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Maytag Washer F9E1 Error Code
Washer is taking too long to drain on Maytag washers.
The water didn't pump out in the time the washer allows, which is about 8 minutes on front-loaders. Most often the drain hose is kinked, pushed too far into the standpipe or taped shut, the drain is blocked, the pump filter on a front-loader is clogged, or there are too many suds.
Compatible models
Maytag uses F9 E1 on both front-load and top-load washers. Sears PartsDirect lists it as a long drain on the Bravos and Centennial VMW top-loaders.
Also shown as
Some top-load models show Ld or drn for a long or failed drain, and some front-load models show F21 for a drain problem. Drain hose rules differ between front-load and top-load models, so check your installation instructions.
Difficulty
Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Maytag washer codes.
How to fix Maytag F9E1
Straighten and clear the drain hose
Look along the drain hose for kinks, flat sections or clogs and straighten or clear them. Check the standpipe, laundry tub or floor drain it empties into isn't backed up.
Check how the hose sits in the drain
No more than about 4.5 in (11 cm) of hose should go into the standpipe; use the U-shaped hose form that came with the washer. Don't tape the hose so it seals the opening. An air gap around it stops the washer siphoning. Front-loaders need a standpipe between 39 in (99 cm) and 96 in (244 cm) high; on top-loaders the hose end must be higher than 36 in (91 cm) above the floor.
Clean the pump filter (front-load models)
Unplug the washer first and let hot water cool. If your model has a drain pump filter (on some it's behind the lowest drawer or a small front panel; your manual shows where), put down towels and a shallow pan, open it slowly, and remove lint, coins or other debris before screwing it back in firmly. Check the small drain holes inside the door seal while you're there.
Use HE detergent in the right amount
Extra suds slow draining. Use only HE detergent at the dose on the bottle, then run Drain & Spin to test.
When to call a technician
Hose and drain clear, filter clean, and it still won't drain, or the pump hums with no water moving: the drain pump or its wiring needs a technician.
Parts linked to F9E1
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Step-by-step guides for this problem
- Front Load Washer Door Won't Open? Why It's Locked and What to Do
A front-load washer keeps its door locked while there's water in the drum, while the drum is still turning, or while the inside is hot, so a door that won't open usually means the washer hasn't drained.
- How to Clean a Washer Drain Pump Filter (Front-Load Guide)
The drain pump filter sits behind a small door or panel at the bottom front of most front-load washers.
- Washer Won't Drain? 7 Causes and How to Fix Each One
Most washers that won't drain have a kinked drain hose, a pump filter packed with lint and small objects, or too many suds from the wrong detergent.
Frequently asked questions
Which Maytag models show the F9E1 code?
Maytag uses F9 E1 on both front-load and top-load washers. Sears PartsDirect lists it as a long drain on the Bravos and Centennial VMW top-loaders.
Can I fix Maytag F9E1 myself?
Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear F9E1, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.
Other Maytag washer codes
- F8E1Washer is filling too slowly
- F5E1Door or lid switch does not detect it closed
- F5E2Door or lid will not lock
- F5E3Lid lock fault
- LdULid cannot unlock
- F0E5Load is off balance or too large
- SudToo many suds
- F7E1Motor or basket speed problem
- F3E1Water level sensing problem
- F6E2Control, display or wiring fault
- HCHot and cold hoses are reversed
- OLLoad is too large
- rLItems found during Clean Washer cycle
- F8E2Dispenser system problem
- LOCControl lock is on
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.