Maytag Washer Won T Drain All The Way

Introduction

Finding your Maytag washer filled with water after a wash cycle is frustrating. It means your clothes are soaked, and you can’t start the next load. This problem, where your Maytag washer won’t drain all the way, is often due to a simple blockage, but if left unresolved, it can lead to bigger issues like mold growth or even damage to the washer’s pump. Let’s troubleshoot and get your washer back in working order!

Common Causes of Maytag Washer Won’t Drain All the Way

Here are some of the common reasons why your Maytag washer is leaving water behind:

• Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most frequent culprit. Lint, hair, and small objects can accumulate in the hose, restricting water flow.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Many Maytag washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the pump. A full filter will prevent proper draining.
• Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose will obviously restrict water flow.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out. If it’s failing, it may not be able to drain effectively.
• Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes, air trapped in the drain hose can prevent water from flowing freely.
• Clogged House Drain: The problem might not be the washer itself but the house drain it empties into.
• Lid Switch Issues: On some older models, a malfunctioning lid switch can prevent the washer from entering the drain cycle.
• Control Board Malfunction: While less common, a problem with the washer’s control board can sometimes interfere with the drain cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Check for these symptoms to help pinpoint the issue:

• Standing water in the washer drum after a wash cycle.
• The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
• The washer doesn’t make any sound during the drain cycle.
• Error codes related to draining problems on the washer’s display panel.
• Water draining very slowly.

How to Fix Maytag Washer Won’t Drain All the Way Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Maytag washer:

1. Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance.
2. Check the Drain Hose (Kinks): Inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any kinks, twists, or bends. Straighten the hose if necessary.
3. Check the Drain Hose (Blockage): Detach the drain hose from the back of the washer. Hold it up and see if water flows out freely. If not, there’s likely a blockage.
4. Flush the Drain Hose: Use a garden hose or a sink faucet to flush out any debris from the drain hose. Reattach the hose to the washer.
5. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front of the machine, behind a small access panel.
6. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the access panel and then unscrew or pull out the filter. Be prepared for some water to spill out. Clean the filter thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, or other debris.
7. Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, inspect the drain pump impeller (the fan-like part inside). Make sure it can spin freely. Remove any visible obstructions.
8. Check the House Drain: Make sure the drain pipe where the washer empties isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
9. Check Lid Switch (older models): For older top-load washers, visually inspect the lid switch. Ensure it’s not damaged and is being properly engaged when the lid is closed.
10. Reset the Washer: Some washers can be reset by unplugging them for 1-2 minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear minor control board glitches.
11. Test Drain Cycle: After completing the above steps, plug the washer back in and run a drain/spin cycle to see if the issue is resolved.
12. Listen for Unusual Noises: During the drain cycle, listen for any unusual noises coming from the drain pump. This could indicate a failing pump.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some free ways to troubleshoot the issue:

• Reset the Washer: As mentioned before, unplugging and replugging is the first thing to try.
• Deep Clean the Washer: Use a washer cleaner to remove buildup inside the machine.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check for kinks and clogs on a regular basis to prevent problems.
• Reduce Detergent Use: Excessive detergent can contribute to buildup and clogs.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain properly, the drain pump might be failing and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the model. Control board issues are rarer but more expensive to fix, potentially costing $200-$400. Sometimes, the most economical solution is to consider replacing the entire washer, especially if it’s an older model.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls.
• If you’re uncomfortable with electrical or plumbing work, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket
• Towels
• Garden hose or sink faucet
• Plumbing snake (optional)

FAQ

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

• Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A clogged drain hose or pump filter is the most likely cause.
• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump makes a loud humming noise but doesn’t drain, or if it’s completely silent, it might be failing.
• Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washer? A: It’s generally not recommended as it can damage the washer’s components.
• Q: My washer is giving me an error code related to draining. What does that mean? A: Consult your washer’s manual to determine the specific meaning of the error code and follow the troubleshooting steps recommended by the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Maytag washer that won’t drain all the way can often be resolved with a little investigation and some basic cleaning. By following these steps, you can potentially save yourself the cost of a service call. However, if you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

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