Your Maytag front load washer’s drain pump filter is a crucial component that needs periodic cleaning. A clogged or dirty filter can lead to drainage problems, error codes, and foul odors. Cleaning this filter every 6 months ensures your washer runs smoothly and prevents premature failure.
When to Clean the Drain Pump Filter
Ideally, the drain pump filter should be cleaned every 6 months. However, you may need to clean it more frequently if:
- The washer is not draining properly and water remains in the drum after a cycle.
- You see an “F#E#” error code (especially F21) on the display. This indicates a drainage issue.
- There are foul odors coming from the washer, indicating built-up debris and mold in the filter.
- The filter area feels slimy.
- The wash cycles seem shorter than usual, signaling a clogged filter.
Cleaning the filter regularly as part of washer maintenance keeps it free of lint, dirt, soap residue, and other debris. If the filter becomes too clogged, it can cause the pump to seize.
How to Access the Drain Pump Filter
Maytag front load washers have the drain pump filter conveniently located behind the dispenser drawer. To access it:
- Pull out the dispenser drawer at the bottom front of the washer. There is a handle recess at the center bottom you can use.
- Press down the release tabs on either side of the drawer to detach it from the washer.
- Set the drawer aside. This exposes the drain pump filter.
Depending on your specific model, the filter may be white, grey, or black in color. It will likely have lint and residue built up on it if it hasn’t been cleaned in awhile.
Draining Water from the Washer
Before removing the drain pump filter, you need to drain any residual water in the washer tub.
- Place a broad, flat pan or container under the filter area to catch the water.
- Locate the drain hose next to the filter and release it from the plastic retainer.
- Remove the rubber cap from the end of the hose and point it into your drain pan. Water will start flowing out.
- Once the tub is fully drained, replace the rubber cap and re-secure the hose.
Tip: Straightening any kinks in the drain hose while draining allows the water to flow out faster.
Removing and Cleaning the Filter
With the tub drained, you can now remove and clean the filter:
- Lay an old towel under the filter area to catch drips.
- Grip the filter and turn it counterclockwise to unlock it.
- Pull the filter straight out to remove it. A small amount of water may spill out.
- Rinse the filter under warm running water to remove lint, dirt, and debris. You may need to scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Make sure to remove all residue and buildup from the filter cavities and seals.
- Shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling.
Tip: Check for any objects stuck in the filter and remove them. Coins, pens, paper clips, and other items can jam the pump.
Reinstalling the Drain Pump Filter
Once fully dry, you can reinstall the cleaned filter:
- Insert the filter back into the opening and press it firmly in place.
- Turn the filter clockwise to lock it back in place. Make sure it is fully seated.
- Replace the drain hose into the retainer.
- Reinsert the dispenser drawer by lining up the tabs and sliding it back into place.
Run a Drain & Spin cycle empty to test for leaks and ensure proper drainage. You may need to repeat the process if you notice the washer struggling to drain after reassembly.
Additional Maintenance Tips
- Leave the door open between washes to allow moisture to evaporate and prevent mold growth.
- Use a washing machine cleaner monthly to freshen the drum and break up residue.
- Clean the gaskets and seals regularly using a disinfectant spray and paper towel.
- Remove lint and debris from the washing machine base monthly.
- Descale the washer to remove mineral buildup about once per year.
- Clean the exterior with mild soap and warm water as needed.
Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance is the best way to maximize your washer’s lifespan. Always consult your owner’s manual for your model’s specific requirements.
Troubleshooting Drainage Issues
If water remains in the drum after cleaning the filter, there may be an additional drainage problem:
- Verify that the drain hose is free of kinks and clogs. Clean out any lint or debris.
- Check that the drain hose is properly secured in the drain pipe standpipe. There should be no leaks.
- Make sure the drain pipe itself is clear by disconnecting the hose and running a snake through it.
- Test the drain pump. Select the Drain & Spin cycle and allow it to run for a few minutes to confirm proper pump operation.
- Remove any blockages in the sump housing below the filter.
If these steps don’t resolve the drainage issues, the drain pump itself may need professional service or replacement. Contact Maytag support for additional troubleshooting.
When to Call a Repair Professional
While cleaning the drain pump filter yourself is easy enough for most DIYers, there are some instances when it’s best to call in a technician:
- You are unable to remove the filter for cleaning. It may be over-tightened or corroded in place.
- There are leaks, odd sounds, or other abnormal symptoms coming from the pump housing.
- The washer displays error codes related to drainage or the pump even after you have cleaned the filter.
- There is a burning smell coming from the washer motor area indicating an electrical issue.
- You believe the drain pump itself is defective and needs service.
Avoid dismantling the pump housing or motor yourself. Your Maytag washer uses heavy duty electrical components that should only be serviced by a professional.
Just slide open that dispenser drawer at the bottom front and the filter is right there, ready to be cleaned. No need to drag the machine out from the wall or tilt it back to reachservice panels like on some washers. Maytag made the filter removal straightforward with no tools required. Just give it a twist and pull.
Reinstallation is just as simple. Pop it back in, twist to lock it in place, and close up the dispenser. I wish all pump filters were this easy to clean!
Maintenance is crucial on any washer to maximize its lifespan. Maytag’s filter location allows owners to quickly inspect and clean out any gunk every few months without hassle. A clean filter prevents drainage problems, leaks, odors, and error codes.
I always recommend my customers follow the steps outlined in their owner’s manual for periodic filter cleaning. If more troubleshooting is needed, I’m happy to lend my expertise to resolve any issues. But that handy filter design already eliminates a lot of drainage headaches.
Properly Caring for the Drain Pump Filter
The drain pump filter on your Maytag front load washer needs special care and cleaning to keep it functioning properly. Here are some best practices:
First, be gentle when removing the filter initially to avoid breaking the locking tabs. Give it a firm counter-clockwise twist first to release the lock before pulling straight out. Inspect the filter for any cracks or damage each time you remove it. A damaged filter can lead to leaks and drainage issues.
Rinse the filter thoroughly under warm running water. Use an old toothbrush, cotton swab, or cloth to scrub away any lint, dirt, grease, hair, and other debris clinging to the filter mesh and housing. Make sure to clean all crevices and corners thoroughly. If buildup is heavy, let the filter soak for 30 minutes in warm water and detergent or a solution of 2 cups white vinegar mixed with 1 gallon of warm water. This will loosen stubborn gunk.
After cleaning, check the drain pump impeller inside the housing for obstructions. Remove any debris around the impeller. Spin the impeller around by hand to ensure it rotates freely. A jammed impeller can cause pump failure. Spray the interior housing with a sanitizing cleaner if there are any smells.
Finally, make sure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling. Any moisture left trapped in the pump housing can promote mold growth. Allow the filter to air dry for at least 12 hours after thorough cleaning and disinfecting.
Warning Signs of a Failing Drain Pump
If the drain pump on your Maytag front load washer starts to fail, there will be some telltale signs. Be on the lookout for these red flags:
- Loud humming or grinding noises coming from the pump area during the drain portion of cycles. This often indicates wear and tear on the pump motor.
- Intermittent drainage issues where water backs up in the drum but eventually drains after multiple cycles. The pump may be slowly losing drainage power.
- Continuous sluggish drainage where several inches of water remain in the drum after the final spin. The pump can no longer adequately remove all the water.
- Musty or mildew smells coming from the washer even after cleaning the filter. Drainage water sitting in the pump housing can breed mold.
- Failure to drain any water and “F21” error code. This means the drain pump is not functioning at all due to a jam or failure.
- Leaking water underneath the washer around the pump. Seals around the pump may be worn out.
- Unusual electrical smell from the pump motor. The motor may be overheating or shorting out.
If you notice any of these warning signs, try cleaning the filter, inspecting the pump impeller, and running diagnostic tests. But you may need to call for professional pump repair or replacement if problems persist.
When to Replace vs Repair the Drain Pump
If your Maytag washer’s drain pump is malfunctioning, you’ll need to decide whether to repair or replace it. Here are some guidelines:
Repairs make sense if the issue is a clog, broken impeller, jammed pulley, or loose wiring connection. A technician can clear blockages, replace just the impeller, adjust alignments, or resolder connections relatively inexpensively. Repairs require mechanical skills and disassembling the pump housing.
Replacement is better if the electric pump motor itself is failing or burnt out. Motora have a sealed unit that cannot be disassembled for internal repairs. Replacement pumps can be easily swapped out by disconnecting the inlet/outlet hoses and mounting bracket. New drain pump kits cost $100-300 depending on model.
In general, repairs are cheaper but take more labor. Replacement costs more upfront for the part but is easier and less time consuming to install. Repair if the issues seems localized, but replace for broad motor failure. Also consider the washer’s age. On very old washers, replacement is often the better value.
Work with an experienced technician for the best advice. They can diagnose issues and recommend the most cost effective fix for your particular situation.
Troubleshooting Drain Pump Leaks
Water leaking from around the drain pump is never a good sign. But there are ways to troubleshoot the cause:
First, remove the filter and check for any blockage or debris that could prevent proper drainage and cause leaks around the seals.
Next, examine the drain pump housing carefully for cracks or damage, especially around the inlet/outlet ports. Even small cracks in the plastic can lead to leaks. If cracked, the pump housing will need replaced.
Inspect the drain pump seals for wear, dry rot, or gasket tears. Run a thin blade around the seal surface to check for embedded debris. Worn or damaged seals allow water to leak out around pump mating surfaces. The seals may just need cleaned and lubricated, or replacement.
Check that drain hoses are inserted fully into the pump ports and secured with hose clamps. Gaps can cause leaks. Make sure the ports are clear of debris. Even small particles under the seal lip can cause water to seep out.
Finally, confirm the mounting bracket is holding the pump securely in proper alignment without gaps. Improper installation can distort the housing and loosen seals. The pump may need realigned and tightened to the bracket.
Always keep an eye out for leaks, which signal a failing component. Address any pump leaks promptly before major damage occurs.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
| Old towels | Absorb water leaks |
| Drain pan | Collect drained water |
| Gloves | Protect hands from debris |
| Toothbrush | Scrub filter crevices |
| Dish soap | Remove residue |
| Vinegar | Descale mineral buildup |
| Water | Rinse filter clean |
| Paper towels | Dry components |
Conclusion
In summary, cleaning the drain pump filter is essential for any Maytag front load washer owner. This simple maintenance keeps the machine running in tip-top shape. Maytag’s convenient filter access makes the process quick and straightforward. Just follow the detailed steps in your owner’s manual periodically to clear out debris, prevent odors, and avoid drainage issues. With proper care, your Maytag washer will deliver years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: Ideally, clean the filter every 6 months as part of routine maintenance. Clean more frequently if you notice odors, drainage problems, or error codes.
Q: Do I need any special tools to access the filter?
A: No special tools needed! Just open the dispenser drawer by the pull handle.
Q: Where should I drain the residual water before removing the filter?
A: Drain the water into a large pan or bucket placed under the filter access area.
Q: What is the best way to clean the filter once removed?
A: Rinse under warm running water. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away lint and residue. Allow to fully air dry before reinstalling.
Q: How can I test the drain pump after cleaning the filter?
A: Run an empty Drain & Spin cycle to verify proper drainage and check for leaks.
Q: When should I call for professional service?
A: If you are unable to remove the filter or resolve drainage problems after cleaning. Any odd sounds or leaks indicate larger issues.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m always happy to help Maytag owners keep their washers in tip-top shape.