How to Reset a Maytag Washer: Simple Reset Guide
Learn how to reset a Maytag washer with simple step-by-step instructions. Find out when to reset your washer and what to do if the reset does not work.
DIY
9/20/20263 min read
How to Reset a Maytag Washer
Resetting a Maytag washer can sometimes clear temporary electronic glitches, error messages, or problems with the wash cycle. If your washer is stuck, not responding, or refusing to start, a reset is a simple troubleshooting step to try before calling for service.
The exact reset procedure can vary depending on the Maytag washer model. However, the following methods work for many Maytag washing machines.
Method 1: Unplug the Maytag Washer
The easiest way to reset many Maytag washers is to disconnect the power.
Turn the washer off if it is currently running.
Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet.
Leave it unplugged for about 5 minutes.
Plug the washer back into the outlet.
Wait a few seconds for the controls to initialize.
Select a wash cycle.
Press Start and see if the washer operates normally.
A complete power interruption can clear temporary control-board glitches.
Method 2: Reset the Washer Using the Circuit Breaker
If you cannot easily reach the washer's power cord, you can disconnect its power at the circuit breaker.
Locate the circuit breaker supplying power to the washer.
Switch the breaker to the OFF position.
Wait approximately 5 minutes.
Turn the breaker back ON.
Return to the washer and wait for the control panel to become responsive.
Start a new wash cycle.
Make sure the washer has power restored before attempting to start a cycle.
Method 3: Cancel the Current Wash Cycle
Sometimes the washer does not need a complete power reset. Canceling the current cycle may be enough.
Press the Cancel, Power, or corresponding control button on your Maytag washer, depending on the model.
Wait a few seconds and then select a new cycle.
If the washer remains frozen or unresponsive, try the power reset method.
Why Should You Reset a Maytag Washer?
A reset may help when the washer experiences a temporary electronic problem. Common situations include:
The washer is not starting
The control panel is temporarily unresponsive
The washer is stuck in a cycle
An error code appears because of a temporary glitch
The washer stops unexpectedly
Buttons are not responding normally
A cycle does not complete correctly
However, resetting the washer will not repair a defective component. If the underlying problem continues, additional troubleshooting may be necessary.
What to Do After Resetting Your Maytag Washer
After restoring power, choose a simple cycle and run the washer without a large load of laundry.
Pay attention to whether the washer:
Fills with water
Locks the door or lid
Starts agitating or tumbling
Drains properly
Spins correctly
Completes the cycle
If everything works normally, the problem may have been caused by a temporary electronic issue.
What If My Maytag Washer Does Not Reset?
If your Maytag washer remains unresponsive after a reset, check a few basic things.
Check the Power Supply
Make sure the washer is firmly plugged into the electrical outlet. You can also check whether the circuit breaker has tripped.
Check the Door or Lid
Many Maytag washers will not start if the door or lid is not properly closed or locked.
Make sure there are no clothes or objects preventing the door or lid from closing completely.
Check for an Error Code
Look at the control panel for an error code. Write down the code because it can help identify the source of the problem.
Different Maytag washer models use different error codes and troubleshooting procedures.
Check the Water Supply
If the washer powers on but does not start filling, make sure both water supply valves are open. Check the inlet hoses for kinks or restrictions.
Check the Drain Hose
A clogged or incorrectly positioned drain hose can cause problems during the drain or spin portion of the cycle.
Does Unplugging a Maytag Washer Erase the Error Code?
Not necessarily.
Unplugging the washer can clear some temporary electronic faults, but an error code may return if the underlying problem is still present.
For example, if the washer detects a continuing drain, water supply, door-lock, or control problem, the code may appear again after the washer is restarted.
How Long Should You Leave a Maytag Washer Unplugged?
For a basic power reset, leaving the washer unplugged for about 5 minutes is a reasonable troubleshooting step.
After reconnecting the power, give the control panel a few moments to initialize before starting a cycle.
When Should You Call for Professional Repair?
If the washer continues to malfunction after resetting it and performing basic checks, the problem may involve an electrical or mechanical component.
Consider professional service if the washer:
Will not turn on
Repeatedly displays the same error code
Makes unusual noises
Leaks water
Does not drain
Does not spin
Stops during every cycle
Trips the circuit breaker repeatedly
Has a burning smell
Do not continue using the washer if you notice smoke, a burning odor, damaged wiring, or other signs of an electrical problem.
Final Thoughts
Resetting a Maytag washer is a simple troubleshooting step that can resolve temporary control or electronic problems. Start by unplugging the washer for about five minutes, reconnecting it, and trying a new cycle.
If the problem comes back after the reset, however, the washer may have an underlying issue that requires additional troubleshooting or professional repair. The exact reset procedure and error-code meaning can also vary by Maytag model, so checking the model-specific instructions is important.