Maytag Washer Won T Drain In Spin Cycle

Introduction

Discovering your Maytag washer won’t drain properly, especially during the spin cycle, is frustrating. It leaves your clothes sopping wet, extends laundry time, and can even lead to unpleasant odors or mold growth in your machine. It’s a common issue that many homeowners face, often occurring after washing bulky items or noticing slower draining over time. Addressing this problem promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and maintain your washer’s performance.

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Won’t Drain in Spin Cycle

Several factors can contribute to a Maytag washer not draining during the spin cycle:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is a frequent culprit. Lint, small objects, or debris can accumulate in the hose, restricting water flow.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Maytag washers have a filter to catch large debris before it reaches the pump. If this filter is clogged, the pump can’t effectively remove water.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s malfunctioning, it might not have the power to drain correctly.
Obstructed Drainpipe: The drainpipe where your washer empties might be blocked. A clog in the house plumbing can affect the washer’s drainage.
Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose restricts water flow, while damage can cause leaks and drainage problems.
Air Lock in Drain System: Sometimes, air gets trapped in the drain system, preventing water from flowing freely.
Defective Lid Switch: Although less common, if the lid switch isn’t functioning properly, the washer may not engage the spin cycle (and therefore won’t drain).
Control Board Issues: Rarely, a problem with the washer’s electronic control board can prevent the drain cycle from activating.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the draining issue:

Washer fills with water but doesn’t drain after the wash cycle.
Washer stops mid-cycle with standing water in the drum.
Clothes are soaking wet after the spin cycle.
You hear a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle, but no water is being pumped out.
Error codes related to draining appear on the washer’s display panel.
Water drains very slowly.

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

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the draining problem:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, disconnect the power cord from the outlet before beginning any repairs.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer. Check for kinks, bends, or obstructions. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose isn’t crushed.
Detach and Clean the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Flush the hose with water to remove any debris. Use a long, flexible brush to dislodge stubborn clogs.
Check the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe where the washer empties isn’t blocked. Use a plumbing snake or auger to clear any obstructions in the drainpipe.
Locate and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: The filter is usually located at the front, bottom of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your washer’s manual for the exact location.
Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or towels beneath the access panel to catch any water that may spill out when removing the filter.
Remove and Clean the Filter: Carefully unscrew or unclip the drain pump filter. Remove any lint, debris, or small objects that may be clogging it. Rinse the filter thoroughly with water.
Reinstall the Filter: Once the filter is clean, carefully reinsert it into its housing and secure it properly.
Check the Drain Pump: (Advanced) If the filter is clean and the washer still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty. Access the pump (usually from the rear or bottom of the washer) and check for any visible damage or obstructions. (Warning: This may require disassembling parts of the washer, if unsure, consult a professional)
Check the Lid Switch: Make sure the lid switch is engaging properly when the lid is closed. Sometimes, these switches can become loose or faulty. Gently clean around the switch area.
Reset the Washer: Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve the issue. Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in and try running a drain and spin cycle.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a washer cleaner to remove buildup inside the drum and pipes. This can help prevent future clogs.
Test the Washer: After completing these steps, run a test cycle to see if the washer drains properly. Observe the drainage process to ensure water is being pumped out effectively.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, the draining issue can be resolved without replacing any parts. Try these methods:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned above, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can sometimes clear minor electronic glitches.
Deep Cleaning: Run a washer cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to dissolve buildup and prevent future clogs.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the drain pump filter every few months to prevent debris accumulation.
Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can strain the drain pump and contribute to clogs.
Proper Loading: Place small items inside a mesh laundry bag to avoid loose items getting caught in the drain.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, you might need to replace a part. The most common parts to fail are the drain pump (estimated cost $50-$150 USD) and occasionally, the lid switch ($20-$50 USD). If the control board is the problem (rare), replacement could cost between $100-$300 USD. If unsure, a qualified appliance technician can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate replacement.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid electric shock.
Clean up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you are uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Plumbing snake or auger
Flexible brush
Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A partially clogged drain hose or drain pump filter is often the cause of slow drainage.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: It’s generally not recommended as they can damage the washer’s components. Try the methods mentioned above or call a professional.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: Clean the filter every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer and the type of loads you wash.
Q: What does it mean when my washer gives me a drain error code? A: Drain error codes typically indicate a problem with the drain pump, drain hose, or drainpipe. Consult your washer’s manual for specific error code meanings.

Conclusion

A Maytag washer that won’t drain in the spin cycle can be a frustrating problem, but often it can be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps. By following this guide, you can diagnose and fix the issue yourself, saving time and money. However, if you are uncomfortable with any of these steps or the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance. Good luck!