The Evolution of Extended Producer Responsibility for Plastic Waste
The Evolution of Extended Producer Responsibility for Plastic Waste
Apartment Trash Chutes: Everything You Need to Know
Apartment trash chutes are a convenient and efficient way to dispose of garbage in high-rise and mid-rise buildings. But how do they work, what can you throw in them, and how do you maintain them? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer all these questions and more.
What are Apartment Chutes Used for?
The primary use of an apartment chute is to dispose of garbage in a hygienic way. You simply open the door of the chute on your floor, place the trash inside, and close the door. The garbage then goes directly to the central waste location, such as a dumpster or a compactor. Some residential buildings also have separate recycling chutes for recyclable garbage, and hotels use linen chutes to transfer linens or laundry materials.
How Do Apartment Trash Chutes Work?
Trash chutes are typically made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminized steel, with a door for garbage intake on each floor. Chute support frames made of steel and bar stock are also present on each floor. The diameter of garbage chutes can range from 20-36 inches, and the discharge door is at the bottom of the tube, connected to the compactor or dumpster. Modern apartment chutes even have a flushing spray feature to clean and refresh the system.
Where Does Garbage Go Once You Place it in an Apartment Garbage Chute?
The destination of the garbage depends on the size of the building. In high-rise buildings, it’s common practice to place a commercial trash compactor at the bottom of the apartment chute. In mid-size buildings, the trash goes into the dumpster due to space constraints.
What Type of Trash Can You Put in Garbage Chutes?
All types of garbage, except hazardous waste, can go in a chute. However, it’s important to dispose of waste properly to prevent it from getting stuck in the chute. Always put garbage in well-tied garbage bags, and use small bags so they can easily reach the bottom. When using the recycling chute, flatten the cartons and packaging before throwing them in. Avoid putting anything other than linen in a laundry chute.
What Type of Trash Can’t You Put in Garbage Chutes?
Certain items should never go in a trash chute, such as Christmas lights, trees, wreaths, and garlands, burning cigarettes or cigars, cleaning liquids and disinfectants, and unfastened pizza boxes and other packaging. These items can clog or damage the chute, create fire hazards, or attract pests.
How Do You Maintain Apartment Garbage Chutes?
Proper maintenance of apartment garbage chutes is crucial to ensure their continued functionality and prevent any health hazards. Hire a trash chute cleaning company to regularly clean, deodorize, and sanitize the chute. Take out the trash daily to ensure small garbage bags, check the latches and hinges of the chute doors regularly, and crush and flatten packaging boxes before disposal. Use a garbage disposal for food waste and throw recyclable materials in the recycling chute only.
Can You Prevent Pest Infestation by Cleaning Trash Chutes?
Yes, regular cleaning and maintenance of apartment chutes can prevent pest infestation. An unclean chute with a foul smell can attract rodents, and once a few get in, they quickly multiply. Therefore, always keep the chute clean and sanitized.
How Do You Clean a Garbage Chute?
It’s best to make an annual contract with professional trash chute cleaning services to ensure timely cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing. Emergency chute cleaning services are expensive and not readily available, so it’s crucial to have a contract in place.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apartment trash chutes are an essential part of high-rise and mid-rise buildings as they provide a convenient and sanitary way to dispose of garbage. Knowing how to use them properly and what type of waste can and cannot be thrown in is crucial to ensure their proper functioning and maintenance. Proper maintenance of the chute, regular cleaning, and taking preventive measures can help prevent foul odor, pest infestation, and fire hazards. By following these guidelines, you can help maintain a clean and safe environment for yourself and your community.