Maytag dishwasher not draining

If your Maytag dishwasher is leaving standing water in the bottom of the tub or your dishes aren’t fully clean, drainage problems may be to blame. This is one of the most common dishwasher issues and is often caused by a clog, blockage, or faulty component. Below, we’ll walk through the top causes and how to troubleshoot them.

Key reasons for the problem:

50% of reported issues are the

Clogged Drain Hose

30% of reported issues are the

Faulty Drain Pump

15% of reported issues are the

Air Gap Blockage

5% of reported issues are the

All Other Causes

Diagnostic and troubleshooting steps

Maytag dishwasher not draining? Follow the steps below to troubleshoot common issues like a clogged drain hose, blocked air gap, or a faulty drain pump.

Step 1:

Check the Filter and Drain Basket

Remove the bottom rack and inspect the filter for food buildup or clogs. Rinse under warm water and scrub gently with a soft brush.

Step 2:

Inspect the Drain Hose

Look behind the dishwasher or under the sink for a blocked, kinked, or disconnected drain hose. Straighten it and flush with water if needed.

Step 3:

Check the Garbage Disposal Connection

If the dishwasher connects to a disposal, run the disposal to clear any clogs. If it’s a new install, ensure the knockout plug was removed.

Step 4:

Listen to the Drain Cycle

A humming noise without drainage may point to a failed pump. If it’s silent or struggling, a professional may be needed to replace the pump.

Step 5:

Reset the Dishwasher

Turn off the power at the breaker for 1–2 minutes or unplug the unit. Restart the dishwasher and see if it completes the drain cycle.

Step 6:

Get a Home Warranty for Unexpected Appliance Issues

From strange noises to total power loss, warranty providers like Liberty Home Guard cover a wide range of sudden problems.

Key actions for homeowners

Clean the dishwasher filter every few weeks to prevent buildup.
Avoid overloading dishes, which can block the drainage flow.
Always run the garbage disposal before using the dishwasher.
Use dishwasher-safe detergents to reduce soap scum residue.
Schedule regular maintenance to keep internal components functioning well.

Most common repairs needed to fix a maytag dishwasher

When your Maytag dishwasher isn’t draining, certain repairs are more commonly required than others. Below are the most frequent fixes:

Clean the dishwasher filter every few weeks to prevent buildup.
Avoid overloading dishes, which can block the drainage flow.
Always run the garbage disposal before using the dishwasher.
Use dishwasher-safe detergents to reduce soap scum residue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there standing water in my Maytag dishwasher?
It’s likely caused by a clogged filter, blocked drain hose, or malfunctioning drain pump.
Can I unclog the dishwasher myself?
Yes—start by cleaning the filter and inspecting the hose. If it still won’t drain, a technician may be needed.
Should I run the garbage disposal first?
Yes. If the dishwasher connects to a disposal, running it can help clear the drain line.
How do I reset my Maytag dishwasher?
Unplug the unit or switch off the circuit breaker for 1–2 minutes. This can reset minor software errors.
When should I call a technician?
If you've cleaned the filter and checked the hose but the problem continues, it's time to contact a professional, especially if the pump or control board is involved.

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