Maytag Washer Won T Spin And Drain

Introduction

Finding your Maytag washer full of water and your clothes soaking wet after a wash cycle is incredibly frustrating. A washer that won’t spin and drain means wet clothes you can’t dry, potential water damage to your home, and the inconvenience of rewashing everything. This issue often arises after a normal wash cycle completes, leaving you wondering what went wrong. Addressing this problem quickly is essential to prevent mold growth and minimize disruption to your laundry routine. Let’s walk through how to get your Maytag washer back in working order!

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Won’t Spin and Drain

Here are some of the most common reasons why your Maytag washer might be refusing to spin and drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: A blockage in the drain hose prevents water from exiting the washer.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: The filter designed to catch lint and small objects can become clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump responsible for removing water might be broken.
Lid Switch Malfunction: The lid switch prevents the washer from spinning if the lid isn’t properly closed.
Blocked Air Dome/Pressure Hose: A blockage prevents the washer from detecting water levels.
Overloading the Washer: Too many clothes can prevent proper spinning and draining.
Drive Belt Issues: (If your Maytag has a belt) A worn or broken drive belt can prevent the drum from spinning.
Control Board Problems: A malfunctioning control board might not be sending the correct signals to the drain pump or motor.
Kinked or Blocked Standpipe: The house plumbing drain connection (standpipe) is blocked up.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to help pinpoint the problem:

Washer is full of water after the wash cycle.
You hear a humming noise but the washer doesn’t drain.
The washer stops mid-cycle.
The washer displays an error code.
The washer drains very slowly.
Clothes are excessively wet after the cycle finishes.
You hear no sound at all when the drain cycle should be running.

How to Fix Maytag Washer Won’t Spin and Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue:

Unplug the Washer: Before you start, disconnect the washer from the power outlet for safety.
Check the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the standpipe (the drain pipe in the wall). Make sure it’s not kinked, crushed, or blocked. Blow through it to see if air passes freely.
Inspect the Standpipe: Ensure the standpipe isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Most Maytag washers have a drain pump filter located at the front, near the bottom. Consult your user manual for the exact location.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter (have a towel ready to catch any water). Clean out any lint, debris, or small objects blocking it.
Check for Obstructions in the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing. Look for any visible obstructions and remove them with pliers or tweezers.
Examine the Lid Switch: The lid switch is usually located near the lid hinge. Make sure it’s not broken or stuck. You can manually push it down to see if the washer tries to start (with the washer plugged in, use caution!).
Check the Air Dome/Pressure Hose: This hose is usually connected to the bottom of the tub. Disconnect it and ensure it’s not clogged with debris.
Reduce Load Size: If you consistently overload your washer, try washing smaller loads.
Run a Drain and Spin Cycle: After checking the above components, plug the washer back in and try running a drain and spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check Error Codes: If your washer has a display, check for error codes. Consult your user manual for the meaning of the code and possible solutions.
Reset the Washer: Some Maytag washers can be reset by unplugging them for 1-2 minutes and then plugging them back in.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some free methods that might solve the problem:

Reset the Washer: Unplugging and plugging back in can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Thorough Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the washer tub and filter prevents build-up and potential blockages.
Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check the drain hose and inlet hoses for kinks, cracks, or clogs periodically.
Proper Loading Techniques: Avoid overloading the washer to ensure proper spinning and draining.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t spin and drain, the drain pump or the control board might be faulty. Replacing the drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200 (USD), including the part and labor. A control board replacement can range from $150 to $400 (USD). Consider the age of your washer and the cost of repair versus replacement before making a decision. Parts that commonly fail are the drain pump, lid switch, and the control board.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water; mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re not comfortable performing repairs yourself, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Do not attempt to repair the washer if you are not familiar with electrical appliances.
Disconnect water supply to washer before starting any repairs.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Towels
Bucket
Flashlight
Plumbing snake (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer humming but not draining? A: This usually indicates a blockage in the drain pump or drain hose.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump makes no noise or only a humming noise and doesn’t drain water, it might be faulty. You can test it with a multimeter if you’re comfortable.
Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: No, it is not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in your washing machine as they can damage the components.
Q: What does an error code “LF” mean on my Maytag washer? A: “LF” typically indicates a long fill or water supply issue. Check your water supply hoses and inlet valve.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washer.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Maytag washer that won’t spin and drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and resolve the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting options and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. However, many common issues can be fixed with a bit of patience and these simple checks!