The Model 4500 is a Vertical Trash Compactor which uses much less floor space than its horizontal counterparts. Primarily intended for hand feeding from front, it may also be adapted for connection to a trash chute. Completely self-contained and aesthetically pleasing, it may be installed anywhere by simply plugging in its electrical power cord. Despite its compact size, the unit has sufficient power to produce compaction ratios as high as 10 to 1 to fill a 6.84 cu. ft. trash bag with 50-200 lbs. of compacted trash. Ram stroke and hydraulic pressure are both adjustable to control size and weight of compacted package. A positively latched loading door with electrical interlock prevents operation when door is open. The electrical system includes a 1 HP, 115/230 volt, single phase, internally protected drip-proof motor with 115 volt control circuit.