When it comes to appliances, Maytag is one of the most reliable and trusted brands. With their range of products famous in their own right, Maytag has built a reputation for durable and quality products, especially in the laundry industry. But what do you do if the Maytag dryer suddenly won't start? In this article, we have researched what you should do when something like this happens.
Maytag provides multiple double-checking methods and solutions for you to do when your dryer suddenly stops working. Some are just very simple ways; here is the list:
- Was the start button firmly pressed?
- Were the electronic touch controls (on some models) used correctly?
- Has a household fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped?
- Is the door firmly closed/latched?
- Was the correct cycle selected?
- Are the controls locked status light on (some models)?
Interested in finding out more specific details about the mentioned debugging methods? Continue reading as we further explain them one by one and answer more related questions about Maytag dryer malfunctions.
Troubleshooting your Maytag dryer
This section will discuss the above-mentioned ways that Maytag recommends to check and identify whether or not your dryer is actually broken or just not properly booted up.
Was the start button firmly pressed?
The "Start," "Push to Start," or "Hold to Start" button -dependant on the model- requires you to press it for two to five seconds. Failure to do so will not activate the dryer's motor. So double-check if you have indeed pressed the button correctly and not just tapped it.
Were the electronic touch controls (on some models) used correctly?
If your model has electronic touch control, make sure to press it with your fingertip, not your fingernail, as these sensors are sensitive to touch and only react with your fingertips. Make sure that your fingertips are also not wet, as the electronic sensors are also sensitive to moisture or water.
Has a household fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped?
Electronic Maytag dryers require two household fuses or circuit breakers, so check to see if both fuses are intact and tight or if either circuit breaker has not tripped. Try testing the breaker by turning the breaker off and then back on.
Replace the fuse(s) or reset the circuit breaker(s). If it still insists, then it's time to call an electrician. Gas dryers only use one fuse or circuit breaker; just use this same method.
Is the door firmly closed/latched?
Try double checking if your dryer door is closed. It might seem closed, but it might not be latched, so press it down until you feel that it has already sealed. Some models have multiple latches. Maytag dryers won't run unless fully closed. Another idea is checking for things blocking the latch, like clothes.
Was the correct cycle selected?
Your "Cycle Control" knob must be set on the "Automatic Dry" or "Timed Dry" cycle. The dryer is designed to fail to start if set to other settings. We recommend referring to your user manual on the correct cycle your specific model should be as different models differ from one another.
Is the controls locked status light on? (some models)?
If you accidentally left the "Controls Locked" status light on, press and hold the "Cycle Signal" button for three seconds to turn it off. The controls locked serve as a child lock that if turned on your dryer will not start. So simply double-check if the status light is on as this may be the culprit on why your dryer is not running.
Some buttons and controls are named differently depending on the model. We recommend checking your user manual to know the name of the button on your specific model. You can also download or view literature for Maytag's appliances on their manuals and literature page.
We have also written a previous article that tackles a similar problem: "Dryer Won’t Start But Has Power – What To Do?" Check it out if you are also experiencing the same issue with your dryer.
If the above-mentioned techniques still fail, it might be time to have your dryer checked by an electrician. Especially if it is still under warranty, try to make a claim. It is better to have your machine diagnosed early to prevent further damage that may happen to it.
Curious in troubleshooting but have a different dryer brand? Here is a similar article we wrote that might cover your needs: "Amana Dryers Won't Start - What To Do?"
How do you check the start switch on a Maytag dryer?
When you press the start switch, you should hear a noise signaling that your Maytag dryer is running. Check your switch by using a multimeter.
This might require some disassembling, so if you are not comfortable with this, have an electrician do it for you. If there is a lack of continuity in testing, then your start switch might require replacing.
Here is a video that teaches you a step-by-step procedure to check your Maytag dryer switch:
How do you reset a Maytag dryer?
Resetting your dryer is the fix every time an error message occurs as it may hinder your Maytag from running properly. To reset your Maytag dryer, press the "Start" button. After that, push the button or navigation knob that chooses a new cycle and press the "Start/Pause" option.
Here are the error codes for your Maytag dryers: AF, PF, or F paired with a number. Another way of resetting your Maytag dryer is by double-pressing the "Start" button, and then you may now select a new cycle to reset your dryer.
If resetting a cycle is not enough, you can then go on and do a full reset. This is a safe thing to do as errors can cause a thermal overload on your dryer's system.
Unplug the power to the Maytag dryer and wait 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, plug the power in and make a new selection. If the problem continues or the dryer is still not working, disconnect from the power source and call Maytag for service.
How do you put a Maytag dryer in diagnostic mode?
Check to see if your dryer is in standby mode; after that, select any three buttons except for the power and start button. Then by sequence, release the first, second, and third buttons individually, repeat for an additional two more times.
How long should a Maytag dryer last?
A good dryer brand like Maytag could easily last you for 10 to 12 years, depending on your use. Older models are easier to maintain because of the less technology. But proper operation and regular cleaning, especially every after use, would boost the life expectancy of your dryer.
A decade of dryer ownership is usually enough as it would be beneficial for you to upgrade from time to time. This is because dryer technology gets better through time and in turn, will make the job easier for you.
Don't worry about the reliability of Maytag, as they have maintained a reputation throughout the years as one of the most reliable and affordable brands, especially in laundry appliances.
With Maytag's 10 year warranty for limited parts there to back you up, your dryer will surely last you for a long time. It is noteworthy that getting higher-end models of their dryer is better, as more premium materials are used in building it.
In summary
There are a lot of things you can do to check if your dryer is actually broken or you just haven't started it right. Sometimes, because we are in a rush, we tend to not press the start button properly or close the latch fully, so these are things to be careful about. If you've checked everything and it's still not working, you can always call for tech support or have a professional check it out for you.