What is a Waste Compactor?

In simple terms, a waste compactor squashes down compactable waste. Predominantly used in a commercial setting, they can help organisations to boost sustainability and cut waste collection charges. There are many different types and sizes of waste compacting machines available, therefore seeking specialist advice or a machine trial can help you to choose the most appropriate equipment for your needs.

How Does a Waste Compactor Work? 

By applying pressure upon waste materials, the overall volume of the material and the space surrounding it can be reduced to a smaller size. Some types of compactors are designed to work in conjunction with your commercial bins, whereas others require you to divert waste away from your bins and put it into a compaction chamber instead. 

Benefits of Using a Waste Compactor

The benefits of organisations installing a waste compactor include: 

• Helping to keep your bin area free of clutter and reduce the likelihood of overflowing bins. This is a great advantage for premises where bins are in places which can be seen by the public.
• Help to effectively "increase" the capacity of your bins. For businesses that pay for waste collection based on the size of their bins, squashing rubbish into the bin means they can fit more waste inside
• If fewer waste collections need to be made by bin lorries, less carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere and fewer vehicles are driving on the road.

The Different Types of Workplace Waste Compactors  

For SME’s, there are a wide variety of options available including:

• Commercial Bin Compactors - When your bins are full, a hydraulic bin press can be used to squash the rubbish stored inside the bin. 
• Cardboard Compactors – Bins are probably the most expensive way of disposing of uncompacted cardboard boxes which is why many organisations choose to bale their box waste instead.
• Plastic Waste Compactors – Whether your waste includes trays, pots or polythene wrap, baling it in a compactor can help make it easier to transport to a recycling facility. 
• Paint Can Compactors – Once empty, metal can waste can be compacted easily with the right type of equipment installed.
• Glass Bottle Compactors – Mostly consisting of air, bottle waste is notoriously bulky and clunking bins of bottles are not going to make you popular with your neighbours. Instead, bottles and jars can be safely crushed using a commercial glass crusher.

How to Choose the Right Waste Compactor For Your Workplace 

Each waste compactor is different, so it’s important to do your research to ensure you choose a machine that will help rather than hinder your waste handling. You’ll want to consider factors like your waste type, electrical connection, the volume of rubbish you produce and how much space you have available for a new machine. 

At QCR, our trusted team are more than happy to give you advice about which machine would be the best fit for your business. Contact us and we can arrange a free, no obligation site survey of your business waste. We’ll organise for a locally based QCR waste expert to visit your site. They can help you calculate how recycling equipment can help you save space, money and time whilst enhancing your sustainability efforts. In most cases, we’ll also be able to provide you with a free trial of the equipment we’ve recommended following the site survey (subject to some geographical restrictions and machine availability). After the trial both hire and purchase options are available.

Contact QCR for Information on Waste Compactors 

We’ve been a leading supplier of waste compacting equipment since 1999. With 25 years of experience, you’re in the right place. We have a range of waste compactors of different purposes and sizes to discover on our website. These can either be purchased or hired. We have other waste management solutions too like cardboard balers and glass bottle crushers. Choosing QCR also means you’ll be working with a team who are Safe Contractor Accredited.