drive gear to see if it is loose on the shaft. If the drive gear is loose, try tightening the mounting nut or set screw. If the drive gear is still loose after tightening the mounting nut or set screw, or if the teeth on the drive gear are worn, replace the drive gear.
Highly Likely

04 - Magic Chef Trash Compactor Directional Switch

When the compacting ram reaches the top of the compactor, the directional switch interrupts all current flow to the motor. However, if the directional switch fails, it may prevent the compactor from starting at all. To determine if the directional switch is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the directional switch has no continuity when actuated or has shorted contacts, replace it.
Common

05 - Magic Chef Trash Compactor Selector Switch

The selector switch controls different functions depending on the model and a defective selector switch may prevent the trash compactor from starting. The selector switch can be checked with a multimeter, using the wiring diagram as a reference. If the selector switch is not functioning, or checks bad with a multimeter, it will need to be replaced.
Common

06 - Magic Chef Trash Compactor Drawer

Trash compactors are designed to only start if the drawer is fully seated in the unit. If the drawer is bent or otherwise damaged, it may not be able to be fully seated, and the compactor will not turn on. Inspect the drawer for alignment problems and replace the part if damaged.
Less Common