How to Clean Filter in Maytag Dishwasher
Keeping your Maytag dishwasher in top shape requires regular maintenance, and one of the most critical tasks is cleaning its filter. A clean filter ensures your dishes come out spotless, prevents clogs, and extends the life of your appliance. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning the filter in a Maytag dishwasher, offer additional maintenance tips, and address common questions to help you maintain peak performance. Whether you’re dealing with a triple filter system or a self-cleaning model, we’ve got you covered with insights from authoritative sources.
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Why Cleaning Your Maytag Dishwasher Filter Matters
The filter in your Maytag dishwasher traps food particles, grease, and debris to prevent them from clogging the drain or redepositing on your dishes. Over time, this buildup can reduce cleaning efficiency, cause odors, and even lead to costly repairs. According to Maytag’s official guide, “Cleaning the filters periodically helps keep the dishwasher working at peak performance” [(( Product Help | Maytag ))]. Depending on your usage, you may need to clean the filter weekly or yearly, but a good rule of thumb is every three to six months for most households.
Some Maytag models feature advanced systems like Dual Power Filtration, which combines microfiltration with a chopper to minimize maintenance. However, even these require occasional attention to ensure optimal operation.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning the Filter
Most Maytag dishwashers have a removable filter system, often a triple filter setup with an upper and lower assembly. Here’s how to clean it effectively, based on instructions from Maytag and other reliable sources.
Step 1: Locate the Filter
To start, remove the lower dish rack to expose the bottom of your dishwasher. The filter is typically found in one of two places: in a back corner of the tub or around the base of the bottom spray arm. As Maytag explains, “You can find the filter in a back corner of the tub bottom, or around the base of the bottom spray arm” [(( Maytag Official Site ))]. Some models may have a drain grate covering it, so lift that out first if present.
Step 2: Remove the Filter
For a triple filter system, you’ll see two parts: the upper filter assembly and the lower filter. Here’s how to take them out:
- Upper Filter Assembly: Turn it a quarter turn counterclockwise and lift it out. This part traps larger items and fine particles.
- Lower Filter: Gently lift it slightly, then pull it forward to remove. This prevents food from recirculating during the wash cycle.
Be careful not to damage the filter during removal, as a broken filter can impair dishwasher performance, warns VIA Appliance [(( VIA Appliance ))].
Step 3: Clean the Filter
Once removed, rinse the filter under warm running water to dislodge loose debris. For stubborn grime or calcium deposits from hard water, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) with mild dish soap. “Rinse filter under running water until most soils are removed. If you have hard-to-remove soils or calcium deposits from hard water, a soft brush may be required,” advises Maytag’s product help page.
Avoid harsh chemicals or stiff brushes, as these can damage the filter’s mesh and affect its function. If you’re dealing with grease, soak the filter in warm, soapy water for about five minutes to let the detergent break it down.
Step 4: Clean the Filter Housing
While the filter is out, take a moment to clean the surrounding area. Use a damp cloth or sponge with soapy water to wipe away any trapped food particles or sludge in the filter housing. This step, recommended by VIA Appliance, ensures debris doesn’t reaccumulate in your freshly cleaned filter.
Step 5: Reinstall the Filter
Reinstalling the filter correctly is crucial to avoid damaging your dishwasher. Follow these steps:
- Place the lower filter back under the locating tabs at the bottom of the tub, aligning the round opening with the tub’s circular hole.
- Insert the upper filter into the lower filter’s opening. Turn it clockwise until it drops into place and locks. “If your filter still turns freely, it’s not seated properly, so keep turning it clockwise until it locks into place,” Maytag instructs.
- The arrows on the upper and lower filters don’t need to align perfectly—just ensure it won’t turn further clockwise.
Double-check that both parts are secure before running the dishwasher, as a loose filter can cause issues.
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Additional Maintenance Tips for Your Maytag Dishwasher
Cleaning the filter is just one part of maintaining your dishwasher. Here are some expert-backed tips to keep it running smoothly:
Run a Vinegar Cycle
For a deeper clean, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the upper rack and run a hot water cycle. “Vinegar and baking soda are excellent natural cleaners for deep cleaning your dishwasher,” notes Sears Home Services [(( Sears Home Services ))]. This removes built-up residue and odors.
Check the Spray Arms
Over time, the spray arms can clog with food or mineral deposits. Remove them and soak in a vinegar-water solution (equal parts) for 30 minutes, then rinse and reinstall. This ensures water flows freely during cycles.
Scrape, Don’t Rinse
Maytag advises against pre-rinsing dishes: “It is not necessary to wash or even rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.” Simply scrape off large food particles to reduce filter buildup.
Use a Dishwasher Cleaner
Products like Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner can tackle tough grime and odors. Run it monthly in an empty dishwasher to maintain freshness and efficiency.
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Special Considerations for Self-Cleaning Filters
Some newer Maytag models feature self-cleaning filters with a soft food disposer or chopper, marketed as “maintenance-free.” However, as a Reddit user pointed out, “It’s not super maintenance free since the dishwasher started collecting sludge after 5 years” [(( r/CleaningTips ))]. If you notice buildup or poor performance, inspect and clean the filter manually, even on these models. The chopper can also break down debris, but clogs may still occur if it’s damaged.
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How Often Should You Clean the Filter?
Frequency depends on usage and habits:
- Heavy Use (5+ loads/week): Clean every 1-2 months.
- Moderate Use (2-4 loads/week): Clean every 3-6 months.
- Light Use (1 load/week): Clean annually.
If you scrape dishes thoroughly, you might stretch it longer. Signs it’s time to clean include visible soil on the filter, gritty dishes, or reduced cleaning power.
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Common Problems and Solutions
- Dishwasher Smells Bad: Clean the filter and run a vinegar cycle to eliminate trapped food odors.
- Dishes Aren’t Clean: A clogged filter or spray arm could be the culprit—check both.
- Water in the Bottom: Ensure the filter and drain hose are clear of blockages.
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FAQ: Cleaning Your Maytag Dishwasher Filter
Q: Where is the filter located in a Maytag dishwasher?
A: It’s usually in a back corner of the tub bottom or around the base of the bottom spray arm, accessible after removing the lower rack.
Q: How do I know if my filter needs cleaning?
A: Look for soil on the filter, food residue on dishes, or a drop in cleaning performance.
Q: Can I run my dishwasher without the filter?
A: No, Maytag warns against it to avoid damage—always ensure the filter is locked in place.
Q: What if my filter is damaged?
A: Replace it immediately. Check Maytag’s replacement parts site for the right model.
Q: How do I clean a self-cleaning filter?
A: While designed to need less maintenance, rinse it manually if you see buildup or sludge.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean the filter?
A: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can damage the filter. Stick to warm water, soap, and a soft brush.
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By following this guide, you’ll keep your Maytag dishwasher’s filter—and your dishes—sparkling clean. Regular care not only boosts performance but also prevents unexpected breakdowns, saving you time and money in the long run. Happy dishwashing!