Maytag dishwasher not draining
Maytag emphasizes standing-water safety, accessible filter/sump checks, and the external drain path before service.
What this guide covers
Symptoms: Dishwasher has standing water / will not drain
This guide follows a structured decision tree built from manufacturer troubleshooting information. It does not assume that the most commonly replaced part is the failed part, and it does not show an exact-fit replacement part unless model compatibility has been independently verified.
Continue this exact diagnostic
Safe troubleshooting sequence
Start with the observations and external checks that can be verified without opening energized assemblies. The interactive version asks these in order and changes the path based on your answers.
- Inspect the accessible filter and sump areaFood debris or broken glass can obstruct the accessible drain area.
- Check the external drain connectionNew disposer installations, a clogged disposer, a kinked hose, or an incorrect high loop can block draining.
What the answers can lead to
Clean the accessible filter / sump area
Accessible debris can prevent normal draining.
Evidence strength: Strong
Correct the external drain path
A blocked or incorrectly installed drain connection can leave water in the tub.
Evidence strength: Strong
The safe external drain checks are exhausted
A drain pump, check valve, control, or internal obstruction may require model-specific service.
Evidence strength: Strong
When professional diagnosis is the safer next step
A drain pump, check valve, control, or internal obstruction may require model-specific service.
Appliance Verdict stops before energized electrical testing, gas-system work, sealed-system work, and other checks that can create unnecessary risk. A technician can use the model, issue, and completed checks from the interactive diagnostic as a starting point.
Repair or replace?
A diagnosis and a repair decision are different questions. Once you have a real repair quote, compare the total repair cost with the all-in price of a comparable replacement. Warranty or protection-plan coverage, appliance age, reliability history, efficiency, and likely future repairs can all matter. Appliance Verdict’s interactive result includes a transparent cost comparison rather than a black-box replacement recommendation.
Manufacturer sources
Dataset reviewed through 2026-09-11. Appliance Verdict is independent and is not endorsed by the manufacturers cited. Always follow the exact owner or service documentation for your model.
Compare this symptom across supported brands →
Browse all Maytag troubleshooting guides →