Maytag Refrigerator: not running

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag refrigerator is not running, it may seem completely dead—no compressor sound, cooling, or lights. This can indicate a serious issue, often stemming from common power supply problems, faulty relays, or dirty condenser coils. Understanding the potential causes can help you take the right steps towards a quick resolution.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Official Maytag troubleshooting emphasizes verifying power connection and breaker as first step for no-operation symptoms.

Possible Causes

Power supply issue (no power at the outlet or tripped breaker)

How to Identify: No lights inside, no sounds, and the outlet may be dead or breaker tripped; another device won’t power when plugged into same outlet.

Part: Electrical supply (outlet, power cord, breaker)

Faulty start relay or overload relay preventing compressor start

How to Identify: Compressor does not start but unit might hum or click; compressor warm; internal relay shows no continuity when tested with a multimeter. (Product Help | Maytag

Part: Start relay/overload relay attached to compressor

Dirty condenser coils causing overheating and shutdown

How to Identify: Unit may stop running after long use; coils visibly dusty; fridge overheats internally; cleaning resolves the issue.

Part: Condenser coils and condenser fan

DIY Solutions

Check and reset power supply

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: None, Optional outlet tester
  1. Verify the refrigerator is plugged into a live, grounded outlet.
  2. Try plugging another device into the outlet to confirm power.
  3. Check the home circuit breaker panel for tripped breakers/fuses and reset if needed.
  4. Avoid using extension cords or switched outlets.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on electrical panel if unfamiliar; call electrician if needed.

Clean condenser coils and check airflow

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Vacuum with brush attachment or condenser coil brush, Flashlight
  1. Unplug the refrigerator.
  2. Locate the condenser coils (back or bottom grille).
  3. Use brush/vacuum to remove accumulated dust and debris.
  4. Ensure there is sufficient clearance around refrigerator for airflow.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before cleaning to avoid electrical shock.

Professional Repairs

Start relay or overload relay replacement

Estimated Cost: $30–$80

Compressor replacement

Estimated Cost: $300–$700

When to Call a Professional

Compressor not running after DIY power and coil checks
Unusual noises (clicking, buzzing) indicating electrical issues
Faulty control board suspected (no UI/response)
Repeated breaker tripping or electrical smell

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Overheating and compressor shutdown
    Frequency: every 6–12 months
  • Check door seals: Loss of cooling efficiency and unnecessary compressor stress
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Refrigerator not running?
Common causes include power supply issues, faulty start or overload relays, and dirty condenser coils.
How do I fix Maytag Refrigerator not running myself?
Check the power supply and reset breakers; clean the condenser coils for better airflow.
How much does it cost to fix not running?
Professional repairs like start relay replacement cost $30–$80, while compressor replacement ranges from $300–$700.
When should I call a technician for not running?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you suspect a major component failure, call a technician immediately.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty compressor relay
  • Defective start capacitor
  • Compressor failure

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the compressor relay. Unplug the refrigerator, locate the relay (usually at the back near the compressor), and test it with a multimeter. If faulty, replace it.

  2. Inspect and replace the start capacitor. Unplug the refrigerator, access the capacitor near the compressor, and test it for continuity. Replace if defective.

  3. If the compressor is not running after checking the relay and capacitor, consider replacing the compressor. This requires professional assistance due to complexity and safety concerns.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Compressor Not Running - 2005 Maytag Side by Side Refrigerat...

Community Discussions

Compressor not running, buzzing sound, loud click every 5 minutes

Replace the compressor relay and capacitor.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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