My Maytag Bravos Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

Is your Maytag Bravos washer stubbornly holding onto water after the wash cycle? A washer that won’t drain is a common problem, but it can quickly become a headache. It prevents you from doing laundry, can create unpleasant odors, and potentially even lead to water damage in your home. Addressing this issue promptly is important to avoid further complications and get your laundry routine back on track.

Common Causes of My Maytag Bravos Washer Won’t Drain

Several factors can cause your Maytag Bravos washer to refuse to drain. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose carries wastewater away from the washer. If it becomes kinked, twisted, or blocked with lint, socks, or other debris, the water can’t escape.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump has a filter designed to catch debris before it reaches the pump itself. A clogged filter restricts water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for actively pumping the water out of the washer. If the pump is damaged or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to do its job.
Blocked Drainpipe: The drainpipe in your wall can become clogged, preventing the washer from draining properly.
Air Lock: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain system, creating an “air lock” that prevents water from flowing freely.
Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch ensures the washer doesn’t operate with the lid open. A faulty switch can sometimes prevent the drain cycle from starting.
Control Board Issues: In rare cases, a malfunctioning control board can send incorrect signals, preventing the drain cycle from activating.
Overuse of Detergent: Using too much detergent can create excessive suds that interfere with the draining process.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s a checklist to help you confirm that your washer isn’t draining and potentially identify the cause:

Water remains in the washer drum after the wash cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle, but no water is being pumped out.
The washer displays an error code related to draining. (Refer to your owner’s manual for code meanings.)
The drain hose is kinked or appears to be blocked.
Water is draining very slowly.

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

Unplug the Washer: Before you start any troubleshooting, disconnect the washer from the power outlet for safety.
Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for kinks, twists, or blockages. Straighten any kinks and detach the hose from the drainpipe.
Clear the Drain Hose: Flush the drain hose with water to dislodge any debris. You can use a garden hose or a sink faucet.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter is usually located at the front of the washer, near the bottom. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Access the Drain Pump Filter: You may need to remove a small access panel to reach the filter. Have a shallow pan and some towels ready, as some water will likely spill out.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew the filter cap and remove the filter. Clean any lint, hair, coins, or other debris from the filter.
Inspect the Drain Pump: While the filter is removed, shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing and check for any obstructions. You can try to gently rotate the pump impeller (the fan-like part inside) with your finger to see if it’s stuck.
Reconnect the Drain Pump Filter: Securely reattach the drain pump filter and access panel.
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe in your wall isn’t clogged. You can use a drain snake or a bent wire to clear any blockages.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short spin cycle to see if it drains properly.
Check for Error Codes: If the washer still doesn’t drain, check for any error codes on the display panel. Consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps related to the specific code.
Try a Reset: Some Maytag Bravos washers can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear minor electrical glitches.
Check Lid Switch: Manually depress the lid switch while the washer is running (carefully!). If the washer starts draining, the lid switch might be faulty.
Reduce Detergent Use: For the next few loads, try using less detergent to see if excessive suds are contributing to the problem.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, a washer that won’t drain can be fixed without spending money on new parts. Regularly cleaning the drain pump filter and drain hose is an essential part of washer maintenance. You can also try recalibrating your washer according to the owner’s manual instructions. This can sometimes resolve issues caused by electronic glitches. A simple reset (unplugging the washer for 5-10 minutes) is always a good first step.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and your Maytag Bravos washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself may be faulty. Replacing the drain pump is a more involved repair, and if you’re not comfortable with appliance repair, it’s best to call a qualified technician. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, plus the cost of labor if you hire a professional.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when working with water and electricity. Avoid contact with wet floors.
If you’re not comfortable with electrical repairs, call a qualified technician.
Use caution when handling tools and sharp objects.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan
Towels
Flashlight
Drain snake or bent wire

FAQ

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Check the drain pump filter for obstructions.

Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: It’s a good idea to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, or more often if you wash a lot of lint-producing items.

Q: My washer is displaying an error code related to draining. What should I do?
A: Consult your owner’s manual for the meaning of the error code and specific troubleshooting steps.

Q: Can I use bleach to unclog the drain hose?
A: It’s generally not recommended to use bleach directly in the drain hose, as it can damage the hose and potentially harm the washer. Use water and a gentle flushing action instead.

Q: Water is leaking when I am checking the drain pump filter?
A: Yes this is normal to have some water leakage when you are checking the drain pump filter. Just use towels or a pan to collect it.

Q: How to prevent drain clogs in the future?
A: Clean the lint filter, use the correct amount of HE detergent, and inspect your drain pump regularly.

Conclusion

A Maytag Bravos washer that won’t drain can be frustrating, but often the problem is something simple that you can fix yourself. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can save yourself the cost of a service call and get your laundry routine back on track. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and are still having trouble, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance technician.