Maytag Washing Machine: not retaining water

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag washing machine not retaining water during cycles? This issue can manifest as the drum failing to fill, draining immediately, or quickly siphoning out water. Understanding the common causes is vital for effective troubleshooting and repair.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

Some models monitor load and continue filling for up to 10â€“12 minutes to reach correct level (not a fault)
Maytag washers require both hot and cold water connected for some cycles; single supply can prevent proper fill

Possible Causes

Water Supply Valves Closed or Inlet Hoses Kinked/Blocked

How to Identify: Verify both hot and cold supply valves are fully open and hoses are not kinked or clogged

Part: Water supply valves and inlet hoses

Clogged Inlet Screens

How to Identify: Water not flowing into washer even when valves open; visible debris on screens when hoses disconnected

Part: Inlet screens at hose/valve connection

Faulty Water Inlet Valve

How to Identify: No water enters drum despite open supply and clean screens; multimeter shows no activation during fill cycle

Part: Water inlet valve

Improper Drain Hose Installation Causing Siphoning

How to Identify: Water briefly enters but immediately drains out; drain hose inserted too low below recommended height

Part: Drain hose/standpipe setup

Faulty Lid Switch/Latch (Safety Fill Lockout)

How to Identify: Washer wonâ€™t fill only when lid doesnâ€™t fully latch; no click on closing lid

Part: Lid switch or door lock

Faulty Water Level/Pressure Switch

How to Identify: Washer fills incorrectly, overfills, or stops filling early; continuity tests fail

Part: Water level pressure switch

DIY Solutions

Check and Open Water Supply

Easy 5-10 minutes

Locate hot and cold water supply valves behind washer
Ensure both valves are fully open
Inspect hoses for kinks and straighten them if necessary

Clean Inlet Hose Screens

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: Wrench, Soft brush, Bucket

Turn off water supply to washer
Disconnect inlet hoses from back of washer
Inspect and clean small mesh screens at hose ends with soft brush
Reconnect hoses and turn water back on

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure valves fully off before disconnecting hoses

Adjust Drain Hose Height to Prevent Siphoning

Moderate 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: Measuring tape

Check current drain hose insertion height into standpipe
Raise hose so end is between approximately 30â€“36 inches above floor
Secure hose to prevent movement during cycle

Professional Repairs

Replace Water Inlet Valve

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace Lid Switch or Door Lock Assembly

Estimated Cost: $30 - $100

Replace Water Level/Pressure Switch

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

When to Call a Professional

Water enters but drains immediately despite proper hose/valve setup

Electrical components (valve, switch) fail testing

Leaks or unusual noises occur during cycles indicating deeper issues

Preventive Maintenance

Clean inlet screens: Blockage and reduced water flow
Frequency: annually
Inspect hoses for kinks/damage: Water supply restrictions and leaks
Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not retaining water?

Common causes include closed water supply valves, clogged inlet screens, and a faulty water inlet valve.

How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not retaining water myself?

Check and open water supply valves, clean inlet hose screens, and adjust the drain hose height to prevent siphoning.

How much does it cost to fix not retaining water?

Professional repairs can range from $30 for a lid switch to $150 for a water inlet valve replacement.

When should I call a technician for not retaining water?

If DIY solutions fail or if you're uncomfortable with repairs, consider calling a technician for assistance.

References & Sources

Checking the Fill Hoses if the Washer is not Filling Official

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
Clogged or kinked water supply hoses
Malfunctioning lid switch
Incorrect cycle selection (e.g., presoak/prerinse cycle)

User Suggested Solutions

Check and replace the water inlet valve if faulty. Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hoses, and test the valve with a multimeter for continuity. Replace if necessary.
Inspect and clear any clogs in the water supply hoses. Ensure hoses are not kinked or pinched. Replace hoses if damaged.
Test the lid switch for proper operation. Open the lid and listen for a clicking sound. If there is no sound, replace the lid switch.
Ensure the correct cycle is selected. If using a presoak or prerinse cycle, add detergent after the first drain to avoid immediate draining.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Is it normal for my front load washing machine to drain all ...

Community Discussions

drains all of the soapy water immediately after starting a load

Repairmen suggested that the machine has a presoak/prerinse cycle and recommended adding detergent after the first drain.