Maytag Dishwasher: filter clogging

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing filter clogging in your Maytag dishwasher can lead to poor cleaning performance and unpleasant odors. Accumulation of food debris, grease, and mineral deposits restrict water flow, potentially causing drainage issues. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding these problems and ensuring efficient operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Some Maytag models feature Dual Power Filtration that reduces routine maintenance needs by chopping food into smaller pieces and helping prevent clogs.

Possible Causes

Food Debris Accumulation

How to Identify: Visible food particles or residue on or in the filter, dishes still dirty after a cycle, or standing water at the bottom of the dishwasher after a wash cycle.

Part: Dishwasher filter (upper and lower filter assemblies)

Grease and Fat Buildup

How to Identify: Sticky grime or greasy residue on the filter that doesn’t wash off easily with water alone; may require soaking to remove.

Part: Filter mesh/screens

Hard Water Mineral Deposits

How to Identify: White or chalky deposits visible on filter; could coincide with other signs of hard water (spotting on dishes.

Part: Filter mesh

Foreign Small Objects

How to Identify: Objects like labels, seeds, or small food bits lodged in filter or sump preventing normal water flow.

Part: Filter housing

DIY Solutions

Remove and Clean the Dishwasher Filter

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: soft brush or old toothbrush, warm water, mild dish soap
  1. Turn off the dishwasher and open the door.
  2. Remove the lower dish rack to expose the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher.
  3. Twist and lift out the upper filter assembly, then remove the lower filter if present.
  4. Rinse both filter parts under warm running water to remove loose debris.
  5. Use a soft brush with warm water (and mild soap if needed) to gently scrub away stubborn particles.
  6. Inspect the filter housing and remove any visible debris from inside.
  7. Reinstall the filters in the correct order and position, ensuring they lock securely.
  8. Replace the dish rack and run a rinse cycle to confirm improved flow.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not use wire brushes or abrasive tools to avoid damaging filter surfaces.

Soak Filter to Remove Grease and Deposits

Moderate 30-45 minutes
Tools Needed: container/basin, warm water, mild dish soap or vinegar
  1. Remove the dishwasher filter as above.
  2. Prepare a soaking solution of warm water with mild dish soap or equal parts white vinegar.
  3. Soak the filter components for 20–30 minutes to help dissolve grease and mineral deposits.
  4. After soaking, scrub gently with a soft brush to remove loosened buildup.
  5. Rinse thoroughly and reinstall the filter.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach on the filter parts.

Professional Repairs

Deep Service for Persistent Clogs and Related Drainage Components

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Clog persists after thorough filter cleaning and basic maintenance
Standing water remains after a normal cycle and is not resolved by filter cleaning
Unusual noises (grinding or humming) indicating possible drain pump or motor problems

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean the dishwasher filter: Filter clogging and related poor cleaning or drainage issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Scrape large food debris off dishes before loading: Excess food entering and clogging the filter
    Frequency: each load

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dishwasher filter clogging?
Common causes include food debris accumulation, grease buildup, and hard water mineral deposits.
How do I fix Maytag Dishwasher filter clogging myself?
Remove and clean the filter by soaking it in warm, soapy water for 20–30 minutes.
How much does it cost to fix filter clogging?
Professional repair for persistent clogs can cost between $100 and $300.
When should I call a technician for filter clogging?
If DIY solutions fail or if you experience ongoing drainage issues, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

85%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Food debris accumulation due to improper loading or overloading of the dishwasher
  • Worn or damaged filter that fails to capture debris effectively
  • Blocked drain hose leading to insufficient water drainage and filter clogging

User Suggested Solutions

  1. 1. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it. 2. Remove the bottom dish rack to access the filter. 3. Twist and lift the filter to remove it. 4. Rinse the filter under warm water to remove debris. 5. Check the filter for any damage and replace if necessary. 6. Reinstall the filter and bottom rack, then run a short cycle to test.

  2. 1. Inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages. 2. Disconnect the hose from the dishwasher and the sink drain. 3. Use a long brush or a plumber's snake to clear any blockages. 4. Reconnect the hose securely and test the dishwasher.

  3. 1. Examine the filter for wear and tear. 2. If the filter is damaged, purchase a new one from a reputable supplier. 3. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. 4. Run a cycle to ensure proper function.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Dishwasher decision between Maytag MDB4949SKZ and Bosch 300 ...

Community Discussions

pump filter has piled up twice

The Maytag model has a better internal space/fit for dishes, but the pump filter may clog.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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