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The easy fix for dirty dishes: step-by-step instructions on finding your maytag dishwasher filter

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • If your Maytag dishwasher has been leaving your dishes with a lingering film or unpleasant odor, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning.
  • You’ll find the filter in the center of the tub, usually covered by a cylindrical or rectangular cap.
  • Clean the dishwasher filter regularly, about once a month or more frequently if you have a lot of food particles in your dishes.

If your Maytag dishwasher has been leaving your dishes with a lingering film or unpleasant odor, it’s time to give it a thorough cleaning. One crucial step in this process is locating the dishwasher filter. But where on earth is it hiding?

A Comprehensive Guide to Dishwasher Filter Discovery

1. Check the Bottom of the Dishwasher

Most Maytag dishwashers have their filters located at the bottom of the appliance. To access it, open the dishwasher door and remove the lower rack. You’ll find the filter in the center of the tub, usually covered by a cylindrical or rectangular cap.

2. Inspect the Sides of the Tub

In some models, the filter may be located on the side of the dishwasher tub. Look for a small, round or square opening, typically covered by a cap.

3. Consult Your Maytag Dishwasher Manual

If you’re still struggling to find the filter, refer to your Maytag dishwasher manual. It will provide specific instructions on the location of the filter for your particular model.

Removing the Dishwasher Filter

Once you’ve located the filter, it’s time to remove it for cleaning. Here’s how:

1. Twist and Lift

For cylindrical filters, simply twist the cap counterclockwise and lift it off. For rectangular filters, locate the tabs on the sides of the cap and press them inward while pulling the cap straight up.

2. Unclog the Filter

Remove any visible food particles or debris from the filter. You can use a spoon or a soft brush to gently dislodge any stuck-on bits.

3. Rinse the Filter

Hold the filter under running water and rinse it thoroughly. Use a mild detergent if necessary to remove any stubborn grease or grime.

Reinstalling the Dishwasher Filter

Once the filter is clean, it’s time to put it back in place:

1. Align the Filter

Place the filter back in its designated compartment, ensuring it’s properly aligned.

2. Secure the Cap

For cylindrical filters, twist the cap clockwise until it’s snug. For rectangular filters, press the cap down firmly until it clicks into place.

Additional Tips for Dishwasher Maintenance

  • Clean the dishwasher filter regularly, about once a month or more frequently if you have a lot of food particles in your dishes.
  • Regularly check the water jets and spray arms for any clogs or blockages.
  • Use a dishwasher cleaner to remove limescale and other mineral deposits.
  • Run the dishwasher with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to deodorize it.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Why is my Maytag dishwasher filter clogged?
A: Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the filter over time.

Q: How often should I clean my Maytag dishwasher filter?
A: Aim to clean it once a month or more frequently if needed.

Q: Can I use a different type of filter in my Maytag dishwasher?
A: It’s not recommended to use a different filter than the one specified for your Maytag dishwasher model.

Q: What happens if I don’t clean my Maytag dishwasher filter?
A: A clogged filter can reduce the efficiency of your dishwasher, leading to poor dishwashing results and potential damage to the appliance.

Q: Where can I find a replacement Maytag dishwasher filter?
A: You can purchase a replacement filter from the Maytag website, local appliance stores, or online retailers.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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