Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Unlock the secrets of maytag washing machine winterization: prevent damage, save money

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

  • As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your Maytag washing machine from the harsh elements.
  • If possible, store the washing machine in a warm, dry place during the winter months.
  • If you can’t move the machine, cover it with a blanket or tarp to protect it from the elements.

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your Maytag washing machine from the harsh elements. Winterizing your washing machine will prevent freezing, damage, and costly repairs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to ensure your Maytag washing machine is ready for the cold season.

Step 1: Unplug and Disconnect the Machine

Before starting any work, unplug the washing machine from the power outlet and turn off the water supply. Disconnect both the hot and cold water hoses from the machine.

Step 2: Drain the Water

Drain the water from the washing machine by running a hot water cycle without any detergent. This will remove most of the water from the tub, hose, and pump.

Step 3: Clean the Drain Pump Filter

Locate and remove the drain pump filter at the bottom of the washing machine. Clean any debris or hair from the filter and rinse it thoroughly with warm water.

Step 4: Add Antifreeze

Pour a gallon of non-toxic antifreeze into the washing machine tub. Run the machine on a short cycle to circulate the antifreeze through the system.

Step 5: Lubricate the Door Seal

Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or silicone lubricant to the door seal to prevent it from freezing and cracking.

Step 6: Store the Washing Machine Properly

If possible, store the washing machine in a warm, dry place during the winter months. If you can’t move the machine, cover it with a blanket or tarp to protect it from the elements.

Step 7: Protect Outdoor Water Lines

If your washing machine is located outdoors, disconnect and drain the water hoses from the machine. Wrap the hoses with insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing.

Additional Tips for Maytag Washing Machines with Smart Features

If your Maytag washing machine has smart features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity or voice control, it’s important to take additional steps to protect these components during winterization.

  • Unpair the washing machine from any smart home devices.
  • Disable any notifications or alerts on the washing machine’s app.
  • Remove the batteries from any remote controls or sensors.

Final Note: Ensuring a Trouble-Free Winter

By following these steps, you can effectively winterize your Maytag washing machine and ensure it’s ready for the cold season. Proper winterization will extend the lifespan of your appliance, prevent costly repairs, and give you peace of mind during the winter months.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use automotive antifreeze to winterize my washing machine?
A: No, automotive antifreeze is toxic and should not be used in a washing machine. Use only non-toxic antifreeze specifically designed for appliances.

Q: How often should I winterize my washing machine?
A: It’s recommended to winterize your washing machine annually before the onset of freezing temperatures.

Q: What happens if I don’t winterize my washing machine?
A: If you don’t winterize your washing machine, it can freeze and cause damage to the tub, hoses, and pump. This can lead to costly repairs or even the need for a new washing machine.

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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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