Maytag Washing Machine: pump running continuously

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag washing machine's pump running continuously? This issue often occurs when the washer detects no water, causing it to enter a drain routine even when empty. Other potential causes include clogged filters, faulty switches, or control board issues. Understanding these symptoms can help you address the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Official documentation indicates a built-in drain routine when no water is detected at cycle start, leading to continuous pump operation for a period.

Possible Causes

Washer in drain routine due to no water detected

How to Identify: Pump runs for ~8–10 minutes when no water inlet detected at start of cycle per official Maytag guidance.

Part: Control system/logic

Clogged drain filter/trap or debris in hoses

How to Identify: Presence of foreign objects in the drain filter, washcloths, threads, lint, or debris; physical clogging in hose/elbows.

Part: Drain filter / drain hose

Faulty lid switch or pressure switch

How to Identify: Pump runs continuously; stopping briefly when tub rotated manually; multimeter continuity test fails on lid switch.

Part: Lid switch / pressure switch

Control board or water level switch malfunction

How to Identify: Other causes ruled out; diagnostic codes or service manual indicates sensor/board error.

Part: Control board / water level switch

DIY Solutions

Check for clog in drain filter and hoses

Moderate 15-45 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Bucket/towels
  1. Unplug the washer and locate the drain filter access panel (typically at the bottom front).
  2. Place a bucket/towels beneath to catch water.
  3. Remove the drain filter/cover and inspect for debris, washcloths, or foreign objects.
  4. Clean out any debris and reassemble filter and cover.
  5. Check drain hose for kinks or clogs; remove and flush if needed.
  6. Restore power and test machine.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug the appliance before accessing internal components.

Verify if washer is in automatic drain routine

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Start a wash cycle and observe pump behavior at beginning.
  2. If no water enters the machine for ~13 minutes, the machine may default to a drain routine where the pump runs ~8–10 minutes as per official behavior.
  3. Allow the cycle to complete that period to see if pump stops.

Professional Repairs

Replace lid switch or pressure switch

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Control board diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Pump continues running after clearing clogs and checking switches
Connector or wiring damage suspected
Internal electronic fault codes appear

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain filter: Clogs that cause continuous pump operation
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect and clean drain hose: Debris buildup and pump overwork
    Frequency: every 3-6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine pump running continuously?
This can happen due to the washer detecting no water, clogged filters, or faulty switches.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine pump running continuously myself?
Check for clogs in the drain filter and hoses, or verify if the washer is in an automatic drain routine.
How much does it cost to fix pump running continuously?
Professional repairs can range from $40 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for pump running continuously?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the problem persists, it's best to contact a technician.

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

  • Clogged drain hose or filter
  • Faulty pressure switch
  • Malfunctioning control board

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain hose and filter. Disconnect the washer from power, remove the drain hose, and inspect for clogs. Clean the filter located near the pump. Reassemble and test the machine.

  2. Test the pressure switch for continuity. Disconnect the washer from power, locate the pressure switch, and use a multimeter to check for continuity. If defective, replace the pressure switch.

  3. Inspect and replace the control board if necessary. Disconnect power, remove the control panel, and visually inspect for burnt components. If damaged, replace with the exact same part number.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag Bravos Washing Machine drain pump runs non stop

Community Discussions

drain pump runs non stop

Replace the control board with the exact same part number.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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