Maytag Centennial Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. Not only does it leave your clothes soaking wet, but it also prevents you from starting another load. This often happens mid-cycle, or at the very end, leaving you with a tub full of water and laundry. It’s important to address this issue promptly to avoid potential water damage to your home and prevent mold growth in your washer. This guide will walk you through common causes and step-by-step solutions for a Maytag Centennial washer that won’t drain.

Common Causes of Maytag Centennial Washer Won’t Drain

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Maytag Centennial washer might be refusing to drain:. For more related activities, check out our My Lg Front Load Washer Won T Turn On.

• Clogged Drain Hose: A kinked or blocked drain hose restricts water flow.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: The filter traps lint, hair, and debris, which can accumulate and block the pump.
• Drain Pump Malfunction: The drain pump itself might be broken or worn out.
• Lid Switch Problem: The lid switch ensures the washer only operates when the lid is closed. If it’s faulty, the drain cycle may not activate.
• Blocked or Clogged Standpipe: If the standpipe (the pipe the drain hose empties into) is clogged, the washer can’t drain.
• Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing proper drainage.
• Faulty Control Board: Although less common, a problem with the washer’s control board can prevent it from initiating the drain cycle.
• Overloading the Washer: Excessively large loads can strain the drain pump and cause it to malfunction.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to confirm the drain issue:

• Washer completes the wash cycle but the tub remains full of water.
• You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the washer, but no water is being pumped out.
• The washer stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining.
• The drain hose appears kinked or blocked.
• The standpipe is overflowing when the washer attempts to drain.

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

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the drainage problem:

1. Unplug the Washer: Disconnect the power cord from the outlet for safety.
2. Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for kinks, bends, or blockages. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose isn’t crushed.
3. Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the standpipe and the back of the washer.
4. Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the drain hose to dislodge any debris. You can use a garden hose for more pressure.
5. Check the Standpipe: Make sure the standpipe is not clogged. Use a plumbing snake or a straightened wire coat hanger to clear any obstructions.
6. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter is usually located at the front or bottom of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your washer’s manual for the exact location.
7. Access the Drain Pump Filter: Place a shallow pan or towel under the access panel to catch any water that may spill. Open the panel.
8. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter. It might be held in place by a screw or a clip. Clean the filter thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
9. Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller: While the filter is removed, use a flashlight to look inside the drain pump housing. Check for any obstructions, such as small objects or clothing fibers, that may be blocking the impeller (the rotating part of the pump).
10. Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the drain pump filter and secure the access panel. Reattach the drain hose to the standpipe and the washer.
11. Plug in the Washer: Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
12. Run a Test Cycle: Set the washer to a spin cycle to test the drain function. Observe if the washer drains properly.
13. Check for Leaks: During and after the spin cycle, check for any leaks around the drain hose connections and the drain pump area.
14. Run another rinse and spin cycle: Do this to make sure there is no water leak.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free solutions:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
• Clean the Washer Tub: Run an empty washer cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and prevent clogs.
• Avoid Overloading: Make sure you are not overfilling your washer. Large loads can put strain on the drain pump.
• Inspect the Lid Switch: Manually depress the lid switch (with the washer unplugged!) to see if it feels loose or broken. This is difficult to definitively diagnose without a multimeter, but checking for obvious damage is a good start.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself might be faulty and require replacement. A replacement drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD. The lid switch could also be a potential candidate for replacement. Control boards are also possible, but you should always seek professional repair at this stage.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls.
• If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances, call a qualified technician.
• Do not attempt to disassemble the drain pump or control board unless you have experience with appliance repair.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket or shallow pan
• Towels
• Plumbing snake or wire coat hanger
• Flashlight

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machine drainage problems:

• Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?
  A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to operate but is blocked by an obstruction or is faulty. Check the drain pump filter for clogs.
• Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
  A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items.
• Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine?
  A: No, chemical drain cleaners can damage the washer’s components. It’s best to manually clear any obstructions.
• Q: What if the washer drains slowly?
  A: Slow draining can be caused by a partially clogged drain hose, drain pump filter, or standpipe. Check and clean each of these components.
• Q: My washer is displaying an error code. What should I do?
  A: Consult your washer’s manual to identify the meaning of the error code. The manual may provide specific troubleshooting steps for that code.

Conclusion

Don’t panic when your Maytag Centennial washer refuses to drain! By following these steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving time and money. If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting options and the issue persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!