Maytag Top Load Washer Owner's Manual
Washer Safety
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. Read and obey all safety messages. The safety alert symbol ⚠️ indicates potential hazards that can kill or hurt you and others. Safety messages will be preceded by "DANGER" or "WARNING." DANGER means you can be killed or seriously injured if you don't follow instructions immediately. WARNING means you can be killed or seriously injured if you don't follow instructions. These messages will tell you the potential hazard, how to reduce the risk of injury, and what can happen if instructions are not followed.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
- Read all instructions before using the appliance.
- Do not wash articles previously cleaned in, washed in, soaked in, or spotted with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable or explosive substances, as they give off vapors that could ignite or explode.
- Do not add gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable or explosive substances to the wash water.
- Under certain conditions, hydrogen gas may be produced in a hot-water system that has not been used for 2 weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXPLOSIVE. If the hot-water system has not been used for such a period, turn on all hot-water faucets and let the water flow from each for several minutes to release any accumulated hydrogen gas. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
- Do not allow children to play on or in the appliance. Close supervision of children is necessary when the appliance is used near children.
- Before the appliance is removed from service or discarded, remove the door.
- Do not reach into the appliance if the tub or agitator is moving.
- Do not install or store this appliance where it will be exposed to the weather.
- Do not tamper with controls.
- Do not repair or replace any part of the appliance or attempt any servicing unless specifically recommended in the user-maintenance instructions or in published user-repair instructions that you understand and have the skills to carry out.
- Do not use replacement parts that have not been recommended by the manufacturer (e.g., parts made at home using a 3D printer).
- See the Installation Instructions for grounding requirements and installation.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING Certain internal parts are intentionally not grounded and may present a risk of electric shock only during servicing. Service Personnel – Do not contact the thermostat bracket while the appliance is energized.
Choosing the Right Detergent
Use only High Efficiency (HE) detergents, marked "HE" or "High Efficiency." Low-water washing with non-HE detergents creates excessive suds, leading to longer cycle times, reduced rinsing performance, component malfunction, and potential mold or mildew buildup. HE detergents should be low-sudsing and quick-dispersing for optimal performance, holding soil in suspension to prevent redeposit. Always follow the detergent manufacturer's instructions for the amount to use and do not exceed the "Max Line" on the dispenser.
Washer Maintenance and Care
Water Inlet Hoses
Replace inlet hoses every 5 years to reduce the risk of hose failure. Periodically inspect hoses for bulges, kinks, cuts, wear, or leaks and replace as needed. When replacing hoses, mark the replacement date on the label, ensure old washers are removed from the washer inlet valves, and use new washers in the new hoses for a proper seal. Note: This washer may not include inlet hoses; refer to Installation Instructions.
Washer Care
To keep your washer clean and performing optimally:
- Always use HE detergents and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the amount. Using more than recommended can increase soil and detergent residue buildup, leading to odors.
- Use warm and hot wash water settings periodically (not exclusively cold water washes) to better control soil and detergent accumulation.
- Always leave the washer lid open between uses to help dry out the washer and prevent odor-causing residue buildup.
Cleaning Your Top-Loading Washer
Perform routine cleaning at least once per month or every 30 wash cycles to control residue buildup.
Cleaning the Inside of the Washer
For an odor-free washer, follow usage instructions and the recommended monthly cleaning procedure:
Recommended Cycle for Cleaning the Washer: Some models have a "Clean Washer" cycle. If your model does not, refer to the online Cycle Guide for the optimal cycle. Use this cycle with affresh® Washer Cleaner or liquid chlorine bleach.
Description of Clean Washer with affresh® Cycle Operation: This cycle fills to a higher water level than normal wash cycles, providing rinsing above the normal water line. It includes agitation and spinning to improve soil removal. After the cycle, leave the lid open for ventilation and drying.
Begin Procedure:
- Affresh® Washer Cleaner Cycle: Open the lid, remove items. Place one affresh® Washer Cleaner tablet in the washer basket (not the dispenser). Do not add other chemicals. Close the lid. Select the recommended cleaning cycle and press Start. Do not interrupt the cycle. If interruption is necessary, press Power/Cancel or Start/Pause for three seconds. After the cycle, run a Rinse & Spin cycle.
- Chlorine Bleach Procedure (Alternative): Open the lid, remove items. Add 1 cup (236 mL) of liquid chlorine bleach to the bleach compartment. Do not add other chemicals. Close the lid. Select the recommended cleaning cycle and press Start. Do not interrupt the cycle. If interruption is necessary, press Power/Cancel or Start/Pause for three seconds. After the cycle, run a Rinse & Spin cycle.
Cleaning the Dispensers
Residue may build up in dispensers. Important: Dispensers are not dishwasher-safe.
- For non-removable dispensers: Wipe with an affresh® Machine Cleaning Wipe or a damp cloth and towel dry. Do not attempt to remove dispensers or trim.
- For removable dispensers: If your model has a dispenser drawer, press the tab(s) to remove it. Clean with an affresh® Machine Cleaning Wipe or a damp cloth and towel dry before or after running the Clean Washer cycle. Use an all-purpose surface cleaner if needed.
Cleaning the Outside of the Washer
Important: Do not use abrasive products to avoid damaging the washer's finish. Wipe away spills with an affresh® Machine Cleaning Wipe, a soft damp cloth, or sponge. Use affresh® Machine Cleaning Wipes or mild soaps/cleaners for external surfaces.
Nonuse and Vacation Care
Operate your washer only when you are home. If moving or not using the washer for an extended period, follow these steps:
- Unplug or disconnect the power supply.
- Turn off the water supply to the washer to prevent flooding due to water pressure surges.
Winter Storage Care
Important: To avoid damage, install and store the washer where it will not freeze. Water remaining in hoses can cause damage in freezing temperatures. If storing or moving during freezing weather, winterize the washer.
To Winterize Washer:
- Shut off both water faucets and disconnect and drain water inlet hoses.
- Put 1 L (1 qt.) of R.V.-type antifreeze in the basket and run the washer on a Rinse & Spin cycle for about 30 seconds to mix the antifreeze with remaining water.
- Unplug the washer or disconnect the power.
Transporting Your Washer
- Shut off both water faucets and disconnect and drain water inlet hoses.
- If moving during freezing weather, follow "Winter Storage Care" directions before moving.
- Disconnect the drain hose from the drain system and drain any remaining water into a pan or bucket. Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer.
- Unplug the power cord.
- Place inlet hoses and drain hose inside the washer basket.
- Drape the power cord over the edge and into the washer basket.
- Place original shipping materials back inside the washer. If unavailable, use heavy blankets or towels in the basket opening. Close the lid and tape it shut, including down the front of the washer. Keep the lid taped until the washer is placed in its new location. Transport the washer in an upright position.
Reinstalling/Using Washer Again
AWARNING Electrical Shock Hazard
Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove ground prong. Do not use an adapter. Do not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
To reinstall washer after nonuse, vacation, winter storage, or moving:
- Refer to Installation Instructions to locate, level, and connect the washer.
- Before using again, run the washer through the following recommended procedure:
To Use Washer Again:
- Flush water pipes and hoses.
- Reconnect water inlet hoses.
- Turn on both water faucets.
- Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet or reconnect power.
- See your online Cycle Guide for information about which cycle(s) to run your washer through to clean it and remove antifreeze, if used. Use only HE High Efficiency detergent, half the manufacturer's recommended amount for a medium-size load.
Installation Instructions
Tools and Parts
Gather required tools and parts before starting installation.
Tools Needed: Adjustable or open end wrench (9/16" / 14 mm), Level, Ruler or measuring tape, Wood block, Adjustable pliers (open to 1 3/4" / 45 mm), Flashlight, Bucket.
Parts Supplied: Drain hose with clamp, U-form, and cable tie.
Parts Needed (if not supplied with washer): Inlet hoses with flat washers.
Alternate Parts (not supplied with washer): Your installation may require additional parts. Refer to your Quick Start Guide for ordering information.
- Overhead sewer: Standard 20 gal. (76 L) 39" (990 mm) tall drain tub or utility sink, sump pump, and connectors.
- 1" (25 mm) standpipe: 2" (51 mm) diameter to 1" (25mm) diameter standpipe adapter and connector kit.
- Drain hose too short: Extension drain hose and connector kit.
- Lint-clogged drain: Drain protector and connector kit.
Location Requirements
Select a proper location for your washer to improve performance and minimize noise and "washer walk." Install in a basement, laundry room, closet, or recessed area. Important: Do not install, store, or operate where exposed to weather or temperatures below 32°F (0°C). Water remaining in the washer after use may cause damage in low temperatures. Proper installation is your responsibility.
You will need:
- A water heater set to 120°F (49°C).
- A grounded electrical outlet within 4 ft. (1.2 m) of the power cord.
- Hot and cold water faucets within 3 ft. (0.9 m) of hot and cold water fill valves, with water pressure of 20-100 psi (138-690 kPa).
- A level floor with a maximum slope of 1" (25 mm) under the entire washer. Installation on carpet or surfaces with foam backing is not recommended.
- The floor must support the washer's total weight (with water and load) of 315 lbs. (143 kgs).
Recessed area or closet installation
All dimensions show recommended spacing, except for closet door ventilation openings, which are minimum required. This washer has been tested for 0" (0 mm) clearance on the sides. Consider allowing more space for installation and servicing, and for clearances to walls, doors, and floor moldings. Add 1" (25 mm) on all sides to reduce noise transfer. If a closet door or louvered door is installed, top and bottom air openings in the door are required.
*For additional details specific to your model, refer to your Quick Start Guide.
Drain System
The drain system can be installed using a floor drain, wall standpipe, floor standpipe, or laundry tub. Select the method you need.
Important: To avoid siphoning, no more than 4.5" (114 mm) of drain hose should be inside the standpipe or below the top of the wash tub. Secure the drain hose with a cable tie.
- Floor standpipe drain system: Minimum diameter for a standpipe drain: 2" (51 mm). Minimum carry-away capacity: 17 gal. (64 L) per minute. Top of standpipe must be at least 39" (990 mm) high; install no higher than 96" (2.44 m) from the bottom of the washer. If you must install higher than 96" (2.44 m), you will need a sump pump system.
- Wall standpipe drain system: See requirements in the "Floor standpipe drain system" section.
- Laundry tub drain system: Minimum capacity: 20 gal. (76 L). Top of laundry tub must be at least 39" (990 mm) above the floor; install no higher than 96" (2.44 m) from the bottom of the washer.
Floor Drain System
Requires a Siphon Break Kit, 2 Connector Kits, and an Extension Drain Hose (available separately). Minimum siphon break height: 28" (710 mm) from the bottom of the washer.
Electrical Requirements
AWARNING Electrical Shock Hazard
Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove ground prong. Do not use an adapter. Do not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.
- A 120 V, 60 Hz, AC-only, 15 or 20 A, fused electrical supply is required. A time-delay fuse or circuit breaker is recommended. A separate circuit breaker serving only this appliance is recommended.
- This washer is equipped with a power supply cord having a 3-prong grounding plug. To minimize shock hazard, plug the cord into a mating, 3-prong, grounding-type outlet, grounded in accordance with local codes and ordinances. If a mating outlet is not available, it is the customer's responsibility to have a properly grounded outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
- If codes permit and a separate ground wire is used, it is recommended that a qualified electrician determine that the ground path is adequate.
- Do not ground to a gas pipe.
- Check with a qualified electrician if you are unsure the washer is properly grounded.
- Do not have a fuse in the neutral or ground circuit.
Grounding Instructions
For a grounded, cord-connected appliance: This appliance must be grounded. Grounding reduces the risk of electric shock by providing a path of least resistance for electric current. This appliance has a cord with an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be inserted into an appropriate outlet that is installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
WARNING: Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. Check with a qualified electrician or service representative if you are in doubt. Do not modify the plug; if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
For a permanently connected appliance: Connect to a grounded metal, permanent wiring system, or run an equipment-grounding conductor with the circuit conductors and connect it to the equipment-grounding terminal or lead on the appliance.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Installation
Unpacking
AWARNING Excessive Weight Hazard
Use two or more people to move and install or uninstall the appliance. Failure to do so can result in back or other injury.
Before you start: remove shipping materials. All shipping materials must be removed for proper operation and to avoid excessive noise.
- Move Washer: Move the washer to within 4 ft. (1.2 m) of its final location, keeping it in an upright position. Note: To avoid floor damage, place the washer on cardboard before moving and ensure the lid is taped shut.
- Remove shipping base: Important: Removing the shipping base is necessary for proper operation. If your washer includes a sound shield, refer to its installation instructions. To avoid floor damage, place cardboard supports from the shipping carton on the floor behind the washer. Tip the washer back and place it on the supports. Remove the shipping base (some models require rotating it 90° to the right before removal). Set the washer upright.
- Remove packaging material from inside washer: Remove tape from the washer lid, open it, and remove all packaging materials from the washer tub. Ensure all parts have been removed. Note: Keep packaging material for future moves.
- Free power cord: Firmly grasp the power cord plug and pull to free it from the rear panel. Gently place the power cord over the console to allow free access to the back of the washer.
Connect Drain Hose
- Attach drain hose to drain port: If applicable, remove the red plastic plug from the black drain port on the back of the washer. If the clamp is not already on the elbow end of the drain hose, slide it over the end. Squeeze the clamp with pliers and slide the black elbow end of the drain hose onto the black drain port and secure with the clamp. For a laundry tub or standpipe drain, proceed to step 6. For a floor drain, remove the pre-installed drain hose form as shown in step 7. You may need additional parts with separate directions (see "Alternate Parts" section).
- Place drain hose in standpipe: Important: 4.5" (114 mm) of the drain hose should be inside the standpipe; do not force excess hose into the standpipe or lay it on the bottom of the laundry tub. The drain hose form must be used. Place the hose into the standpipe (as shown) or over the side of the laundry tub.
- Remove drain hose form (floor drain installations only): For floor drain installations, remove the drain hose form from the end of the drain hose. You may need additional parts with separate directions (see "Tools and Parts"). It is the installer's responsibility to install and secure the drain hose into the provided plumbing/drain to prevent it from coming out and causing leaks.
Connect Inlet Hoses
Washer must be connected to water faucets with new inlet hoses with flat washers (not provided). Do not use old hoses. Note: Both hoses must be attached, and water must flow to the inlet valves. If connecting to only a cold water faucet, use a Y-adapter (not provided).
- Connect inlet hoses to water faucets: Important: Do not overtighten hose or use tape or sealants on the valve, as damage can result. Attach the hose to the hot water faucet. Screw on the coupling by hand until it is seated on the washer. Use adjustable pliers to tighten the couplings an additional two-thirds turn. Repeat this step with the second hose for the cold water faucet.
- Clear water lines: Run water for a few seconds through the hoses into a laundry tub, drainpipe, or bucket to prevent clogs. Water should run clear. Note which hose is connected to hot water to help attach hoses to the washer correctly.
- Check for leaks: Open the water faucets to check for leaks. A small amount of water may enter the washer; it will drain later.
- Secure drain hose: Secure the drain hose to the laundry tub leg, drain standpipe, or inlet hoses for a wall standpipe with a cable tie. It is the installer's responsibility to install and secure the drain hose into the provided plumbing/drain to prevent it from coming out and causing leaks.
Level Washer
Note: Level the washer properly to reduce excess noise and vibration.
- Check levelness of washer: Move the washer to its final location. Place a level on the top edges of the washer. Use a side seam as a guide to check the levelness of the sides. Check the levelness of the front using the lid, as shown. Rock the washer back and forth to ensure all four feet make solid contact with the floor. If the washer is level, skip to step 15.
- Adjust leveling feet: If the washer is not level, use adjustable pliers to turn the plastic leveling foot counterclockwise to lower the washer or clockwise to raise it. Recheck the levelness and repeat as needed.
Helpful Tips:
- You may need to adjust two different feet to level the unit. Ensure each foot remains secured to the washer's base.
- It may be helpful to prop up the front of the washer about 4" (102 mm) with a wood block or similar object that will support the washer's weight.
Complete Installation Checklist
- Check electrical requirements. Ensure you have the correct electrical supply and recommended grounding method.
- Verify all parts are installed. If an extra part remains, review the steps to see what was skipped.
- Check that you have all of your tools.
- Verify that all shipping materials have been completely removed from the washer.
- Check that the washer is level.
- Verify that the water faucets are on.
- Check for leaks around faucets and inlet hoses.
- Remove protective film from the console and any tape remaining on the washer.
- Check that the washer is plugged into a grounded 3-prong outlet.
- Dispose of/recycle all packaging materials.
- Read the "Washer Maintenance and Care" section.
- To test and clean your washer, measure 1/2 of the normal recommended amount of HE detergent (powdered or liquid) and pour it into the washer basket or detergent dispenser (on some models). Close the lid. Select any cycle. Start the washer and allow it to complete a full cycle.
Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet
AWARNING Electrical Shock Hazard
Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove ground prong. Do not use an adapter. Do not use an extension cord. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death, fire, or electrical shock.