Maytag Washer Won T Drain Completely

Introduction

Finding water lingering in your Maytag washer after a wash cycle is complete can be frustrating. This issue, where your Maytag washer won’t drain completely, not only leaves your clothes soaking wet but also can potentially lead to mold and mildew growth. If you notice this occurring frequently or even just once, it’s important to address it promptly. Delaying repair can lead to more significant problems and potentially damage other parts of your washing machine. Lets walk through some common causes and solutions to get your washer draining properly again.

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Won’t Drain Completely

Several factors can contribute to a Maytag washer failing to drain completely:

• Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most frequent culprit. Lint, hair, or small objects can block the drain hose, preventing water from flowing out.
• Obstructed Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s clogged with debris (like socks, coins, or buttons), it won’t function effectively.
• Kinked or Blocked Drainpipe: The drainpipe where the washer hose connects could be kinked or clogged further down the line in your plumbing.
• Faulty Drain Pump: Over time, the drain pump motor can weaken or fail, reducing its ability to pump water.
• Lid Switch Problems: If the lid switch is malfunctioning, the washer might not recognize that the lid is closed, preventing the spin cycle (and thus, draining) from starting.
• Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes, an air pocket can form in the drain hose, preventing the water from being siphoned out properly.
• Overuse of Detergent: Excessive detergent can create excessive suds, which interfere with the draining process.
• Damaged or Worn-out Belt (on belt-driven models): If your washer has a belt connecting the motor to the pump, a worn or broken belt will hinder the pump’s operation.

Symptoms Checklist

These symptoms can help you identify the issue accurately:

• Standing water in the washer drum after a cycle.
• The washer stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining or pumping.
• The washer makes unusual noises (grinding, humming) during the drain cycle.
• Clothes are soaking wet after the “spin” cycle.
• Water drains very slowly or not at all.

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

1. Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance. This prevents electric shock.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose (usually at the back of the washer). Check for kinks, bends, or visible obstructions. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose isn’t crushed.
3. Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
4. Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the detached drain hose to dislodge any clogs. You can use a garden hose or a utility sink faucet.
5. Check the Drainpipe: Use a flashlight to inspect the drainpipe where the hose connects. Clear any visible debris or clogs.
6. Access the Drain Pump (if possible): Consult your washer’s manual for the location of the drain pump. Some models have an access panel, while others require removing the front or back panel.
7. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a small filter or trap near the drain pump. Remove this filter and clean out any lint, hair, or debris.
8. Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller: Check the impeller (the fan-like part inside the pump) for obstructions. Manually rotate the impeller to ensure it spins freely.
9. Check the Lid Switch: The lid switch ensures the washer doesn’t operate with the lid open. If the switch is faulty, the washer might not drain. Inspect the switch for damage. You might need a multimeter to test its continuity.
10. Run a Test Cycle: Reconnect the drain hose and plug in the washer. Run a short wash/drain cycle to see if the issue is resolved.
11. Check for Error Codes: If the washer displays an error code, consult your owner’s manual for its meaning and suggested solutions. Some codes indicate specific drain problems.
12. Clean the Washer Tub: Run an empty cycle with a washer cleaner to remove any buildup that might be affecting draining.
13. Reduce Detergent Usage: Overuse of detergent can cause excessive suds. Try using less detergent in future loads.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve a “Maytag washer won’t drain completely” problem without spending money:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can reset the electronic controls and clear any minor glitches.
• Clean the Washer Regularly: Run an empty cycle with a washer cleaner or a cup of white vinegar every month to prevent buildup.
• Inspect Hoses Periodically: Check the drain hose and water inlet hoses for kinks, cracks, or leaks every few months.
• Balance Loads: Unevenly distributed loads can cause the washer to vibrate excessively and affect draining. Ensure loads are balanced.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

While troubleshooting can resolve many issues, sometimes replacement parts are needed. The drain pump is a common component that fails. A new drain pump can cost between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model. If the lid switch is faulty, replacing it might be necessary; these switches typically range from $20 to $50 USD. However, if the washer is very old or has other significant problems, consider whether the cost of repair is worth it compared to buying a new machine.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when working with water to avoid electric shock.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• Mop up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket
• Flashlight
• Adjustable wrench
• Gloves
• Multimeter (optional, for testing lid switch)

FAQ

1. Q: Why is my washer making a loud noise when it tries to drain? A: This could indicate an obstruction in the drain pump. Check the pump for debris like socks or coins.
2. Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump makes a humming noise but doesn’t pump water, or if it doesn’t make any noise at all, it might be faulty.
3. Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: No, avoid using liquid drain cleaners as they can damage the washer’s components.
4. Q: My washer drains slowly. What should I check first? A: Start by inspecting the drain hose for kinks or clogs. This is the most common cause of slow draining.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Maytag washer that won’t drain completely can seem daunting, but with a systematic approach, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. By following these steps, you’ll save money on repair costs and extend the life of your appliance. If you’ve tried all these solutions and your washer still isn’t draining properly, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

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