The GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor is a solid choice and priced towards the mid-range of the market. Controls are hidden behind the compactor door, while a removable key lock adds an extra level of safety while the compactor is in use.
While it does come with useful features, if you’re looking for a turbo crushing mode or odor control, you’ll need to spend a bit more on a trash compactor. Check out our round-up of the best trash compactors to compare prices and features.
GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor: Pricing and value
With an average price of just under $1,000, the GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor sits in the middle of the market. Design-wise, it certainly has a premium look. Hidden controls mean no buttons or dials spoil the streamlined stainless steel finish and the noise reduction system is a nice feature usually limited to premium models, but otherwise it does fall a little short on features.
If you’re looking for a trash compactor that does the job but you’re not too bothered about looks, then you could find better value from the Gladiator Trash Compactor, which is situated more towards the budget end of the market. But if you want a good design and premium features to match, you could be better served by the KitchenAid KTTS505ESS Trash Compactor. The KitchenAid is more expensive, but it has plenty of style and substance.
GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor: Features
The GE Trash Compactor features simple and easy operation options, as well as a few features to make your life that bit easier.
The hands-free toe pedal opener means you can quickly throw away handfuls of rubbish without needing to perform a balancing act to juggle the trash and open the compactor. Thanks to a removable drawer, the GE Trash Compactor is a cinch to empty and clean, while automatic anti-jam allows it to handle difficult loads reliably.
The appliance is built-in only and comes with optional custom paneling to help it hide away amongst kitchen cupboards, but rear wheels do allow for easy movement and installation.
With a three-to-one compaction ratio (which means it can crush three bags of trash into one), it’s definitely less powerful than other models on our trash compactor list, most of which achieve either a four-to-one or five-to-one ratio. The one third HP motor is pretty standard across the market though.
GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor: User reviews
Overall, users on Home Depot rate the GE Trash Compactor well, at an average rating of 3.8 out of 5. Reviews tend to commend how easy it is to use as well as its simple and sleek design. A number are disappointed at the lack of a turbo or extra pack setting, which would provide more powerful trash compaction when needed. A few reviews note that they just don’t find it powerful enough, with one reviewer finding their model had a tendency to overflow when opened.
Opinions are mixed about the noise it produces, despite the noise reduction system. Some complain that the appliance is too loud and obtrusive, while other reviews commend how quiet the compactor is. Some also comment that they find it a bit basic for the price.
Overall, users commented that the GE Trash Compactor is a good and reliable option, if not a particularly powerful one.
Should you buy a GE UCG1680LSS Trash Compactor?
The GE Trash Compactor is a good appliance, if a little on the simple side in terms of the features available. It is from a well-known and reliable brand and offers great aesthetics at a mid-range price-point. But, if it’s power or a selection of features you’re after, you might find better value if you splash the cash a bit more and look to a higher-end option for your trash compaction needs.
