dishwasher doesn't drain

Troubleshooting a Maytag Dishwasher Not Draining

A Maytag dishwasher not draining properly needs a fast solution to avoid a troublesome mess. We’ll pinpoint the most likely causes for drainage problems, from a clogged filter to a failed drain pump, to solve the problem quickly.

Maytag Dishwasher Not Draining? This Could Be Why

Fortunately, the most common reasons for a Maytag dishwasher not draining can have DIY solutions. Our troubleshooting tips detail whether a fast fix or professional repair can solve the problem.

Maytag Dishwasher Filter is Clogged

A dishwasher’s filter screens out large food particles to prevent drain clogs. Yet, over time, these particles can block the filter, and clogs may occur. Since not all dishwashers have air gaps, any debris that’s flushed down the sink drain can also clog the filter.

Our dishwasher loading tips recommend that you clean a dishwasher filter every few months for optimum performance, as well as to prevent clogs. However, if your dishwasher has standing water after cycle ends, it may need cleaning sooner. Here’s how to clean a Maytag dishwasher filter:

  1. Locate the filter under the bottom spray arm or in the back right corner of the dishwasher tub.
  2. Remove the cage or grille covering the filter. Some filter cages need to be unscrewed. 
  3. Pull up on the filter to remove.
  4. Rinse the filter under running water, scrubbing gently with a toothbrush to remove stubborn debris.
  5. Replace the filter and filter cage.

Maytag dishwasher not draining

Drain Hose is Obstructed

When your dishwasher doesn’t drain, an obstructed drain hose is often the reason. If there is a particularly large food particle or an accumulation of debris that escapes the filter, drain hose clogs can occur.

Some drain hose obstructions can be cleared by pouring a solution of baking soda, vinegar, and hot water down the dishwasher drain. However, if this fails and you still find your Maytag dishwasher not draining, the hose must be disconnected to remove the clog. While this can best be done by a professional service, here’s what the process entails:

  1. Remove the screws around the dishwasher’s interior and under the kick plate to pull it away from the countertop.
  2. Turn off the water supply valve.
  3. Disconnect the drain hose by unscrewing the clamps near the dishwasher and sink drain.
  4. Straighten any visible kinks in the hose. If there are no kinks, gently bend the hose to dislodge clogs or flush it with high-pressure water from a garden hose.
  5. Reconnect the drain hose and turn on the water supply valve.
  6. Reposition the dishwasher and replace the screws.

Drain Pump Has Failed

A dishwasher’s drain pump uses a motor-powered impeller to flush water and debris into the drain hose. If you find your Maytag dishwasher not draining after cycle ends, it’s possible the pump motor has failed. When this happens, debris can accumulate and cause a clog.

If the motor won’t run or multimeter testing shows a lack of continuity, the motor requires replacement.  

If you still have a Maytag dishwasher not draining after these troubleshooting tips, Sloan Appliance Service can help. We’re proud to offer the very best in dishwasher repair Lexington.

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