The E2 error on your Maytag Washer means the control board has detected a draining problem, usually shown together as F9 E2, signalling that water is not leaving the tub within the time the machine expects. Checking the drain hose and pump filter first solves most cases.

Error code E2
Meaning Drain system fault — water is not draining from the tub within the allowed time
Severity Medium — the wash cycle will not complete until it’s fixed
Time to fix 15–45 minutes
Tools needed Towels, a shallow pan, pliers, flashlight (screwdriver may be needed for some models)

What the F9 E2 error means

On Maytag washers, F9 codes relate to the drain system, and the E2 sub-code narrows this down to the machine detecting that water levels haven’t dropped as expected during a drain phase. The control board monitors the pressure switch and drain pump timing, and if it doesn’t see the tub empty in the expected window, it stops the cycle and displays the code as a safety measure to prevent overflow or motor damage.

This is almost always a mechanical blockage or a failing drain component rather than an electronic fault, so it’s usually fixable without calling an engineer.

Common causes

  • Clogged drain pump filter full of lint, coins, or debris
  • Kinked, crushed, or blocked drain hose
  • Drain hose installed too high or with an improper loop, restricting flow
  • Failing or jammed drain pump motor
  • Blocked household standpipe or utility sink drain
  • Faulty pressure (water level) switch giving an incorrect reading

How to fix the F9 E2 error

  1. Power down and unplug the washer — Cut power at the wall for safety before touching any drain components.
  2. Check the drain hose — Pull the washer out and look for kinks, tight bends, or crushing points along the hose, straightening it out fully.
  3. Clean the drain pump filter — Locate the small access panel (usually bottom front), place a pan underneath, and remove any lint, coins, or debris trapped inside.
  4. Inspect the standpipe or sink drain — Make sure the point the hose empties into isn’t blocked or backed up with debris.
  5. Test the drain pump — Listen for a humming noise during the drain cycle; if the pump hums but doesn’t drain, or is silent, it may need replacing.
  6. Restart and run a test cycle — Plug the washer back in, select a short cycle, and watch to confirm water drains fully without the code returning.

If the error persists after clearing the filter and hose, the drain pump or pressure switch is the most likely culprit and may need professional replacement. It’s also worth comparing this to related drain issues covered in the Maytag Washer F2 Error Code: Causes and Fixes guide, since some symptoms overlap. If you’ve already ruled out drainage and the machine still won’t proceed past a cycle, the Maytag Washer F1 Error Code: Causes and Fixes page covers control board resets that can help. Persistent water level confusion is also discussed in the Maytag Washer F3 Error Code: Causes and Fixes article, and motor-related drain failures are detailed further in the Maytag Washer F5 Error Code: Causes and Fixes guide.

FAQ

Can I fix the F9 E2 error myself?
Yes, in most cases. Clearing the drain filter and straightening the hose resolves the majority of these faults without needing a technician.

Is it safe to keep using the washer with this error showing?
It’s best to fix it first. Running more cycles with a blocked drain can strain the pump motor and cause further damage.

Why does water stay in the tub when this error appears?
The washer stops mid-cycle as a safety measure once it detects draining isn’t happening properly, so leftover water is expected until the blockage is cleared.