Old Maytag Washer Not Draining

Introduction

Discovering your old Maytag washer won’t drain is frustrating. Clothes stay soaking wet, and the standing water can quickly become a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This issue is common in older washers as components wear out over time. Addressing this problem promptly can prevent further damage and keep your laundry routine on track. Don’t panic often, the fix is simpler than you think!

Common Causes of old maytag washer not draining

Here are some of the most common reasons why your old Maytag washer might be refusing to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water from the washer to the drainpipe can become blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many Maytag washers have a filter that catches debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can become clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for actively pumping the water out of the washer. If the pump is broken or worn out, it won’t be able to do its job.
Blocked Drainpipe: The drainpipe where the washer’s drain hose connects can be clogged.
Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose restricts water flow. A damaged hose might also leak and hinder draining.
Lid Switch Problems: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch (which detects if the lid is closed) is faulty.
Drive Belt Issues: In some older models, a worn or broken drive belt can prevent the pump from operating.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: An air lock can prevent the water from properly siphoning out of the washer.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the problem accurately:

Washer is full of water after the wash cycle.
Washer makes a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
Water drains very slowly.
Error code related to draining appears on the washer’s display (if applicable).
Clothes are soaking wet after the cycle ends.
You find small objects or lint in the bottom of the washer.

How to Fix old maytag washer not draining Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before attempting any repairs. Safety first!
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or damage. Straighten any kinks and replace the hose if it’s damaged.
Check the Drain Hose Connection: Make sure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
Clean the Drain Hose: Detach the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Flush it out with water to remove any clogs. A garden hose can be helpful here.
Check the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe isn’t clogged. You can use a plumber’s snake or drain auger to clear any blockages.
Locate and Clean 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 or back of the machine, near the bottom. Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, visually inspect the drain pump for any obstructions. You may be able to reach in and clear any debris.
Manually Test the Drain Pump: (Optional, proceed with caution) Carefully try to spin the pump impeller (the fan-like part inside the pump) with your finger (washer unplugged!). If it’s stuck, there’s likely a blockage.
Check the Lid Switch: Open and close the washer lid several times to see if the lid switch is functioning correctly. If the washer doesn’t start when you close the lid, the lid switch might be faulty.
Reset the Washer: Some washers can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear temporary glitches.
Check the Drive Belt: (For older models only) If your washer has a drive belt, inspect it for wear or breakage. A broken belt will need to be replaced. This usually requires removing the washer’s cabinet.
Run a Test Cycle: After performing these steps, plug the washer back in and run a short test cycle to see if it drains properly.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the washer during the drain cycle. This can help you identify the source of the problem.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacing parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes to reset the internal computer.
Deep Cleaning: Run an empty wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup.
Hose Inspection: Thoroughly inspect all hoses for kinks, cracks, or blockages.
Leveling: Ensure the washer is level. An unlevel washer can sometimes have draining issues.
Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can strain the pump.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your old Maytag washer still isn’t draining, the drain pump might be faulty and require replacement. Alternatively, if the washer is very old and other components are failing, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire machine. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD. A new washing machine can range from $400 to $1000+ USD, depending on the features and brand. Common parts to fail include the drain pump, lid switch, and drive belt (on older models).

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water and electrical components.
Clean up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Never operate the washer with the cabinet open or any safety guards removed.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Bucket
Shop towels
Plumber’s snake or drain auger
Garden hose (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer draining problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates a blocked drain pump or a faulty pump motor.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump is making unusual noises, not pumping water, or is visibly damaged, it likely needs to be replaced.
Q: Can I use vinegar to clean my drain hose? A: Yes, vinegar can help dissolve mineral buildup. Pour a cup of vinegar into the drain hose and let it sit for 30 minutes before flushing with water.
Q: What if I can’t find the drain pump filter? A: Consult your washer’s user manual. If you don’t have the manual, search online for the model number.
Q: How often should I clean my drain pump filter? A: Ideally, you should clean the filter every 3-6 months, depending on how often you use your washer.

Conclusion

Fixing an old Maytag washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting options and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. However, with a little effort, you can often save yourself the cost of a service call and get your washer back in working order!