Maytag Washing Machine: not starting, not draining

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag washing machine won’t start and fails to drain water, it can be frustrating. Common issues include a faulty door lock, control panel glitches, or clogged drain hoses. Addressing these problems promptly can help restore functionality and prevent further damage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag washers require the door/lid to be fully locked before cycles start and a control lock feature can block operation until deactivated.

Possible Causes

Door/lid not locked or faulty door lock assembly

How to Identify: Washer does not start but has power; lid feels closed but not engaging lock; no error code changes when door is firmly secured.

Part: Door lid switch / lock assembly

Control lock activated or control panel glitch

How to Identify: Control lock indicator lit or unresponsive buttons; pressing and holding start doesn’t engage cycle; panel unresponsive.

Part: Control panel / control lock feature

Clogged or kinked drain hose / pump blockage (preventing draining)

How to Identify: Water remains in drum after cycle, audible struggling noise, potentially slow/blocked hose, visible kinks at back.

Part: Drain hose and drain pump

Faulty drain pump

How to Identify: No drainage despite clear hose; unusual noise from pump area; multimeter shows no pump motor activity.

Part: Drain pump

Faulty lid switch preventing start and drain functions

How to Identify: Machine lights up but will not start cycle; multimeter shows no continuity at switch; draining blocked until lid fully engaged.

Part: Lid switch

Control board or timer failure

How to Identify: No response from controls, display issues, Start button unresponsive even with correct conditions; other causes eliminated.

Part: Main control board / timer

DIY Solutions

Ensure door/lid fully closed and reset control

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Ensure washer is plugged in and power is available.
  2. Open and firmly close the door/lid until you hear/feel lock engage.
  3. Deactivate any control lock feature (press/hold control lock if indicated).
  4. Unplug washer for 5 minutes then plug back in to reset control panel.
  5. Attempt to start a cycle by pressing and holding Start for ~3 seconds.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before handling doors.

Clear clogs in drain hose and pump filter

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: Bucket, Towel, Screwdriver (if required)
  1. Turn off and unplug washer.
  2. Place a bucket below the drain hose connection and detach hose to clear water.
  3. Inspect the hose for kinks or visible blockages; straighten and flush out debris.
  4. Access and clean the pump filter if accessible (bottom front panel on some models) by removing debris.
  5. Reattach hose securely and test a drain cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Have towels/bucket ready to catch water.

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty door lock/lid switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace drain pump

Estimated Cost: $70 - $200

Replace control board / timer

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

You cannot isolate the cause after basic troubleshooting
Water remains and leak risk exists
Drain pump or control board suspected faulty
Unusual burning smells or electrical faults

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean drain hose and pump filter: Clogs causing no-drain symptoms
    Frequency: monthly
  • Run tub cleaning cycle and wipe gasket/door seals: Debris buildup that can affect door lock and drainage
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not starting, not draining?
The top causes include a faulty door lock, control lock activation, or a clogged drain hose.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not starting, not draining myself?
Ensure the door is closed and reset the control. Clear any clogs in the drain hose and pump filter.
How much does it cost to fix not starting, not draining?
Professional repair costs range from $50 for a door lock to $400 for a control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not starting, not draining?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you suspect a faulty drain pump or control board.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door latch or door switch preventing operation
  • Clogged drain pump or hose causing drainage issues
  • Electrical issue or wiring problem, such as loose connections

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the door latch or switch if faulty. Ensure the door is properly closed and latched before starting the cycle.

  2. Inspect and clear any obstructions in the drain pump and hose. Clean the filter if applicable.

  3. Examine wiring connections to the drain pump and control board. Repair or replace any damaged wires.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag washer stuck on sensing

Community Discussions

stuck on sensing, won't start, drain issues

Reconnect the drain pump wires; Maytag technician identified a wire issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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