Do you ever feel like your Maytag top load washer isn’t draining properly or cleaning as effectively as it once did? The problem might be your washer’s filter. Top-load Maytag washing machines have a filter located underneath the agitator in the center of the wash tub.
This round filter at the base catches all kinds of gunk during the wash cycle – coins, buttons, dirt, lint, and debris. Over time it can get clogged up and prevent proper drainage. Knowing exactly how to remove and clean this key maintenance part ensures your Maytag washer can handle load after load while avoiding nasty backups.
Thankfully accessing your Maytag’s filter only takes a few tools and getting your hands a bit wet. Once the agitator unscrews, simply peer down the center shaft while feeling around the tub floor for the filter. Give it a little twist counterclockwise to release then lift it out gently. Rinse debris, replace properly, and test for leaks.
Maytag Top Load Washer Filter Location
While front load washers have self-cleaning filters, Maytag top load models need regular manual maintenance to maximize cleaning performance and machine lifespan. But armed with the proper steps, keeping your Maytag’s often-forgotten filter clean is a quick chore!
Do you own a Maytag top-load washing machine? Over time, dirt, debris, and lint can build up in the filter and reduce your washer’s performance. Knowing where the filter is located and how to clean it properly is key to keeping your washer running efficiently for years to come.
About Maytag Top Load Washer Filter Location
Maytag top load washers have the filter located at the bottom of the outer tub, underneath the agitator. To access it, you need to remove the agitator. The location allows water to flow through while trapping objects that could clog drainage and damage internal components.
Key Features of the Maytag Top Load Washer Filter:
- Located under the agitator at the bottom of the wash tub
- Made of durable plastic to withstand high water pressure
- Fine mesh screen design to capture objects while allowing water flow
- Removable for periodic inspection and cleaning
Pros: Easy access once agitator is removed, self-cleaning with drain water flow
Cons: Needs manual cleaning and takes some effort to access
While front-load washers tend to have self-cleaning filters, top-load models require periodic inspection and cleaning.
Step-By-Step Guide to Access and Clean Maytag Top Load Washer Filter
Cleaning your Maytag top load washer’s filter ensures proper water drainage and protects internal components from damage. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Tools You Will Need:
- Flashlight
- Gloves
- Small mirror (optional)
Step 1: Unplug the Washer and Turn Off the Water Supply
Unplug the power cord for safety. Also, turn off the hot and cold knobs on the water supply line. This releases pressure and ensures no leaks occur during filter removal.
Step 2: Remove Agitator
The agitator is held in place by a bolt in the middle. Turn this bolt counterclockwise and lift straight up to remove the agitator. Set it aside carefully.
- Use a flashlight to see down into the exposed center tube.
- Check if water remains trapped from the last cycle. Use a small cup to remove any standing water.
Step 3: Locate Filter
- Using your flashlight, peer down the exposed center tube to locate the filter at the base.
- You need to reach your hand about halfway down to access it.
- A small mirror can help reflect light if the bottom is difficult to see.
Step 4: Remove the Filter and Clean the Debris
Take your time grasping the filter with your gloved hand. Twist gently counterclockwise to release from the threads. Slowly pull up to remove.
- Give the filter a rinse under running water and use an old toothbrush to dislodge trapped lint and debris.
- Avoid using harsh cleaners that could degrade the plastic mesh over time.
Step 5: Replace Filter Properly
Double-check that any packing material inside the opening is properly positioned before replacing it. This helps prevent leaks around the filter.
Line up the filter and slowly twist clockwise while gently pushing down to reattach. Take care not to cross-thread. Make sure the filter feels snug once fully seated.
Step 6: Replace Agitator and Accessories
Simply align the agitator bolt shaft into the opening and push it straight down firmly. The agitator should drop into place. Rotate clockwise to fasten back securely.
Plug the machine back in and turn on the water supply. Run a test cycle while watching underneath to ensure no leaks occur from the filter area.
And that’s it! Properly maintaining your Maytag top load washer filter prevents expensive clogs or part failures down the road.
10 Best Alternatives to Maytag Top Load Washers
While Maytag makes excellent top-load washers, other brands offer comparable or even improved performance and features:
- Speed Queen Top Load Washer – Commercial grade quality with robust wash action and proven reliability.
- LG Turbowash Top Load Washer – Loads quickly wash thanks to powerful jet spray soaking and cleaning.
- Whirlpool Top Load Agitator Washer – Affordable workhorse design with built-in water heating option.
- GE GTW685 Top Load Washer – WiFi-enabled model with smartphone app and remote monitoring.
- Samsung WA52M7750 Top Load Washer – Loaded with tech innovations like auto detergent dispenser.
- Electrolux EFLS517SIW Top Load Washer – Perfect mix front load cleaning in traditional top loader design.
- Amana NTW4516FW Top Load Washer – This basic and budget-friendly option still packs plenty of cycles/options.
- Haier HLP21N Pulsator Washer – Unique pulsator clean technology with vented dryer pairing.
- Bosch 500 Series Top Load Washer – Nearly silent operation at only 46 dBA while running.
- Miele W1 Classic Top Load Washer – High-end construction with built-to-last reliability.
While less common these days, old-school top-loading washers still have a loyal following. Several brands engineer their agitator models to balance cleaning effectiveness with gentle fabric care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maytag Top Load Washer Filters
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about maintaining and cleaning the filter on Maytag top-load washing machines:
- How often should I clean the filter?
Most experts recommend checking and cleaning your Maytag washer filter every 6 months. Clean more frequently if you routinely wash bulky items like bedding that can capture more lint and debris.
- How do I know when the filter needs cleaning?
Visible lint collecting on clothes, water draining slower, or musty smells are key indicators that your Maytag filter needs a good cleaning. Not catching buildup early can lead to drain clogs.
- Are there any safety precautions?
Yes – always unplug the washer and turn off the water supply for safety before attempting to access internal components like the filter. Wearing gloves also protects from sharp edges.
- What is the best method to clean debris from the filter?
Use an old toothbrush and water to gently dislodge trapped lint and debris from your Maytag washer filter mesh screen. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that could degrade materials over time.
- Can I run my washer without the filter in place?
No! Operating your Maytag top load washer without the filter properly seated could allow objects to enter the interior workings causing jams or leaks. Always replace your hand tight.
- How can I avoid future filter clogs?
Check pockets and shake out laundry before washing to prevent lint/debris transfer. Separate heavy shedders like towels or pet bedding into their own loads. Start the washer promptly after loading so damp clothing doesn’t sit stagnant.
- What if my filter keeps loosening during washes?
This likely indicates your filter was not fully seated or sufficiently tightened. Review installation steps to ensure filter engagement threads catch properly with a firm turn clockwise into the base opening. Consider replacing if cross-threaded.
- Why does my washer make noise when the filter is clogged?
Excess buildup obstructs proper water flow, leading to pump cavitation noise on spin cycles as airflow tries to force drainage. Clear debris to restore quiet operation.
- Where can I order a replacement filter?
Replacement Maytag washer filters are available on the manufacturer’s website or in appliance parts supply stores. Have the model number handy for proper sizing and fit. Consider upgrading to a more durable stainless steel mesh filter.
- What if I lost grip of the filter and it fell further down?
First, try using needle nose pliers or a hooked device to retrieve it through the center access tube. If it lodged out of reach, carefully tilt the machine backward to locate the filter trapped in the basin cavity. Removing rear panels grants hand access if needed for retrieval.
- I broke my Maytag agitator trying to remove it. Any alternatives?
If the agitator shaft or base becomes damaged, you may be able to operate cycles temporarily without it. However, wash performance will degrade and internal part failures could still result without its low friction stabilizing function. Your best option is to promptly replace a broken Maytag agitator.
- How can I make removing the agitator easier next time?
Apply penetrating lubricant to the bolt threads and agitator cogs beforehand which eases disassembly. Lift gently in a straight pulling motion to avoid cracking plastic fins. Consider upgrading to a stainless steel agitator kit for durability.
- What special tools can make accessing the filter easier?
A high-power magnetic grabber pickup tool allows the grasping of small metal objects that fall into the basket. An extendable inspection mirror helps illuminate the inside while a flexible claw grabber reaches filters beyond arm depth. Use a micro inspection camera for remote control precision.
- Could drain restrictions indicate bigger problems?
Yes – a continually clogged Maytag filter suggests a potential failure of internal seals, hoses, or pump impeller damage allowing debris infiltration. Leaky door boots also bypass traps. Confirm no leaks or faults via self-test modes before assuming simple debris buildup as the sole issue. Consider washer teardown or replacement if persistent.
- My Maytag washer leaks from the filter area – what should I check?
Ensure the filter is fully seated tight by hand in a clockwise direction. Examine the seal for any nicks or defects that compromise water integrity. Remove extra filter types like lint traps that could impair proper fit. Check that packed filter cavity o-rings remain flexible and engagement grooves are debris-free before reinstalling the main filter. Consider replacement seals or filters if determined as faulty.
- Can third-party Maytag washing machine filter upgrades help?
Yes, aftermarket inline or recirculating filter kits screen out more lint, debris, and microfibers than standard mesh models – sending cleaner water through pump systems. Adapter-style filters easily mount around outlet tube openings while mount types fasten to casing exteriors via compression fit or suction. Upgrade in durability and filtration.
- What wash problems occur from delayed filter maintenance?
Neglected lint and debris carryover ultimately winds up packed around internal bearings, shafts, and under seals causing unpredictable jams or leaks during high-speed spin movements. Botched friction strips lead to failed transmissions. Clogged water channels reduce flow for ineffective cleaning results. Caught detergent clumps distribution. Technical issues follow poor filter upkeep!
- Why does my Maytag washer struggle to drain after cleaning the filter?
While the filter may appear cleared of debris, blockages in the drain hose, siphon tube, or basin cavity could impede proper water outflow. Check for kinks, crush spots, and obstructions in the narrow plastic drainage line. Use a wire snake brush to scrub out openings caked in buildup. Ensure basin ports are unobstructed around the agitator.
- Where should I wring out lint debris cleaned from the Maytag washer filter?
For freshly cleaned lint, first, wrap it in a paper towel to absorb moisture then dispose of it in trash. Wet lint placed into clothes dryer ducting can accumulate over time, increasing fire hazard. Alternatively, dedicated inline or self-cleaning lint traps safely capture and condense in feminine product disposal bins. Follow local ordinances on lint debris.
- What maintenance steps prevent future Maytag washer filter clogs?
Start by ensuring pockets are emptied before washing. Separate heavy lint-shedding items into their cycles. Scrape pet hair debris from fabrics instead of rinsing it down the drain. Use lint removal tape rollers on clothes pre-wash. Install secondary inline lint filters to catch slip past. Avoid overloading – use appropriate cycle settings and detergent amounts for load size.
- How often should I replace the main filter?
Plan on replacing your Maytag top load washer filter at least once every 4 years or so, unless signs of cracking, deformities, or tears occur first. Bleach detergents and chemical corrosion weaken plastic mesh over repeated use. Consider proactive stainless steel or nylon mesh screen upgrades for extended reliability.
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Conclusion:
Maytag top-load washing machines require periodic filter inspection and cleaning to prevent performance issues or damage over time.
Learning the proper technique to access and clear debris takes some effort but pays dividends by extending your appliance’s lifespan.
Alternatively, several quality top loader models from other brands are worth consideration when shopping for replacement washers.
Just be sure any washer’s filter receives regular maintenance!
