Maytag washer — Error Code F02

What it means

The F02 error code on a Maytag washer indicates a 'Long Drain' condition. The main control board energizes the drain pump to remove water from the tub, but the water level pressure switch (or pressure transducer) fails to register an empty tub within the factory-programmed time limit—typically 8 to 10 minutes. When this timeout occurs, the control board halts the cycle, unlocks the door (if the water level is deemed safe), and flashes the F02 code on the display. This is a critical protective measure designed to prevent the drain pump motor from overheating and to stop potential flooding in your laundry room. The fault is almost always mechanical, stemming from a physical restriction in the drain path, a jammed or failed drain pump, or excessive suds (known as a suds lock) preventing the pump from moving water efficiently. Rarely, a faulty pressure switch, a clogged air dome hose, or a compromised wiring harness between the pump and the Central Control Unit (CCU) can trigger a false F02 code by failing to send the 'empty' signal.

Likely Causes

1. 1
   Clogged Drain Pump Filter (Coin Trap)

   Debris like coins, lint, screws, or bobby pins bypass the drum and block the pump impeller, preventing water from flowing out.
2. 2
   Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose

   A physical restriction in the external corrugated drain hose or a blockage in the home's standpipe restricts the flow rate.
3. 3
   Failed Drain Pump Motor

   The pump motor windings have failed electrically, or the plastic impeller has sheared off the shaft, requiring a full pump assembly replacement.
4. 4
   Suds Lock

   Using too much detergent or non-HE detergent creates a thick foam that the drain pump cannot push through the lines, causing a timeout.
5. 5
   Faulty Pressure Switch or Air Tube

   The pressure hose connecting the tub to the pressure switch is clogged with detergent gunk, preventing the switch from resetting to the 'empty' state.

How to clear / reset

To temporarily clear the F02 error code, press the Power/Cancel button twice. This will stop the alarm and clear the display. Next, unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the Central Control Unit (CCU). If the tub is still full of water, you must manually drain it before restarting a cycle. On front-load models, access the lower front panel, place a shallow pan underneath, and slowly unscrew the drain pump filter cap to let the water out. Once drained and the filter is cleaned, run a 'Rinse & Spin' cycle to test. If the underlying blockage or pump failure isn't resolved, the F02 code will return during the next drain phase.

Common replacement parts

FAQs