Maytag Washing Machine: filling and draining simultaneously

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a Maytag washing machine that fills with water while simultaneously draining can be frustrating. This issue often results in no net fill, causing the machine to cycle between filling and draining repeatedly. Common causes can include improper drain hose installation, a faulty water inlet valve, or issues with the pressure switch.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

Maytag official guidance emphasizes correct drain hose positioning (distance into standpipe, air gap) to prevent siphoning issues which cause continuous fill/drain behavior.

Possible Causes

Improper drain hose installation leading to siphoning

How to Identify: End of drain hose pushed too far into standpipe or installed too low (below recommended height, no air gap, water visibly siphoning out while filling.

Part: Drain hose / standpipe

Faulty water inlet valve stuck open

How to Identify: Washer continues to take in water even when fill cycle should be off; may observe water flowing while machine off (test by unplugging.

Part: Water inlet valve

Faulty pressure/water level switch or clogged pressure hose

How to Identify: Machine cannot detect correct water level; water may be draining because machine thinks not enough water is present; visible wear/cracks on pressure hose.

Part: Pressure switch / air dome tube

Pump running erroneously due to control logic or wiring issue

How to Identify: Drain pump runs during fill cycle, unusual noises, check for error codes or electrical faults; observed pump activation when it shouldnâ€™t.

Part: Drain pump / control board

DIY Solutions

Verify and correct drain hose installation to prevent siphoning

Easy 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: none

Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer.
Ensure the end of the drain hose isnâ€™t pushed too far down into the standpipe.
Create a U-shaped loop or use a wall clip to position the hose at the correct height (at least standpipe minimum height per Maytag instructions).
Ensure there is an air gap and no tape sealing the hose into the drainpipe.

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply if adjusting hose near connections.

Inspect and test water inlet valve for sticking

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver, pliers

Unplug the washer and turn off water supply.
Access the water inlet valve (usually at the back panel).
Visually inspect for debris or damage on valve screens.
Use a multimeter to test continuity per model specs.
Replace valve if no continuity or if valve sticks open.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before testing electrical components.

Check pressure switch and tube

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter

Disconnect power.
Access control panel to locate pressure switch and pressure/air dome tube.
Remove the tube and check for cracks, blockages, or wear.
Blow through the tube to test for blockage, replace if necessary.
Test switch continuity with multimeter, replace if faulty.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working inside the machine.

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump or control board

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500

Professional inspection and installation correction

Estimated Cost: $100 - $200

When to Call a Professional

Water continues to drain while filling after proper drain hose repositioning and DIY checks

Suspected electrical/control board issues causing incorrect pump activation

Valve or pressure component replacements are beyond DIY comfort

Preventive Maintenance

Periodically check drain hose position: Prevent siphoning-related fill/drain issues
Frequency: annually
Inspect pressure hose and valve screens: Avoid pressure sensing issues and inlet valve sticking due to debris buildup
Frequency: semi-annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine filling and draining simultaneously?

This can occur due to improper drain hose installation, a stuck water inlet valve, or issues with the pressure switch.

How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine filling and draining simultaneously myself?

Check the drain hose installation, inspect the water inlet valve for sticking, and examine the pressure switch and tube for clogs.

How much does it cost to fix filling and draining simultaneously?

Professional repairs can range from $100 to $500 depending on whether it involves simple inspection or parts replacement.

When should I call a technician for filling and draining simultaneously?

If DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you are unsure about performing repairs, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

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 water inlet valve allowing water to flow continuously
Clogged or improperly installed drain hose causing siphoning
Defective pressure switch that fails to signal the control board

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect and replace the water inlet valve if it is stuck open. Disconnect the power, remove the back panel, and test the valve with a multimeter. If faulty, replace it with a new valve.
Check the drain hose for proper installation and any clogs. Ensure the end of the hose is at the correct height and not submerged in water. Clear any blockages and reposition if necessary.
Test and replace the pressure switch if defective. Access the switch by removing the control panel, check for continuity with a multimeter, and replace if it does not function properly.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Washing Machine Help

Community Discussions

filling and draining simultaneously without running a cycle

Check the drain hose for siphoning issues and consider replacing the water valve and water pressure sensor/switch.