Maytag Washer Clean Drain

Introduction

A “clean drain” message or a washer that won’t drain properly on your Maytag washing machine can be a frustrating issue. It means your washer’s system detects a potential problem with the drain pump or drain hose. This often happens after washing large loads of laundry, dealing with pet hair, or after prolonged use. If left unaddressed, it can lead to water damage in your laundry room and prevent your clothes from being properly cleaned. Addressing this problem quickly is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure your washer functions correctly.

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Clean Drain Issues

Here are some common reasons why your Maytag washer might be displaying a “clean drain” error or failing to drain properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: Lint, small objects (coins, buttons), and soap residue can accumulate in the drain hose, restricting water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Most washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can become clogged.
Blocked Drain Pump: Larger objects can sometimes make their way past the filter and get lodged in the drain pump itself.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts the flow of water.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing the pump from working efficiently.
Drain Standpipe is Too High or Low: The height of the drain standpipe (the pipe the drain hose empties into) needs to be within a certain range for proper drainage.
Slow House Drain: If your house drain is partially clogged, it can back up into the washer.
Faulty Drain Pump: Although less common initially, the drain pump itself can fail over time.
Software Glitch: Occasionally, a software glitch can trigger a false “clean drain” error.

Symptoms Checklist

If you’re experiencing drain issues, check for the following symptoms:

Washer displays a “clean drain” error message.
Water remains in the washer drum after the cycle ends.
Washer drains very slowly.
Unusual noises (grinding, humming) during the drain cycle.
Water backs up into the drain standpipe.
Clothes are excessively wet after the spin cycle.

How to Fix Maytag Washer Clean Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug your washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Make sure the drain hose isn’t bent or twisted. Straighten any kinks you find.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drain standpipe.
Lower the Drain Hose: Temporarily lower the drain hose into a bucket to see if gravity helps drain the water. If it does, the problem might be with the height of the drain standpipe.
Check the Drain Standpipe Height: Ensure the top of the standpipe is within the manufacturer’s recommended height range (usually between 30 and 96 inches).
Clean the Drain Pump Filter:
- Locate the drain pump filter access panel (usually at the bottom front of the washer).
- Place a shallow pan or towels to catch any spilled water.
- Carefully open the access panel and remove the filter.
- Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water to remove any debris.
- Reinstall the filter securely.
Check the Drain Pump:
- After removing the filter, inspect the drain pump opening for any visible obstructions (coins, buttons, etc.).
- You might be able to carefully reach in with pliers to remove any debris.
- Note: Be very careful not to damage the pump impeller (the fan-like part inside).
Flush the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the drain standpipe. Use a garden hose to flush water through the drain hose to dislodge any remaining debris.
Check the House Drain: Make sure the house drain isn’t clogged. If other drains in your home are slow, this could be the issue. Try using a drain cleaner specifically designed for removing clogs.
Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear a software glitch.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many Maytag washers have a cleaning cycle. Run this cycle with a washer cleaner to remove buildup and residue.
Check Air Vent Hose: Look for a small hose that vents to the air. Make sure this is not blocked or pinched.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many drain problems can be resolved without replacing any parts. Try these free methods first:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned earlier, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can resolve minor software glitches.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter Regularly: Make it a habit to clean the drain pump filter every few months to prevent clogs.
Inspect and Straighten the Drain Hose Periodically: Check for kinks and ensure the hose is securely connected.
Use the Correct Amount of Detergent: Overusing detergent can lead to buildup and clogs. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Run Regular Cleaning Cycles: Use a washer cleaner regularly to keep your washer clean and prevent buildup.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still isn’t draining properly, the drain pump might be faulty and require replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model. The drain hose could also be damaged beyond repair. A replacement drain hose is relatively inexpensive, usually costing between $20 and $40 USD. Drain pumps are parts commonly failing after many years.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
Avoid working on electrical appliances near wet surfaces.
Be careful when handling the drain pump filter, as it may contain sharp objects.
If you’re not comfortable performing any of these repairs, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Here are some tools you might find helpful:

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Bucket
Garden hose
Washer cleaner

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Maytag washer drain problems:

Q: Why is my washer displaying a “clean drain” error even after I cleaned the filter?

A: There may be a blockage further down the drain hose or in the drain pump itself. Try flushing the drain hose and inspecting the pump opening.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?

A: Ideally, clean the filter every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items or pet bedding.
Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washing machine?

A: No, liquid drain cleaners can damage the washer’s components. Use a washer cleaner specifically designed for washing machines.
Q: What if my washer drains fine sometimes, but not others?

A: This could indicate a partial blockage or a faulty drain pump that’s starting to fail. Continue troubleshooting and consider replacing the pump if the problem persists.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a “clean drain” issue on your Maytag washer can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the problem yourself. Remember to start with the simplest solutions, like checking for kinks and cleaning the filter, before moving on to more complex repairs. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still isn’t draining properly, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Hopefully, this guide has equipped you to take the first steps toward restoring your washer to proper working order!