Owning a Maytag dishwasher brings a certain peace of mind due to its impressive performance and energy efficiency. But just like with any piece of tech, things can go wrong.
A common issue many face is when their Maytag dishwasher won’t start, and an even bigger problem is when it won’t drain. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re counting on clean dishes.
Fortunately, you can try several DIY troubleshooting tips before calling for expensive repairs.
Pro Tip: Quickly fix your Maytag dishwasher not draining by unclogging sump filters, straightening drain hoses, and replacing broken parts like the impeller and drain pump.
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How to Fix Maytag Dishwasher Not Draining?
If your Maytag dishwasher stopped draining, it’s essential first to identify the root cause. Let’s diagnose the potential culprits:
1. Clogged Sump Filters
One of the leading causes behind a Maytag dishwasher’s poor draining is the obstruction in its sump filters.
Comprising of both coarse and fine filters, they have the essential job of trapping food particles.
Over time, these filters become clogged, hindering the water flow and leading to drainage issues.
How to Fix:
Begin by removing the lower dish rack of your Maytag dishwasher. Depending on your model, locate the sump filters and turn them gently in a clockwise direction to remove them.
Clean them thoroughly under warm running water. If you come across stubborn deposits, a soft brush can be helpful. Once cleaned, ensure you securely replace the filters.
2. Blocked Drain Hose
A seemingly innocuous component, the drain hose, can be a major hindrance if it’s kinked or blocked, preventing water flow.
How to Fix:
First, gently extract your dishwasher to inspect the drain hose. Straighten any kinks and manually clear any blockages.
After this, reposition the dishwasher, ensuring the hose isn’t accidentally crimped.
3. Broken Drain Impeller
Functioning in the shadows, the drain impeller, driven by the drain motor, ensures water is expelled from your dishwasher post-cleaning.
But if the impeller’s fins are damaged, it hampers its ability to drain the water effectively.
How to Fix:
Before anything else, prioritize safety. Unplug the dishwasher and shut off its water supply.
With these precautions in place, source a replacement kit suitable for the drain impeller.
Use this kit to replace the damaged impeller, ensuring that the area around it is clean and free of obstructions.
4. Blocked Garbage Disposal
For many homeowners in the US, their Maytag dishwasher connects directly to a garbage disposal.
This setup, while convenient, can become a problem if the garbage disposal gets blocked due to accumulated grease or large food particles.
How to Fix:
To tackle this, mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar and pour the concoction into the basket at the bottom of the dishwasher.
Let it sit for about 15 minutes before flushing it with hot water. Initiating a quick rinse cycle afterward can help in fixing the Maytag dishwasher not draining issue due to blockage.
5. Failed Drain Pump Motor
The drain pump motor is designed to facilitate water exit from the dishwasher.
However, when it malfunctions, it’s a prime reason your Maytag dishwasher stopped draining properly.
How to Fix:
Due to the technical nature of this component, it’s often wise to err on the side of caution.
Instead of venturing into a DIY fix, it might be more prudent to contact Maytag support.
Their expert team can guide you or dispatch a technician to replace the motor.
6. Inoperative Drain Solenoid
The drain solenoid plays a critical role in water regulation. However, it can become a bottleneck if it stops functioning, preventing water from leaving the dishwasher.
How to Fix:
Begin by ensuring the dishwasher is disconnected from its power source. Once it’s safe, access the solenoid by delicately removing the dishwasher’s lower panels.
Replace the faulty solenoid with a new one, and ensure all connections are securely in place.
7. Wrong Detergent
Incorrect detergent usage can lead to unwanted suds and blockages, becoming a stealthy reason for the Maytag dishwasher not draining properly.
How to Fix:
The solution is pretty straightforward. Ensure you’re using the right type and quantity of detergent for your machine.
For high-efficiency (HE) Maytag models, it’s imperative to use HE detergents and stick to the recommended dosages. This ensures both a spotless wash and a hassle-free drain.
8. Control Board Malfunctions
The control board, referred to as the dishwasher’s brain, is crucial for the appliance’s functionality.
When it malfunctions, many problems can arise, including scenarios where your Maytag dishwasher won’t drain.
How to Fix:
Given the intricacy of the control board and its pivotal role in the dishwasher’s operations, DIY fixes might not be advisable for everyone.
It’s often safer and more effective to contact Maytag customer support directly.
They have expertise in guiding users through troubleshooting the Maytag dishwasher draining issue. They can recommend a professional service visit if required.
Check out the following blogs if you have any other brand of dishwasher:
- Fixing Thermador Dishwasher Not Draining? Problem Solved
- Hotpoint Dishwasher Not Draining? 10 Easy Repair Tips
- How to Fix Samsung Dishwasher won’t drain?
Conclusion
Facing issues with your Maytag dishwasher not draining can be quite daunting. But remember, with every problem comes a solution.
From clogged sump filters to malfunctioning control boards, many factors can hinder the drainage process.
Luckily, with our shared information and guidance, you’re well-equipped to address these issues head-on. Before jumping to costly professional repairs, give these DIY fixes a try.
You might just be surprised by how a little proactive troubleshooting can restore your Maytag dishwasher to its pristine operational state.
Christopher Evans is a Mechanical Engineer and is a distinguished expert in tire and electronic appliance testing with over 15 years of experience. Holding certifications like Automotive Tire Service (TIA) and Certified Appliance Professional (CAP). He is also a member of the the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and has significantly contributed to safety standards and testing protocols in both industries. Evans is a respected speaker and award recipient.