Maytag Dishwasher: error code E5

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing the E5 error code on your Maytag dishwasher? This issue often indicates drainage problems or a failure to complete cycles. The error may stem from standing water, a triggered flood sensor, or an improperly closed door. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag’s official error code resource does not list E5 specifically, meaning interpretations may be model dependent. Always check your exact model manual if available.

Possible Causes

Water not draining properly (standing water)

How to Identify: Standing water at bottom of dishwasher, unusual error immediately after wash/drain cycle.

Part: Drain pump / drain hose / filter

Flood / water sensed in base (flood sensor triggered)

How to Identify: Error appears after water has leaked or overflowed into base, triggering leak detection.

Part: Flood sensor / base pan

Door not properly closed/latched

How to Identify: E5 appears at start of cycle, door feels not fully flush or latched; machine won’t start/resumes error immediately.

Part: Door latch / door switch

DIY Solutions

Clean Drain Filter

Easy 10-20 minutes
  1. Turn off power to dishwasher (unplug or breaker).
  2. Open dishwasher and remove bottom rack.
  3. Locate and remove drain filter at bottom of tub.
  4. Rinse filter under running water to clear debris.
  5. Reinstall filter and close dishwasher.

Check and Clear Drain Hose Blockages

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket
  1. Disconnect power and water supply.
  2. Pull dishwasher out to access back panel.
  3. Locate drain hose and check for kinks or bends.
  4. Disconnect hose at sink/drain connection and inspect for debris.
  5. Flush hose with water to clear blockages and reconnect securely.
⚠️ Safety First: Be prepared for water spillage when disconnecting hose.

Ensure Door Latch Fully Engages

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Open and close the dishwasher door firmly until a solid click is heard.
  2. Visually inspect latch area for debris or misalignment.
  3. Try running a short cycle to see if error clears.

Professional Repairs

Replace Drain Pump

Estimated Cost: $70 - $200

Service Flood Sensor or Base Pan Leak Detection

Estimated Cost: $80 - $180

Replace Door Latch or Switch

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

After performing drainage and latch DIY checks and the E5 error persists.
If there is standing water in base and error returns immediately.
If electrical components (pump, sensor, control board) fail testing or require replacement.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filter and check drain hose: Blockages that can trigger drainage‑related errors.
    Frequency: Monthly
  • Inspect door latch condition: Door closure issues that may trigger error codes.
    Frequency: Quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dishwasher error code E5?
The E5 error may be due to drainage issues, a triggered flood sensor, or an improperly closed door.
How do I fix Maytag Dishwasher error code E5 myself?
You can clean the drain filter, check for hose blockages, and ensure the door latch is secure.
How much does it cost to fix error code E5?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $200 depending on the issue, such as replacing parts.
When should I call a technician for error code E5?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable performing repairs, consider calling a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty float switch causing incorrect water level detection
  • Malfunctioning main control board affecting operation
  • Clogged drain or filter leading to water drainage issues

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and test the float switch for proper operation. If faulty, replace it. To do this, unplug the dishwasher, remove the lower spray arm and cover, and access the float switch. Use a multimeter to check continuity. If it shows no continuity, replace the float switch.

  2. Check the main control board for any visible signs of damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace the control board. This involves removing the dishwasher's front panel, disconnecting the old board, and installing the new one with proper wiring.

  3. Clean the drain and filter to ensure there are no blockages. Remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly, rinse under water, and check for any debris. Reassemble and test the dishwasher.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Maytag dishwasher M# MDB4949SKZ0 FA E5 error code. Google sa...

Community Discussions

E5 error code

Potential float switch issue or main control board, but not confirmed due to replacement of the dishwasher.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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