Maytag refrigerator troubleshooting



Any modern refrigerator is a complex system, where the majority of parts interact with each other. In case of damage of one part, the entire system can fall out, if a breakdown is not corrected in time. The diagnostics of malfunction contributing to the further professional repairs of a refrigerator is the key objective of troubleshooting tables with faults` codes for maytag refrigerators presented below.

Maytag French Door refrigerator troubleshooting

The range of Maytag French door refrigerators currently includes over a dozen models. Some of the innovations include steel shelves with undershelf LED lighting, the PowerCold feature, and an adjustable-temperature refrigerated drawer.

PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESSOLUTIONS
The refrigerator will not operateCheck electrical supplyPlug the power cord into a grounded 3 prong outlet.
Do not use an extension cord.
Make sure there is power to the outlet. Plug in a lamp to see if the outlet is working.
Reset a tripped circuit breaker. Replace any blown fuses. NOTE: If problems continue, contact an electrician.
Check controlsMake sure the controls are turned on.
New installationAllow 24 hours following installation for the refrigerator to cool completely. NOTE: Adjusting the temperature controls to the coldest setting will not cool either compartment more quickly.
Refrigerator control is in Showroom mode (on some models)If the refrigerator is in Showroom mode, cooling is turned off and "Showroom" will be illuminated on the control panel.
The motor seems to run too muchHigh efficiency compressor and fansLarger, more efficient refrigerators run longer at lower, more energy efficient speeds.
The room or outdoor temperature is hot.It is normal for the refrigerator to work longer under these conditions. For optimum performance, place the refrigerator in an indoor, temperature controlled environment.
A large amount of warm food has been recently added.Warm food will cause the refrigerator to run longer until the air cools to the desired temperature.
The door(s) are opened too frequently or for too long.Warm air entering the refrigerator causes it to run more. Open the door less often.
The refrigerator door or freezer drawer is ajar.Make sure the refrigerator is level.
The refrigerator control is set too cold.Adjust the refrigerator control to a less cold setting until the refrigerator temperature is as desired.
The door or drawer gasket is dirty, worn, or cracked.Clean or change the gasket. Leaks in the door seal will cause the refrigerator to run longer in order to maintain desired temperatures.
The lights do not workYour refrigerator is equipped with LED lighting which does not need to be replaced.If there is power to the refrigerator and the lights do not illuminate when a door or drawer is opened, call for service or assistance.
The dispenser light is set to OFFOn some models, the dispenser light will operate only when a dispenser paddle is pressed. If you want the dispenser light to stay on continuously
Doors have been open longer than 10 minutesClose the doors and drawer to reset, and open to resume lighted task.
Pantry Temperature Control not lit/unresponsiveThe refrigerator is in Cooling Off modeExit Cooling Off mode.
The refrigerator controls' initialization process did not complete successfully.Unplug the refrigerator, wait 5 seconds. Plug in the refrigerator, and wait 30 seconds before opening any of the refrigerator doors or touching the control panel.
The refrigerator seems noisy Below are listed some normal sounds with explanations.The compressor in your new refrigerator regulates temperature more efficiently while using less energy, and operates quietly. Due to this reduction in operating noise you may notice unfamiliar noises that are normal.
Sound of the compressor running longer than expectedHigh-efficiency compressor and fansLarger, more efficient refrigerators run longer at lower, more energy efficient speeds.
Pulsating/WhirringFans/compressor adjusting to optimize performance during normal compressor operationThis is normal.
PoppingContraction/expansion of inside walls, especially during initial cool-downThis is normal.
Hissing/DrippingFlow of refrigerant, or flow of oil in the compressorThis is normal.
VibrationThe refrigerator may not be steadyAdjust the leveling screws and lower the leveling foot firmly against the floor.
Rattling/BangingMovement of the water lines against the refrigerator cabinet, or of items placed on top of the refrigerator cabinetMove excess water line away from the refrigerator cabinet or fasten excess tubing to the cabinet.
“Connecting the Water," or remove items from the top of the refrigerator.
SizzlingWater dripping on the heater during defrost cycleThis is normal.
Water running/GurglingMay be heard when ice melts during the defrost cycle and water runs into the drain panThis is normal.
Buzzing and ClickingHeard when the water valve opens and closes to dispense water and/or fill the ice maker.If the refrigerator is connected to a water line, this is normal. If the refrigerator is not connected to a water line, turn OFF the ice maker.
Repetitive ClickingDual evaporator valve regulating the cooling operationYou may hear rapid repetitive clicking sounds as the unit switches from cooling one compartment to cooling the other. This sound is normal.
Creaking/Cracking/GrindingMay be heard as ice is being ejected from the ice maker moldThis is normal.
ClatterMay be heard when the ice falls into the ice storage binThis is normal.
SizzlingWater dripping on the heater during defrost cycleThis is normal.
Water running/GurglingMay be heard when ice melts during the defrost cycle and water runs into the drain panThis is normal.
Buzzing and ClickingHeard when the water valve opens and closes to dispense water and/or fill the ice maker.If the refrigerator is connected to a water line, this is normal. If the refrigerator is not connected to a water line, turn OFF the ice maker.
Repetitive ClickingDual evaporator valve regulating the cooling operationYou may hear rapid repetitive clicking sounds as the unit switches from cooling one compartment to cooling the other. This sound is normal.
Creaking/Cracking/GrindingMay be heard as ice is being ejected from the ice maker moldThis is normal.
ClatterMay be heard when the ice falls into the ice storage binThis is normal.
The ice maker is not producing ice or is not producing enough iceThe refrigerator is not connected to a water supply or the water supply shutoff valve is not turned on.Connect refrigerator to water supply and turn water shutoff valve fully open.
There is a kink in the water source line.A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line.
The ice maker is not turned on.Make sure the ice maker is on.
The refrigerator has just been installed.Wait 24 hours after ice maker installation for ice production to begin. Wait 3 days for full ice production.
The refrigerator door is not closed completely.Close the door firmly. If it does not close completely
A large amount of ice was recently removed.Allow sufficient time for ice maker to produce more ice.
An ice cube is jammed in the ice maker ejector arm.Remove ice from the ejector arm with a plastic utensil.
A water filter is installed on the refrigerator.Remove the water filter and operate the ice maker. If ice volume improves, then the filter may be clogged or incorrectly installed. Replace filter or reinstall it correctly.
A reverse osmosis water filtration system is connected to your cold water supply.This can decrease water pressure.
The ice cubes are hollow or small NOTE: This is an indication of low water pressure.The water shutoff valve is not fully open.Turn the water shutoff valve fully open.
There is a kink in the water source line.A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line.
A water filter is installed on the refrigerator.Remove filter and operate ice maker. If ice quality improves, then the filter may be clogged or incorrectly installed. Replace filter or reinstall it correctly.
A reverse osmosis water filtration system is connected to your cold water supply.This can decrease water pressure.
Questions remain regarding water pressure.Call a licensed, qualified plumber.
The ice maker is not producing ice or is not producing enough iceThe refrigerator is not connected to a water supply or the water supply shutoff valve is not turned on.Connect refrigerator to water supply and turn water shutoff valve fully open.
There is a kink in the water source line.A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line.
The ice maker is not turned on.Make sure the ice maker is on.
The refrigerator has just been installed.Wait 24 hours after ice maker installation for ice production to begin. Wait 3 days for full ice production.
The refrigerator door is not closed completely.Close the door firmly. If it does not close completely
A large amount of ice was recently removed.Allow sufficient time for ice maker to produce more ice.
An ice cube is jammed in the ice maker ejector arm.Remove ice from the ejector arm with a plastic utensil.
A water filter is installed on the refrigerator.Remove the water filter and operate the ice maker. If ice volume improves, then the filter may be clogged or incorrectly installed. Replace filter or reinstall it correctly.
A reverse osmosis water filtration system is connected to your cold water supply.This can decrease water pressure.
The ice cubes are hollow or small NOTE: This is an indication of low water pressure.The water shutoff valve is not fully open.Turn the water shutoff valve fully open.
There is a kink in the water source line.A kink in the line can reduce water flow. Straighten the water source line.
A water filter is installed on the refrigerator.Remove filter and operate ice maker. If ice quality improves, then the filter may be clogged or incorrectly installed. Replace filter or reinstall it correctly.
A reverse osmosis water filtration system is connected to your cold water supply.This can decrease water pressure.
Questions remain regarding water pressure.Call a licensed, qualified plumber.
Water is leaking or dripping from the dispenser system NOTE: A few drops of water after dispensing is normal.The glass was not held under the dispenser long enough.Hold the glass under the dispenser 2 to 3 seconds after releasing the dispenser lever.
Water continues to drip from the dispenser beyond the first few drops.The refrigerator has just been installed.Flushing the water system removes the air from the lines which causes the water dispenser to drip. Flush the water system.
The water filter was recently installed or replaced.Flushing the water system removes the air from the lines which causes the water dispenser to drip. Flush the water system.
Water is leaking from the back of the refrigeratorThe water line connections were not fully tightened.
Recently removed the doors and did not fully tighten water line connection
Water from the dispenser is warmWater from the dispenser is chilled to 50°F (10°C).This is normal.
The refrigerator has just been installed.Allow 24 hours after installation for the water supply to cool completely.
A large amount of water was recently dispensed.Allow 3 hours for the water supply to cool completely.
Water has not been recently dispensed.The first glass of water may not be cool. Discard the first glass of water dispensed.
The refrigerator is not connected to a cold water pipe.Make sure the refrigerator is connected to a cold water pipe.

Maytag Ice series refrigerator troubleshooting

The Maytag Ice range comprises several models equipped with an ice-maker, as well as an ice dispenser. They feature a humidity control, a vacation mode, a temperature alarm, and a Sabbath mode. The refrigerator compartment has two doors.

PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESWHAT TO DO
Freezer control and lights are on, but compressor is not operating• Refrigerator is in defrost mode.• Normal operation.
Wait 40 minutes to see if refrigerator restarts.
Temperature-controlled drawers are too warm• Control settings are too low.
• Freezer controls are set too low.
• Drawer is improperly positioned.
Refrigerator does not operate• Refrigerator is not plugged in.• Plug in refrigerator.
• Touch temperature controls are set to “OFF".
• Fuse is blown, or circuit breaker needs to be reset• Replace any blown fuses. Check circuit breaker and reset if necessary.
• Power outage has occurred.• Call local power company listing to report outage.
Refrigerator still won’t operate• Refrigerator is malfunctioning.• Unplug refrigerator and transfer food to another refrigerator. If another refrigerator is not available, place dry ice in freezer section to preserve food. Warranty does not cover food loss. Contact service for assistance.
Food temperature is too cold• Condenser coils are dirty.
• Refrigerator or freezer controls are set too cold.
• Food is too close to upper left air inlet• Relocate food.
• Ice bin not locked in place.
Food temperature is too warm• Door is not closing properly.• Refrigerator is not level.
• Check gaskets for proper seal.
• Check for internal obstructions that are keeping door from closing properly (Le. improperly closed drawers, ice buckets, oversized or improperly stored containers, etc.)
• Controls need to be adjusted.
• Condenser coils are dirty.
• Rear air grille is blocked.• Check the positioning of food items in fresh food compartment to make sure grille is not blocked. Rear air grills are located at the upper left side and under the crisper drawers of the fresh food compartment
• Door has been opened frequently, or has been opened for long periods of time.• Reduce time door is open. Organize food items efficiently to assure door is open for as short a time as possible.
• Food has recently been added.• Allow time for recently added food to reach refrigerator or freezer temperature or activate Max Cool to accelerate cooling process.
Refrigerator has an odor• Odor producing foods should be covered or wrapped.
• The interior needs cleaning.
All interior light bulbs are off• Refrigerator is not plugged in• Plug in refrigerator.
• Fuse is blown or circuit breaker needs to be reset• Replace any blown fuses.
• Check circuit breaker and reset if necessary.
• Doors have been open for six continuous minutes.• Close all three doors for at least one second.
Water droplets form on inside of refrigerator• Humidity levels are high or door has been been opened frequently.• Reduce time door is open.
• Organize food items efficiently to assure door is open for as short a time as possible.
• Check gaskets for proper seal.• Clean, if necessary
Refrigerator or ice maker makes unfamiliar sounds or seems too loud• Normal operation.
Crisper drawers do not close freely• Contents of drawer or positioning of items in the surrounding compartment could be obstructing drawer.• Reposition food items and containers to avoid interference with the drawers.
• Drawer is not in proper position.
• Refrigerator is not level.
• Drawer channels are dirty or need treatment.• Clean drawer channels with warm, soapy water.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to drawer channels.
Refrigerator runs too frequently• Doors have been opened frequently or for long periods of time.• Reduce time door is open.
• Organize food items efficiently to assure door is open for as short a time as possible.
• Allow interior environment to adjust for period the door has been opened.
• Humidity or heat in surrounding area is high.• Normal operation.
• Food has recently been added.• Allow time for recently added food to reach refrigerator or freezer temperature.
• Refrigerator is exposed to heat by environment or by appliances nearby.• Evaluate your refrigerator's environment Refrigerator may need to be moved to run more efficiently.
• Condenser coils are dirty.
• Controls need to be adjusted.
• Door is not closing properly.• Refrigerator is not level.
• Check gaskets for proper seal.
• Check for internal obstructions that are keeping door from dosing property (i.e. improperly closed drawers, storage bins, oversized or improperly stored containers, etc.)
• Normal operation
Refrigerator is leaking water• Plastic tubing was used to complete water connection.• The manufacturer recommends using copper tubing for installation. Plastic is less durable and can cause leakage. The manufacturer is not responsible for property damage due to improper installation or water connection.
• Improper water valve was installed.• Check water connection procedure. Self-piercing and *•" saddle valves cause low water pressure and may clog the line over time. The manufacturer is not responsible for property damage due to improper installation or water connection.
Water flow is slower than normal• Water pressure is low.• Water pressure must be between 35 to 100 pounds per square inch to function properly. A minimum pressure of 35 pounds per square inch is recommended for refrigerators with water filters.
• Improper water valve was installed.• Check water connection procedure in your Installation Instructions. Self-piercing and V saddle valves cause low water pressure and may clog the line over time. The manufacturer is not responsible for property damage due to improper installation or water connection. Open water valve completely and check for leaks.
• Copper tubing has kinks.• Turn off water supply and remove kinks. If kinks cannot be removed, replace tubing.
• Water filter is clogged or needs to be changed.
Ice storage bin will not close• Ice cube blockage• Remove spilled ice cube(s) before replacing ice storage bin.
Water filter indicator light is red• Water filter needs to be replaced.• If filter is not available, replace with bypass filter.
• Filter indicator sensor needs to be reset
Ice forms in inlet tube to ice maker• Water pressure is too low• Water pressure must be between 35 to 100 pounds per square inch to function properly. A minimum pressure of 35 pounds per square inch is recommended for refrigerators with water filters.
• Saddle valve not open completely.• Open saddle valve completely.
• Freezer temperature is too high. Freezer temperature should be between 0° to 2° F (-18° to -17° C) to produce ice.
Ice maker is not producing ice• Ice maker switch is not ON• Confirm ice maker switch is ON.
• Household water supply is not reaching water valve.
• Copper tubing has kinks.• Turn off water supply and remove kinks. If kinks cannot be removed, replace tubing.
• Water pressure is too low.• Water pressure must be between 35 to 100 pounds per square inch to function properly. A minimum pressure of 35 pounds per square inch is recommended for refigerators with water filters.
• Check freezer temperature.Freezer temperature should be between 0° to 2° F (-18° to -17° C) to produce ice.
• Inner fountain door is blocked or frozen.• Do not attempt to free the fountain door by continuously pressing the dispenser button. Contact qualified service technician.
Temp Alarm Light is flashing• Exceeded normal operating temperatures.
All lights on dispenser and interior lights are off and appliance is still running• Control has been set to Sabbath Mode.
Door alarm set, no alarm sounded• Alarm mode has been disabled.• To activate audible alarms
Temperatures in display look too low• Temperature display has been set to Celsius rather than Fahrenheit.

Maytag MSD series refrigerator troubleshooting

MSD lineup consists of over two hundreds refrigerators. Many models are discontinued, but some of them are still available. In spite of all the differences, the MSD models have one feature in common: they are side-by-side refrigerators.

ProblemSolutions
Won’t run• the temperature control turned to “Off'
• the power eord not plugged in
• no power al the electrical outlet
• the circuit breaker tripped or the house fuse blown
• refrigerator is in automatic defrost
Runs too long/ too frequently• modem refrigerators are larger and run colder, which requires more running time to provide more stable temperatures
• prolonged door openings
• the base grille blocked
• too many door openings
• the door not sealing (due to a package or a container holding door open)
• warm room temperature
Noisy operation• the cabinet not level
• a weak floor
Odor in cabinet• odor producing foods should be covered or wrapped
• the interior needs cleaning
Warm air from cabinet bottom• normal air flow for condenser circulation
Cabinet vibrates• the cabinet not level
• a weak floor
Moisture on inside cabinet walls• can occur during hot, humid weather with frequent or prolonged door openings
• door not closed properly
Excessive moisture in or around crisper• food not wrapped properly
• hot. humid weather
No temperature readout in the Climate/one” Technology (select models) drawer display• the normal setting has been chosen
• the drawer has not been opened for four weeks
Cabinet light not working• the bulb burned out
• no power at the outlet
Refrigerator compartment too warm• the refrigerator control set too warm
• prolonged door openings
Refrigerator compartment too cold• the refrigerator control set too cold
Freezer compartment too warm• the freezer control set too warm
• prolonged door openings
Visible glow in the freezer vents• the appcarance of a red glow or reflection is normal during the defrost cycle
Freezer not freezing properly• products with high sugar content may not harden completely when frozen (ice cream, concentrated juice, etc.)
• adjust freezer control to a colder setting
Water Filter Change Reminder light (select models) comes on when the filter bypass is in place• This is normal. The control will count down 12 months or 416 gallons whether the filter or the filter bypass is in place. Reset the light
Ice cubes evaporate• cold air moving over the ice cubes causes shrinkage, especially with limited usage. This is normal
Automatic ice maker not operating• the stop arm in OFF (up) position
• the water supply turned off
• the water pressure too low
• the freezer too warm
Front cabinet surface warm to the touch• special design to limit condensation during periods of high humidity
Ice dispenser not operating• ice jam in the dispenser
• ice maker not operating
• lock switch on
Water dispenser not operating• water supply turned off
• water pressure too low
• lock switch on

Maytag W series refrigerator troubleshooting

The Maytag W series includes full-size refrigerators, some of them equipped with ice and cold water dispensers. Many models are side-by-side refrigerator-freezers, but there are also several French door refrigerators.

PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESWHAT TO DO
Won’t runPower cord not plugged in.Push plug into outlet.
No power to outletReplace fuse, reset circuit breaker.
Fresh food control set to “OFF” position.
Refrigerator is in automatic defrost.Wait 25 minutes for defrost cycle to end.
Room temperature less than 55° F.Relocate unit to proper climate
Runs too long, too frequentlyToday’s refrigerators start and stop more often to maintain even temperatures.
Normal at startup for new or recently installed units.Wait 24 hours for refrigerator to completely cool down
Prolonged or frequent door openings.This is normal. Minimize door openings.
Door not sealing.Check to see if something is preventing door from closing.
Front base grille blocked.Unblock to allow warm air to exit unit
Light not workingBulb burned outUnplug refrigerator and change bulb
No power to unitCheck to see if power cord is completely plugged in properly.
Visible glow in freezer ventsAppearance of a red glow or reflection is normal during the defrost cycle.
Warm air from cabinet bottomThis is normal air flow for condenser circulation.
Cabinet vibratesCabinet not level. Weak floor.Level cabinet
Odor in cabinetOdor producing foods not covered.Cover or wrap odorous foods tightly. Clean cabinet.
Noise, sounds and vibrationsNormal noise.
Cabinet not level.
Freezer, refrigerator too warmControl set too warm. Prolonged door openings.Adjust temperature control. Minimize door openings.
Room temperature less than 55° F.Unit will not run often enough to maintain proper temperatures.
Products with high sugar content may not harden completely when frozen.
Freezer, refrigerator too coldControl set too cold.Adjust temperature control.
Automatic icemaker not workingSensor arm in up position.Adjust sensor arm down to “ON” position.
Cabinet not level.Level unit
Water supply not connected or restricted.Connect water supply, or clear obstructions.
Freezer too warm.Adjust freezer temperature control
Ice cubes have odor/tasteOld cubes.Discard; ice cubes may absorb odors which affect taste.
Bad water quality.Contact local water treatment company.
Food transmitted odor/taste to ice.Wrap foods tightly.
Ice cubes sticking in trayResidue from minerals in the water.Wipe trays with vinegar-soaked cloth until clean.
Ice cubes evaporatingLimited use of ice.Dump old ice cubes.
Moisture on cabinet surface between doorsNot unusual during periods of high humidity.
Moisture on inside cabinet walls or in crisperHot humid weather.Normal.
Frequent or prolonged door openings.Minimize door openings.
Door not closed properly.Check to see if something is preventing door from closing.
Food not wrapped properly.Wrap or cover all foods tightly.
Foods dry outCrisper not tightly closed.Close crisper all the way.
Temperature controls set too cold.Adjust temperature controls
Packages not wrapped or sealed properly.Wrap or cover all foods tightly.
Excessive moisture in crisperHot, humid weather.Minimize door openings.
Humidity slide on crisper needs adjustment.Slide control to “Fruit” setting to allow more moisture to leave the drawer.
Too much moisture on fresh produce before storing.Do not wash items prior to storage. Wait to wash fresh items until right before use.
Foods not stored properly.Store leafy vegetables in a loosely closed plastic bag. Store items with an outer skin G.e. apples, oranges, pears, grapes, cucumbers, etc.) in a vented bag or unwrapped in the drawer. Store mushrooms and berries in original vented cartons or boxes, not in plastic bags.

Maytag chest freezer refrigerator troubleshooting

PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESWHAT TO DO
Appliance not workingPower outageMake sure appliance is plugged in.
Circuit breaker has trippedVerify that circuit breaker is not tripped.
Fuse has blownReplace fuse, but do not change fuse capacity.
Freezer not coolingTemperature controlChange control setting to 4 or above.
Poor gasket sealClean gasket as described in Hints and Care. Apply light coating of petroleum jelly to gasket.
Failed gasketHave gasket replaced
Food added recentlyWait 5 to 8 hours for temperature to stabilize after the addition of large quantities of unfrozen food.
Freezer runs frequentlyNormalNeeds to run to maintain an even temperature.
Door openClose door.
Temperature set too coldAdjust temperature control to maintain freezer temperature.
Poor gasket sealClean gasket as described in Hints and Care. Apply light coating of petroleum jelly to gasket.
Poor clearanceConfirm that freezer has proper clearance on each side and vents are unobstructed as specified in Installatbn Instmctions.
Light fails to illuminateBad bulbReplace bulb as described in Hints and Care section.
Switch not openingClean switch plunger to ensure proper operation.
Bad switchHave authorized servicer replace switch.
Door lock key will not stay in lockNormalLocks have “pop out key" function, preventing the key from being kept in the lock. This feature is to prevent child entrapment.
ClicksTemperature control clicks when starting or stopping compressor.
Gurgles and pops (like boiling water)Refrigerant flow through evaporator coil.
Hum or pulsing soundCompressor operation.
Water droplets on outside of freezerPoor gasket sealClean gasket as described in Hints and Care. Apply light coating of petroleum jelly to gasket.
Water pooling in floor by freezerPoor or missing drain plugVerify that drain plug is properly in place and sealed. Replace drain plug if seal is poor.