# How to Fix Maytag Error drN (Drain Issue)
The Maytag error code **drN** is one of the most common issues reported by front-load and top-load washer owners. Fortunately, this error often indicates a simple clog, not a major machine malfunction.
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## Explanation: What Maytag Error drN Means
The **drN** code stands for “Drain Issue” or “Drain Not Complete.”
Your Maytag washing machine has an internal timer that dictates how quickly water must exit the tub during the spin/drain cycle. If the machine detects that the water level has not dropped sufficiently within the allotted time (usually 6 to 8 minutes), it assumes there is a blockage or a pump failure and stops the cycle to prevent flooding or motor burnout.
**The Likely Culprit is the Drain Pump or an upstream blockage.**
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## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Clearing the Drain System
Before attempting any repair, ensure the machine is safely powered off and drained.
### **SAFETY FIRST**
1. **Unplug the Machine:** Disconnect the washer from the electrical outlet immediately.
2. **Drain Excess Water:** If possible, try to manually drain the tub using the small hose near the pump filter (if your model has one) or by manually lowering the drain hose into a bucket.
### Phase 1: Check the Drain Hose (External Clogs)
The most simple fix is often a kinked or restricted drain hose.
1. **Inspect the Rear Hose:** Check the large corrugated drain hose located at the back of the washer. Ensure it is not kinked, twisted, or squashed against the wall.
2. **Verify Standpipe Height:** The drain hose must not be inserted too far down the standpipe (the vertical pipe leading to your home drainage system). It should only go in about 4 to 6 inches, and the hose opening should be positioned at least 39 inches high, but generally no higher than 96 inches.
3. **Check for Suction Lock:** If the hose is sealed too tightly in the standpipe, it can create a suction lock, preventing water from moving. Pull the hose out slightly.
### Phase 2: Clear the Drain Pump Filter (The Coin Trap)
This is the most common location for blockages. The filter, sometimes called the “coin trap,” catches small items that escape the drum.
1. **Locate the Filter:** On most Maytag washers (especially front-loaders), the filter is located behind a small access panel or kick plate at the bottom front of the machine. You may need a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the panel open.
2. **Prepare for Spillage:** Even if you drained the water manually, there will still be residual water trapped in the pump housing. Place old towels or a shallow pan underneath the filter area.
3. **Remove the Filter Cap:** Slowly twist the filter cap counter-clockwise. Water will start to trickle out. Stop twisting periodically to allow the water to drain into your pan/towels.
4. **Clear Debris:** Once the filter is completely removed, inspect it thoroughly for coins, socks, hair ties, lint buildup, or screws. Clean the filter completely under running water.
### Phase 3: Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller
After clearing the filter, the problem may be deeper inside the pump housing.
1. **Look into the Housing:** Shine a flashlight into the pump opening where the filter screws in.
2. **Test the Impeller:** Use your finger or a slim tool (like a toothbrush handle) to gently reach in and feel the gray/black plastic fins (the impeller).
3. **Check for Movement:** The impeller should spin freely. If it is stiff, locked, or chunky debris (like small shards of plastic or hard objects) is lodged near it, remove the obstruction.
### Phase 4: Test and Replace the Drain Pump
If you have confirmed that the drain hose and the pump filter are completely clear, and the **drN** error persists, the drain pump itself has likely failed electrically or mechanically.
* **Symptoms of Pump Failure:** The pump motor may hum but not spin, or it may be completely silent when it should be draining.
* **Replacement:** Replacing the drain pump is a repair most moderately skilled DIYers can handle. You will need to access the pump (usually by tipping the machine back or removing the front panel, depending on the model), disconnect the electrical harness, and remove the two hose clamps securing the inlet and outlet hoses.
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### Call to Action
If diagnosis confirms that the drain pump is the culprit, you will need a new unit.
Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Maytag+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20