# How to Fix Maytag Error F33 (Pump Connection)
The F33 error code is one of the most common critical failures in modern Maytag washers, indicating that the machine cannot properly drain water. If you see this code, the washing cycle will usually pause or stop immediately.
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## What Does Error F33 Mean?
The Maytag F33 error code signals a **Drain Pump Connection or Communication issue.**
In simple terms, the Central Control Unit (CCU) attempted to send voltage to the drain pump to activate it, but it did not receive the expected electrical feedback. This usually means one of three things:
1. **The Pump is Blocked:** Debris (coins, socks, lint) has jammed the impeller, preventing it from spinning.
2. **The Wiring Failed:** The electrical harness connecting the pump to the CCU is loose, damaged, or chewed (by rodents).
3. **The Pump is Dead (Likely Culprit):** The motor windings in the drain pump have failed completely (open circuit), and the entire unit needs replacement.
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## Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
**SAFETY WARNING:** Always unplug your Maytag washing machine from the power outlet before beginning any inspection or repair. Failure to do so could result in serious electrical shock.
### Step 1: Drain Water and Check for Obstructions
Since the machine cannot drain, you must manually remove the water before accessing the pump.
1. **Access the Pump Filter:** Locate the drain pump access panel, usually a small rectangular door at the bottom front of the washer.
2. **Manually Drain:** Place a shallow pan or towel down. Open the small drain hose (often coiled next to the filter cap) and allow the water to empty slowly.
3. **Remove Filter and Check Impeller:** Twist the main drain filter cap counter-clockwise to remove it. Inspect the filter and the pump opening (the impeller blade cavity) for obstructions like coins, lint balls, or small articles of clothing.
4. **Test Spin:** Once clear, shine a flashlight into the pump opening and try to manually spin the impeller blade with your finger or a slim tool. It should spin freely.
5. **Reassembly Test:** Replace the filter and close the access door. Plug the washer back in and attempt a drain cycle. If the F33 returns, proceed to Step 2.
### Step 2: Inspect the Wiring Harness
If the F33 is a “Connection” error, the wiring is the next most likely culprit after a simple clog.
1. **Locate the Pump:** Depending on your model, you may need to tilt the machine back or remove the front lower access panel (or the entire front panel) to get a clear view of the drain pump, which sits near the bottom.
2. **Examine the Connector:** Find the wiring harness that plugs directly into the drain pump motor.
* Ensure the connection is firmly seated and has not vibrated loose.
* Look closely at the wires themselves (where they enter the plastic connector). Check for any signs of pinching, melting, corrosion, or insulation damage.
3. **If Damaged:** If the wire or connector looks damaged, you may be able to splice a new wire connection or replace the harness (though pump replacement is often simpler if damage is severe).
4. **If Intact:** If the wiring looks clean and connected, the pump unit itself is likely faulty. Proceed to Step 3.
### Step 3: Test the Drain Pump (Advanced)
This step requires a multimeter to confirm the pump is electrically dead.
1. **Disconnect the Pump:** Unplug the wiring harness from the drain pump terminals.
2. **Set Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the **Ohms (Ω)** setting (Resistance).
3. **Test Continuity:** Touch the multimeter probes to the two metal terminals on the pump housing.
* **Good Pump Reading:** A working Maytag drain pump typically reads between **10 and 20 Ohms** of resistance.
* **Bad Pump Reading (Open Circuit):** If the pump has failed, the meter will display **”O.L.” (Over Limit)** or **”1″** (Infinite Resistance). This confirms the internal windings are broken, and the pump must be replaced.
### Step 4: Replace the Drain Pump
If you confirmed infinite resistance in Step 3, the drain pump needs to be replaced.
1. **Remove Old Pump:** Disconnect the two large rubber hoses attached to the pump (inlet and outlet). Use pliers to release the retaining clips or spring clamps securing the hoses. Be prepared for residual water leakage.
2. **Release Mounts:** The pump is usually held in place by 2-4 bolts or plastic tabs. Remove the mounting hardware or unclip the pump from its housing bracket.
3. **Install New Pump:** Fit the new pump into the bracket, secure the mounting hardware, and reconnect the inlet and outlet hoses firmly using their clamps.
4. **Reconnect Electrical:** Plug the wiring harness back into the new pump.
5. **Test Run:** Reassemble the washer access panel, plug the machine back into the wall, and run a short diagnostic cycle or a drain/spin cycle to confirm the F33 error is gone.
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Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Maytag+Drain+Pump&tag=trivian-20