Maytag Washing Machine: tripping GFCI outlet

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag washing machine tripping the GFCI outlet? This issue typically occurs when the washer detects a ground fault or leakage current, causing the outlet to cut off power. You may notice this happening right at startup or during specific stages of the wash cycle. Common causes include moisture in the outlet or wiring, a faulty GFCI outlet, or internal electrical faults within the washer.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Some Maytag washers are known to be sensitive to GFCI circuits; manufacturer and community sources note GFCI tripping is common enough that a non‑GFCI dedicated circuit may be advised

Possible Causes

Ground fault (current leakage to chassis or water) inside washer

How to Identify: GFCI trips even when no other devices are on circuit; plugging same washer into non‑GFCI outlet stops trips; visible moisture inside machine or damp wiring

Part: Internal wiring, motor insulation, control board or lid switch

Moisture intrusion in outlet or wiring (outside washer)

How to Identify: Outlet trips with nothing plugged in or when other devices are used; signs of moisture or dampness around the GFCI outlet or box

Part: GFCI outlet and associated wiring

Faulty or overly sensitive GFCI outlet

How to Identify: Swapping to a different GFCI or non‑GFCI outlet prevents tripping; outlet trips with minimal load

Part: GFCI receptacle

Overloaded circuit or shared loads

How to Identify: Other devices on same circuit, trips only when loads combined, trips intermittently rather than consistently with washer alone

Part: Electrical circuit feeding washer

Internal control board or component failure (e.g., main control board)

How to Identify: GFCI trips at consistent point regardless of outlet; visible burn marks or component failure when plugged into non‑GFCI outlet

Part: Control board or internal electronics

DIY Solutions

Test machine on a non‑GFCI outlet to isolate source

Easy 10 minutes
Tools Needed: alternate outlet or extension cord (grounded)
  1. Unplug washer.
  2. Plug washer into a known good non‑GFCI grounded outlet.
  3. Run a basic cycle and observe if GFCI still trips.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure extension cord is heavy duty and grounded

Check GFCI outlet for moisture or damage

Moderate 15 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, flashlight
  1. Turn off circuit breaker feeding the GFCI.
  2. Remove outlet cover and inspect for moisture, corrosion, or loose wiring.
  3. Dry and secure any moisture issues and tighten connections.
  4. Replace outlet if visibly damaged.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off power at breaker before opening outlet box

Professional Repairs

Internal electrical fault repair (machine)

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Dedicated circuit installation and outlet upgrade

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Repeated GFCI trips after testing on alternate outlet
Visible signs of electrical damage in washer wiring or board
Moisture detected inside machine housing

Preventive Maintenance

  • Periodically inspect power cord and outlet connection: Ground faults caused by worn insulation or loose connections
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine tripping GFCI outlet?
The GFCI outlet trips due to potential ground faults, moisture intrusion, or a faulty outlet. Overloaded circuits can also contribute.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine tripping GFCI outlet myself?
Test the washer on a non-GFCI outlet to isolate the issue, and inspect the GFCI outlet for moisture or damage.
How much does it cost to fix tripping GFCI outlet?
Professional repairs can range from $150 to $400, depending on the nature of the electrical fault or installation needs.
When should I call a technician for tripping GFCI outlet?
If DIY troubleshooting does not resolve the issue or if you suspect internal faults, it's best to consult a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty power cord or plug causing a short circuit
  • Moisture or water ingress in the machine leading to electrical faults
  • Internal component failure (e.g., motor, control board) creating a ground fault

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage; replace if necessary. Ensure the plug is fully inserted into the outlet.

  2. Check for moisture around the machine, especially near the motor and electrical connections. Dry any wet areas and ensure proper sealing.

  3. Test the internal components (motor, control board) for faults using a multimeter. Replace faulty components as needed.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Washing Machine Trips GFCI Outlet

Community Discussions

Washing machine trips GFCI outlet

Test the GFCI outlet and consider replacing it if faulty; check for grounding issues.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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