Maytag Washing Machine: drain pump continuously running

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a Maytag washing machine with a drain pump that continuously runs can be frustrating. This issue may arise after the wash or rinse cycle, even when there's no water present. Understanding the common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag models (e.g., Maxima) have been reported to exhibit continuous drain pump issues due to stuck relays or pressure hose blockages.
  • Debris (e.g., washcloths) caught in drain areas frequently reported specifically for Maytag Bravos XL.

Possible Causes

Clogged debris in drain pump/filter or hoses causing improper water level detection

How to Identify: Remove and inspect drain pump filter or access panel; visible debris (washcloth, lint, foreign objects clogging pump inlet or hoses reported to cause continuous run. (iFixit

Part: Drain pump assembly / filter / hoses

Faulty water level (pressure) switch or blocked pressure hose

How to Identify: If the washer believes water remains due to incorrect signal, pump continues; inspect the small rubber hose to water level sensor for blockages or kinks. (Ready To DIY

Part: Pressure switch / pressure hose

Stuck or failed drain pump relay on control board

How to Identify: Pump runs regardless of cycle state even after reset; control board symptoms reported where the relay sticks ‘on’. (Ready To DIY

Part: Control board / pump relay

Failed drain pump motor assembly

How to Identify: Pump runs, but ineffec­tively drains water or has unusual noises; replacement often fixes issue.

Part: Drain pump motor

DIY Solutions

Clear debris from drain pump filter and hoses

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, towels
  1. Turn off and unplug washer.
  2. Access drain pump filter (lower front panel) and remove any visible debris or foreign objects.
  3. Disconnect and inspect drain hoses for blockages; clear debris.
  4. Reassemble and test machine operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Always power off before accessing internal components.

Inspect and clear pressure hose to water level sensor

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight, small brush or compressed air
  1. Unplug washer.
  2. Locate pressure hose from tub to control board/sensor.
  3. Inspect for clogs, kinks, or water/foam blockage; gently clear with brush or compressed air.
  4. Reinstall hose ensuring no sharp bends and test operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working inside cabinet.

Reset control board

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Unplug washer for 5–10 minutes to allow electronic reset.
  2. Plug back in and run a test cycle.
  3. If continuous run persists, more advanced diagnosis needed.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board or pump relay

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace drain pump motor assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Pump continues running after clearing clogs and resetting control board
Visible electrical damage or error codes indicating sensor/control faults
Uncertain pressure switch or control board diagnosis

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain pump filter and hoses: Debris buildup causing misreads and continuous pump operation
    Frequency: every 3–6 months
  • Inspect pressure hose connection: Blocked or kinked hose causing false water level readings
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine drain pump continuously running?
Common causes include clogged debris in the drain pump, a faulty water level switch, a stuck drain pump relay, or a failed drain pump motor.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine drain pump continuously running myself?
You can clear debris from the drain pump filter, inspect the pressure hose for clogs, or reset the control board by unplugging the washer.
How much does it cost to fix drain pump continuously running?
Professional repair costs range from $150 to $400 for control board replacements or $50 to $150 for drain pump motor assembly replacements.
When should I call a technician for drain pump continuously running?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you encounter complex problems, it's best to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty drain pump causing continuous operation
  • Clogged drain filter or hose preventing proper drainage
  • Malfunctioning control board sending incorrect signals

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter and hose. Disconnect the power, locate the drain filter, remove any debris, and ensure the hose is clear of blockages.

  2. Inspect the drain pump for faults. Disconnect the power, remove the pump, and test it for continuity with a multimeter. Replace if defective.

  3. Reset the control board by unplugging the washer for 5 minutes. If the issue persists, consider replacing the control board.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag top load washer drain pump staying on causing F9E1 co...

Community Discussions

drain pump staying on, F9E1 code, tripping breaker

Possible control board failure; factory reset attempted; new control board recommended.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!