Maytag Washer How To Drain Water

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. Nobody wants a tub full of water and wet clothes! This often happens after a normal wash cycle, leaving you with a sopping mess and a halted laundry schedule. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent mold growth, damage to your clothes, and potential flooding.

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Draining Problems

Here are some common reasons why your Maytag washer might not be draining properly:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose carries water from the washer to your drainpipe. It can become blocked with lint, small objects, or debris.
• Clogged Drainpipe: The drainpipe in your wall can also get clogged, preventing water from flowing freely.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s broken or malfunctioning, it won’t drain properly.
• Blocked Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter near the drain pump to catch debris. A clogged filter restricts water flow.
• Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow. Damage, like cracks or holes, can also cause problems.
• Lid Switch Issues: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch is faulty because the washer doesn’t think the lid is closed.
• Overuse of Soap: Too much soap can create excessive suds, interfering with the draining process.
• Control Panel Malfunction: In rare cases, the control panel may malfunction and prevent the drain cycle from activating.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s how to know if your Maytag washer isn’t draining properly:

• Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
• The washer makes unusual noises during the drain cycle (humming, grinding).
• The drain cycle takes much longer than usual.
• Error codes related to draining appear on the control panel.
• Water backs up into the laundry sink or drainpipe.

How to Fix Maytag Washer Draining Problems Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Maytag washer’s draining issue:

1. Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
2. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or bends that might be restricting water flow. Straighten any kinks you find.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is properly connected to both the washer and the drainpipe. Make sure the connections are secure.
4. Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Inspect it for clogs. You can use a long, flexible brush or a garden hose to flush out any debris.
5. Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe in the wall isn’t clogged. You can use a plumber’s snake to clear any blockages.
6. Locate and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Most Maytag washers have a drain pump filter, usually located at the front, bottom corner of the machine, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
7. Prepare for Water Spillage: Before opening the filter access panel, place a shallow container or towels on the floor to catch any water that might spill out.
8. Open the Filter Access Panel and Remove the Filter: Carefully remove the filter. It might be screwed or clipped in place.
9. Clean the Filter: Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water to remove any lint, hair, or debris.
10. Reinstall the Filter: Once the filter is clean, reinsert it into its housing and secure the access panel.
11. Check the Drain Pump (Advanced): If you are comfortable with this step. Locate the drain pump (usually near the filter location, but inside the machine). Disconnect any wires from the pump motor before removing it. Inspect the pump impeller (the rotating part) for obstructions. If you can freely spin the impeller, the pump may be good. Reconnect the wires and proceed.
12. Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short drain cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
13. Check for Error Codes: If the problem persists, check the washer’s control panel for any error codes. Refer to your owner’s manual for the meaning of the codes and possible solutions.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things you can try before considering replacement parts:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control panel and resolve minor issues.
• Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many washers have a self-cleaning cycle that can help remove soap residue and buildup. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions.
• Use the Correct Amount of Detergent: Using too much detergent can create excessive suds, which can interfere with draining. Always use the recommended amount.
• Inspect for Loose Connections: Re-inspect all hose connections, and wire connections after each step.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty and need replacement. Replacing a drain pump can cost between $50 and $200 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. The drain hose itself may need replacement if it is cracked ($15-50). A faulty control board can also prevent draining, and the cost to replace can be significant ($150-$400).

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls. Clean up any spills immediately.
• If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, consult a qualified technician.
• Avoid over-tightening screws or hose clamps, which can damage parts.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket or container
• Towels
• Plumber’s snake (optional)
• Flexible brush or garden hose

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer draining problems:

• Q: Why is my washer making a loud buzzing noise when it tries to drain?

  A: This could indicate a blockage in the drain pump or a failing drain pump motor.

• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?

  A: If the pump is making unusual noises, not draining water, or you can’t freely spin the impeller, it might be bad.

• Q: Can I use a wet/dry vacuum to drain the water?

  A: Yes, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove excess water from the washer drum. Be careful not to damage the drum with the vacuum nozzle.

• Q: How often should I clean my washer’s drain pump filter?

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

Conclusion

Don’t let a washing machine that won’t drain ruin your day! By following these steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve tried everything and are still stuck, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. But with a little effort, you can often get your Maytag washer draining like new again!

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