Choosing when to upgrade to a trash compactor from the typical dumpster can be challenging. At Harmony Enterprises, we have helped to guide many of our customers through the process of choosing a dumpster or trash compactor based on their needs. Here is some information to help you weigh out your options.
Dumpster
Dumpsters typically range from 10-Yard containers to 30-yard containers. They are often emptied by a waste hauler on a weekly or biweekly basis. Dumpsters can be used for a wide range of trash materials such as household or office waste, scrap metal, demolition debris, cardboard, etc. Dumpsters are used by homeowners, business owners, schools, hospitals, and contractors.
Trash Compactor
In comparison, trash compactors are used by those who generate a larger amount of trash. There are outdoor trash compactors, as well as indoor trash compactors that are often called Indoor Packers. Companies such as retail and shopping centers, quick service restaurants, or hospitality businesses who have high traffic and generate a lot of trash each day use trash compactor. Some may even have SmartPack Trash Compactors that replace the traditional trash can in a restaurant or hospitality setting. Trash compactors fit more trash than dumpsters because the trash is compressed each time trash it dumped into it. A trash compactor doesn’t fill up as quickly as a dumpster and therefore doesn’t need as many pickups by the waste hauler.
Dumpster or Trash Compactor? Some Considerations…
1. How much trash do you generate? Is your current dumpster overflowing? If so, a trash compactor may be a better option that a dumpster since you will fit more trash in the same area.
2. Are rodents currently an issue with your dumpster? Trash compactors are sealed more tightly than dumpsters, making it harder for rodents to get in and make a mess.
3. Do you see a cost-savings potential for waste hauling costs? If your waste hauler charges per pickup, a trash compactor could provide significant savings with fewer pickups. If your waste hauler charges by weight, a trash compactor may make the pickups more expensive since the haul will be heavier.
4. Can you afford new waste management equipment? Of course, the cost for any new equipment needs to be considered. Obviously, a trash compactor will cost more than a conventional dumpster. However, Harmony Enterprises offers trash compactors for rent or for purchase to meet the many needs of our customers. We can also help you to figure out how long it would take to realize a return on investment on the trash compactor, considering both the trash compactor cost and monthly waste hauling savings.
It is important to weigh out your options before investing in another dumpster or upgrading to a trash compactor. Many companies find that as their business grows, so does their trash. A quick return on investment is possible with a trash compactor if you can also reduce your waste hauling pickups (see how this nursing home saved $900 a month).
Harmony Enterprises, Inc. can offer solutions to all of your recycling and waste management needs: trash compactors and balers, full product destruction equipment, solar energy options, and more. We also provide industry leading customer service and warranty options as part of a total global solutions approach. We care about the environment and are ready to help you find a waste management solution, whether that be a baler, dumpster or trash compactor. If you are interested in learning more about our waste management and recycling products, please contact us here or call us at (507) 886-6666.
