Have you ever put a load of laundry in your Maytag Centennial washer, only to find it stuck on the “sensing” cycle? This can be a frustrating problem that wastes time and energy. In this article, we will walk you through the possible causes and troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
Understanding the “Sensing” Cycle
Contents
- 1 Understanding the “Sensing” Cycle
- 2 Possible Causes
- 3 Troubleshooting Steps
- 4 Error codes
- 5 Preventative Maintenance Tips
- 6 FAQs
- 6.1 Why is my washer stuck on the sensing cycle?
- 6.2 Why is my washer leaking water?
- 6.3 How can I prevent mold and mildew buildup in my washer?
- 6.4 How often should I clean the lint filter in my washer?
- 6.5 Why is my washer making loud noises during the spin cycle?
- 6.6 Can I use regular bleach in my washer?
- 6.7 How can I prevent overloading my washer?
- 7 When to Call a Professional
- 8 Conclusion
Before we dive into the troubleshooting steps, it’s important to understand what the “sensing” cycle is and how it works in the Maytag Centennial washer. This cycle is a brief period where the washer measures the weight of the load, determines the appropriate water level, and checks for any unbalanced loads. This is necessary to ensure the rest of the washing process runs smoothly.
| Row | Process | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lid Locking | 6 seconds | Lock the lid to prevent accidents |
| 2 | Water Level Measurement | 15 seconds | Determine the appropriate water level for the load |
| 3 | Water Filling | 1-2 minutes | Fill the washer with water to the appropriate level |
| 4 | Agitation | 1-2 minutes | Move the clothes around in the water to evenly distribute soap and water |
| 5 | Spin Test | 15 seconds | Test if the load is balanced |
| 6 | Drain Test | 15 seconds | Check for any obstructions in the drain |
| 7 | Water Level Adjustment | 15 seconds | Adjust the water level if necessary |
| 8 | Additional Agitation | 1-2 minutes | Continue to move clothes around in the water |
| 9 | Spin Cycle | 3-5 minutes | Spin the clothes to remove excess water |
| 10 | Drain and Rinse Cycle | 2-3 minutes | Drain and rinse the clothes to remove soap and debris |
This table outlines the various processes that occur during the “sensing” cycle, along with their duration and purpose. By understanding how this cycle works, you can troubleshoot issues and ensure that your Maytag Centennial washer is operating efficiently.
Possible Causes
There are several reasons why the Maytag Centennial washer may get stuck on the “sensing” cycle. The most common cause is a faulty lid switch or sensor. The lid switch ensures that the washer does not operate when the lid is open, and the sensor detects when the lid is closed. If either of these components is malfunctioning, the washer will not move beyond the “sensing” cycle.
| Row | Possible Cause | Symptoms | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Faulty lid switch | Washer won't start | Test the lid switch for continuity using a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
| 2 | Broken lid hinge | Lid won't close properly | Replace the lid hinge if broken or loose. |
| 3 | Bad lid sensor | Washer won't start or gets stuck on "sensing" cycle | Test the sensor with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 4 | Clogged drain hose | Water won't drain from washer | Check for obstructions in the drain hose, and clear them if necessary. |
| 5 | Clogged drain pump | Water won't drain from washer | Check for obstructions in the drain pump, and clear them if necessary. |
| 6 | Faulty control board | Washer won't start or gets stuck on "sensing" cycle | Test the control board with a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
| 7 | Overloaded washer | Washer won't start or gets stuck on "sensing" cycle | Remove some clothes to reduce the load. |
| 8 | Wrong detergent | Clothes aren't getting clean | Use the correct type and amount of detergent for the load. |
| 9 | Incorrect water level | Clothes aren't getting clean | Adjust the water level to the appropriate level for the load. |
| 10 | Worn drive belt | Drum won't spin | Check the drive belt for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 11 | Damaged motor coupler | Drum won't spin | Test the motor coupler with a multimeter, and replace if damaged. |
| 12 | Faulty motor | Drum won't spin | Test the motor with a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
| 13 | Broken agitator | Clothes aren't getting clean | Check the agitator for damage, and replace if necessary. |
| 14 | Damaged tub bearing | Washer is loud during spin cycle | Check the tub bearing for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 15 | Worn drum rollers | Washer is loud during spin cycle | Check the drum rollers for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 16 | Loose or damaged pulley | Drum won't spin | Check the pulley for looseness or damage, and replace if necessary. |
| 17 | Bad timer | Washer won't start or gets stuck on "sensing" cycle | Test the timer with a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
| 18 | Failed water inlet valve | Washer won't fill with water | Test the water inlet valve with a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
| 19 | Blocked water inlet valve screens | Washer won't fill with water | Check the water inlet valve screens for blockages, and clear them if necessary. |
| 20 | Faulty water level pressure switch | Washer won't fill with water | Test the pressure switch with a multimeter, and replace if necessary. |
Another possible cause is a clogged drain hose or pump. If the drain hose or pump is blocked, the washer may not be able to drain properly, causing it to get stuck on the “sensing” cycle. Lastly, a malfunctioning control board can also cause the issue. If the control board is not communicating properly with the washer’s other components, it can prevent the machine from moving to the next cycle.
Troubleshooting Steps
If your Maytag Centennial washer is stuck on the “sensing” cycle, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue. First, check that the washer is receiving power and that the outlet is not faulty. If the power supply is fine, move on to check the drain hose, dispenser, and detergent levels.
| Row | Issue | Troubleshooting Step | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washer won't start | Check power supply | Ensure the washer is properly plugged in and the outlet is working. |
| 2 | Washer won't start | Check lid switch | Test the lid switch for continuity using a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 3 | Washer won't start | Check lid hinge | Replace the lid hinge if broken or loose. |
| 4 | Washer won't start | Check lid sensor | Test the sensor with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 5 | Washer won't start | Check control board | Test the control board with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 6 | Washer won't start | Check timer | Test the timer with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 7 | Clothes aren't getting clean | Use correct detergent | Use the appropriate type and amount of detergent for the load. |
| 8 | Clothes aren't getting clean | Adjust water level | Ensure the water level is appropriate for the load size. |
| 9 | Clothes aren't getting clean | Use hotter water | Use a hotter water temperature for heavier or more soiled loads. |
| 10 | Washer won't spin | Check drive belt | Check the drive belt for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 11 | Washer won't spin | Check motor coupler | Test the motor coupler with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 12 | Washer won't spin | Check motor | Test the motor with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 13 | Washer won't spin | Check agitator | Check the agitator for damage, and replace if necessary. |
| 14 | Washer is loud during spin cycle | Check tub bearing | Check the tub bearing for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 15 | Washer is loud during spin cycle | Check drum rollers | Check the drum rollers for wear and tear, and replace if necessary. |
| 16 | Washer is loud during spin cycle | Check pulley | Check the pulley for looseness or damage, and replace if necessary. |
| 17 | Washer won't fill with water | Check water inlet valve | Test the water inlet valve with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 18 | Washer won't fill with water | Check water inlet valve screens | Check the screens for blockages, and clear them if necessary. |
| 19 | Washer won't fill with water | Check water level pressure switch | Test the pressure switch with a multimeter, and replace if faulty. |
| 20 | Washer is leaking water | Check hoses and connections | Check all hoses and connections for leaks, and tighten or replace as necessary. |
If those are all in good condition, you can proceed to test the lid switch or sensor, drain pump, and control board. For detailed steps on how to test and replace these components, consult your washer’s manual or a professional repair service.
Troubleshooting steps for a Maytag Centennial washer that is stuck on the “sensing” cycle:
- Check for any visible issues: First, check the washer for any visible signs of damage or issues. Make sure the lid is closed properly, the load is not unbalanced, and the washer is not tilted.
- Cancel the cycle: If the washer is still stuck on the “sensing” cycle, try canceling the cycle by pressing the “Cancel” button. This may reset the cycle and allow the washer to start a new cycle.
- Check the power supply: Make sure the washer is properly plugged in and the outlet is working. Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure the washer has power.
- Check the lid switch: If the lid switch is faulty, the washer may not start. Test the lid switch for continuity using a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the lid hinge: A broken or loose lid hinge can prevent the lid from closing properly and cause issues with the lid switch. Replace the lid hinge if necessary.
- Check the lid sensor: If the lid sensor is faulty, the washer may not start. Test the sensor with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the control board: If the control board is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the control board with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the timer: If the timer is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the timer with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the water supply: Make sure the water supply valves are fully open and the hoses are not kinked or clogged. Check the inlet screens for any blockages.
- Check the drain hose: Make sure the drain hose is properly installed and free of blockages.
- Check the water level pressure switch: If the water level pressure switch is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the pressure switch with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the motor: If the motor is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the motor with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the drive belt: If the drive belt is worn or broken, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Replace the drive belt if necessary.
- Check the motor coupler: If the motor coupler is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the motor coupler with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the agitator: If the agitator is damaged or worn, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Replace the agitator if necessary.
- Check the water inlet valve: If the water inlet valve is faulty, it may prevent the washer from starting or cause issues with the cycle. Test the water inlet valve with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.
- Check the wiring: Inspect the wiring between the control board and other components for any damage or loose connections, and replace or repair as necessary.
- Reset the control board: Try resetting the control board by unplugging the washer for a few minutes, then plugging it back in and restarting the cycle.
- Call a professional: If all else fails, call a professional technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
Error codes
| Row | Error Code | Description | Troubleshooting Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | F1 | Water supply error | Check the water supply valves and hoses, and ensure they are fully open and free of blockages. |
| 2 | F2 | Drain error | Check the drain hose for blockages and ensure it is properly installed. |
| 3 | F3 | Overfill error | Check the water level pressure switch for proper function, and ensure the water inlet valve is not stuck open. |
| 4 | F4 | Lid open error | Close the lid securely and ensure the lid switch is functioning properly. |
| 5 | F5 | Motor error | Check the drive belt, motor coupler, and motor for proper function and replace if necessary. |
| 6 | F6 | Drive motor tachometer error | Check the wiring between the control board and motor, and replace the motor if necessary. |
| 7 | F7 | Motor overheat error | Allow the motor to cool down, and reduce the load size if necessary. |
| 8 | F8 | Water temperature error | Check the water temperature sensor and ensure the water temperature is within the appropriate range. |
| 9 | F9 | Overflow error | Check the water level pressure switch and ensure the water inlet valve is not stuck open. |
| 10 | F10 | Communication error | Check the wiring between the control board and other components, and replace any damaged wiring. |
| 11 | F11 | Serial communication error | Check the wiring between the control board and other components, and replace any damaged wiring. |
| 12 | F12 | Dispenser error | Check the dispenser and wiring for proper function, and replace if necessary. |
| 13 | F13 | Dispenser circuit error | Check the wiring between the control board and dispenser, and replace any damaged wiring. |
| 14 | F14 | EEPROM error | Reset the control board and reprogram as necessary. |
| 15 | F15 | Motor control error | Check the drive belt, motor coupler, and motor for proper function and replace if necessary. |
| 16 | F16 | Door lock error | Check the door lock assembly for proper function, and replace if necessary. |
| 17 | F17 | Inlet valve error | Check the water inlet valve and wiring for proper function, and replace if necessary. |
| 18 | F18 | Communication error | Check the wiring between the control board and other components, and replace any damaged wiring. |
| 19 | F19 | Water inlet valve error | Check the water inlet valve and wiring for proper function, and replace if necessary. |
| 20 | F20 | Control board error | Reset the control board and reprogram as necessary, or replace if necessary. |
Preventative Maintenance Tips
To avoid the issue of the Maytag Centennial washer getting stuck on the “sensing” cycle, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the washer and checking the drain hose and pump for blockages. Additionally, it’s essential to use the correct detergent and water levels and avoid overloading the washer. Finally, check and tighten any loose electrical connections to prevent any future issues.
| Row | Preventative Maintenance Tip | Description | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the washer regularly | Wipe down the exterior and interior of the washer to prevent mold and mildew buildup. | Use a mild cleaning solution and avoid abrasive cleaners. |
| 2 | Check for leaks | Regularly inspect the hoses and connections for any signs of leaks. | Tighten connections or replace hoses if necessary. |
| 3 | Use the correct detergent | Use the appropriate type and amount of detergent for the load to prevent buildup and clogs. | Consult the detergent packaging or washer manual for guidance. |
| 4 | Use the correct water level | Adjust the water level according to the load size to prevent overloading or inadequate cleaning. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 5 | Use the appropriate water temperature | Use a hotter water temperature for heavier or more soiled loads. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 6 | Avoid overloading the washer | Overloading can cause strain on the washer's components and reduce cleaning effectiveness. | Follow the load size guidelines in the washer manual. |
| 7 | Check and tighten electrical connections | Regularly check for any loose or damaged electrical connections and tighten or replace them as needed. | Use caution when working with electrical components. |
| 8 | Use a washing machine cleaner | Use a washing machine cleaner once a month to remove buildup and improve washer performance. | Follow the cleaner's instructions and choose a product suitable for your washer model. |
| 9 | Clean the detergent dispenser | Regularly remove and clean the detergent dispenser to prevent clogs and buildup. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 10 | Use the correct cycle | Use the appropriate cycle for the load to improve cleaning efficiency and prevent strain on the washer's components. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 11 | Avoid slamming the lid | Avoid slamming the lid to prevent damage to the lid switch or sensor. | Gently close the lid to prevent damage. |
| 12 | Use the correct fabric softener | Use the appropriate type and amount of fabric softener to prevent buildup and clogs. | Consult the fabric softener packaging or washer manual for guidance. |
| 13 | Use the correct bleach | Use the appropriate type and amount of bleach to prevent damage to the washer's components. | Consult the bleach packaging or washer manual for guidance. |
| 14 | Keep the washer level | Ensure the washer is level to prevent strain on the components and improve cleaning effectiveness. | Use a level to check the washer's position. |
| 15 | Clean the lint filter | Regularly clean the lint filter to prevent buildup and improve washer performance. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 16 | Use the correct spin speed | Use the appropriate spin speed for the load to prevent strain on the washer's components. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 17 | Clean the drain pump | Regularly clean the drain pump to prevent clogs and buildup. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 18 | Use the correct load size | Use the appropriate load size for the washer to improve cleaning effectiveness and prevent strain on the components. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
| 19 | Check and maintain the drain hose | Check and maintain the drain hose for any signs of wear or damage, and replace if necessary. | Consult the washer manual for guidance. |
FAQs
Why is my washer stuck on the sensing cycle?
A Maytag Centennial washer may get stuck on the sensing cycle due to a faulty lid switch, broken lid hinge, bad lid sensor, or faulty control board, among other possible causes. Refer to the Possible Causes and Troubleshooting Steps tables in this article for more information on how to diagnose and fix the issue.
Why is my washer leaking water?
A washer may leak water due to issues such as loose or damaged hoses or connections, a damaged door seal, or a faulty water inlet valve, among other possible causes. Refer to the Possible Causes and Troubleshooting Steps tables in this article for more information on how to diagnose and fix the issue.
How can I prevent mold and mildew buildup in my washer?
To prevent mold and mildew buildup in your Maytag Centennial washer, wipe down the exterior and interior of the washer regularly, use a washing machine cleaner once a month, and leave the washer door open after use to allow for proper ventilation.
How often should I clean the lint filter in my washer?
It is recommended to clean the lint filter in a Maytag Centennial washer after every load to prevent buildup and improve washer performance.
Why is my washer making loud noises during the spin cycle?
A washer may make loud noises during the spin cycle due to issues such as a damaged tub bearing, worn drum rollers, or a loose or damaged pulley, among other possible causes. Refer to the Possible Causes and Troubleshooting Steps tables in this article for more information on how to diagnose and fix the issue.
Can I use regular bleach in my washer?
It is recommended to use only high efficiency (HE) bleach in a Maytag Centennial washer, as regular bleach may damage the washer's components.
How can I prevent overloading my washer?
To prevent overloading your Maytag Centennial washer, follow the load size guidelines in the washer manual, and avoid cramming too many clothes into the washer drum.
When to Call a Professional
If you have tried the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing the issue, it may be time to call in a professional repair service. They can provide expert advice and repair your washer quickly and safely.
Conclusion
Fixing a Maytag Centennial washer stuck on the “sensing” cycle can be a straightforward process, but it requires patience and attention to detail. By understanding the “sensing” cycle and the possible causes of the issue, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the problem. Remember to perform regular maintenance and call in a professional when needed. With these steps, you can ensure that your washer is running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
- Effective Guide to GE Deep Fill Washer Troubleshooting - October 16, 2023
- Uncover the Speed: How Fast Does a Washing Machine Spin? - October 15, 2023
- The Maytag Bravos XL Dryer Not Heating: Troubleshooting Guide - October 15, 2023
