Are you a proud owner of a Maytag washer, one of the finest brands in the United States? While renowned for reliability, you may spot a flashing F7E1 on your Maytag washer.
This message tries to get your attention to a stalled wash cycle .
Our detailed guide will help you diagnose and conquer the F7E1 Maytag washer.
This guide applies to various Maytag washer models, including:
- Maytag Centennial Top Load Washer MVW62HC
- Maytag Centennial Top Load Washer MVW7
- Maytag Centennial Top Load Washer MVWB765GC
- Maytag Centennial® EcoConserve MVWC400XW4
- Maytag Bravos Washing Machine MHW5500AW
- Maytag Bravos Washing Machine MHW6600BC
- Maytag Bravos X Washing Machine MVWX700XW1
- Maytag Neptune Series MAH3500AWW
- Maytag Neptune Series MAH5500AWW
- Maytag Performa Series MMV3600AWW
- Maytag Performa Series MMV4600AWW
- Maytag Quiet Series MMV2500AWW
- Maytag Quiet Series MMV2600AWW
What Does F7E1 Mean on a Maytag Washer?
- Meaning: This code expresses a motor speed sensor error. This means that the motor can’t reach the right speed for the desired cycle. This occurs when the washer’s control system isn’t receiving the expected signals from the sensor. This sensor monitors the motor’s rotation speed during the wash cycle.
- Safety Feature: Similar to many other Maytag error codes, this one acts as a safety measure. When this code appears on your appliance’s screen, the cycle stops. This procedure prevents potential damage to the motor or other components if it’s unable to maintain proper spin speed.
- Impact on Use: With a blinking F7E1, your Maytag washer halts its operation. So, you will end up with soggy and perhaps unclean clothes.
- Warning Signs: Beyond the flashing error code, you may hear unusual noise from the washer. Also, you may notice the drum struggling to spin or an abrupt stop in the cycle.
- Importance of Addressing: Besides affecting your Maytag washer’s functionality, ignoring this code may lead to further complications in the motor.
Why Does Your Maytag Washer Show F7E1 Error?
The motor of your Maytag washer fails to reach the correct speed due to different reasons. Let’s explore the most common reasons behind a blinking F7E1 Maytag washer:
1. Overloaded Washer
Exceeding the recommended load capacity puts more strain on the drum, motor, and several other internal parts. Straining the motor prevents it from achieving the correct speed during different cycle selections.
Also, the incorrect cycle selection for your laundry load
Referring to the manufacturer guidelines will give you a clue about specific weight limits for each chosen cycle.
2. Existing Shipping Bolts
This minor oversight can have serious consequences. The manufacturer installs these bolts at the washer’s back to prevent its tub from moving during transportation. If you leave them in position, they can interfere with proper motor function. Eventually, this may lead to agitation issues and trigger the F7E1 code.
If you encounter this code within the first days of your appliance purchase, this may point to forgotten bolts.
3. Faulty Motor Speed Sensor
This electrical component monitors the motor’s spinning speed. If this sensor malfunctions, it will send incorrect signals to your Maytag washer’s control board. The sensor malfunctions in most cases due to a defective wiring connection connecting to the control board.
4. Drive System Issues
Complex issues within the drive system may cause the F7E1 Maytag washer error code. This system transfers power from the motor to the washtub. When this system encounters problems, it hinders the motor’s ability to reach the right speed.
A problematic drive belt or a faulty clutch actuator contributes to the motor’s speed failure. The belt connects the motor’s pulley to the wash tub’s pulley. A faulty belt causes slippage and prevents the motor’s full power from reaching the washtub.
The actuator, on the other hand, engages the belt upon receiving a signal from the control board. A faulty actuator won’t engage the belt and disrupts the smooth power transfer to the tub.
Remember: You can benefit from the advanced features and modes in your Maytag washer in diagnosing the F7E1 problem. Consider running a diagnostic mode (if available on your model) to overcome the initial confusion.
How To Reset Maytag Washer F7E1 Error
While appearing as a straightforward step, it might resolve the Maytag washer F7E1 error. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the pause or cancel button twice to halt any cycle. Then press the power button and unplug the appliance. This will turn off the washer completely.
- Allow the washer to sit for a minute or two. This gives any temporary glitches in the system a chance to reset.
- Plug the washer back in to turn the power back on. Select your desired wash cycle and restart the washer to test the success of this process.
How To Fix Maytag Washer F7E1 Error
In many cases, fixing the Maytag washer F7E1 error doesn’t require a complex troubleshooting process. If the code isn’t associated with internal components, you can easily DIY fix it. Here’s how you can do it:
1. How To Fix Overloaded Washer
The most effective thing to do in this case is to reduce the laundry load. You can check the manual for specific instructions on the weight limits depending on the chosen cycle. Also, you can perform the hand test to ensure a lighter load. Insert your hand after loading the laundry and see if you can comfortably move your hand around the clothes.
2. How To Fix Existing Shipping Bolts
Take a look at the back of your washer for shipping bolts. Search for large bolts located near the bottom corners. If they’re still in place, use a socket wrench to remove them. You can do this step without any professional assistance.
3. How To Fix Faulty Motor Speed Sensor
Diagnosing a faulty motor speed sensor can be a bit tricky for some DIYers. It involves some electrical knowledge and parts disassembly. So, if you are not familiar with this type of work, it’s better to seek professional help. However, if you have the required skills and trained hands, here’s what to do:
- Unplug your Maytag washer for safety.
- Detach the back panel to access the motor and sensor area.
- Look for a small, rectangular device connected to the motor with wiring leading to the control board.
- Check the wiring connection for fraying, damage, or disconnection signs.
- You can use your multimeter to test the sensor for continuity.
- Visible damage and failing the test indicate the need for a replacement motor speed sensor.
- To avoid mistakes and returns, you should get the correct replacement part number for your Maytag washer model. Refer to the manuals to collect the correct information. You can look for the desired part at a Maytag-authorized online merchant or home improvement store.
4. How To Fix Drive System Issues
Working on the components of a Maytag washer drive system is complex. So, if you are uncertain of your troubleshooting abilities, it’s better to contact a professional repair technician. If you have previous experience with these delicate and complex parts, grab your screwdriver and do this:
- Unplug your Maytag washer to avoid electrical shocks.
- Similar to what you did to access the motor speed sensor, you should remove the back or rear panel depending on your exact model.
- To identify the drive belt, Look for a thick, black rubber belt connecting the motor pulley to the drum pulley. Being wrapped around the pulleys helps in the identification too.
- To identify the actuator, look for a small electric motor with a lever or arm attached
- You don’t need much effort to identify a faulty belt. Look for slippage or damage signs.
- Try to manually move the actuator to determine whether it engages smoothly with the belt. If it fails to do this, you should get a new actuator.
Conclusion
By delving into our detailed guide, you’ve gained valuable insights into the F7E1 error code on your Maytag washer. Whether it’s an overloaded washer, forgotten shipping bolts, a faulty motor speed sensor, or drive system issues, you now have a better understanding of the potential causes and fixes.
Remember, diagnostics modes in your Maytag washer can be a powerful tool to determine the root cause of the problem without wasting much time or effort.
Furthermore, if you’re facing an appliance question related to this error code, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on a preferred list of service providers. These repair professionals possess the expertise and experience to diagnose and resolve the F7E1 code and other error issues efficiently.
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