How to clear Maytag washer error code?
On the Maytag MHW8100DC0 washer, we clear most error codes by correcting the cause first, then pressing POWER/CANCEL once to clear the code and restarting the cycle. For certain messages (like detergent level sensor errors), a brief power reset can also clear the display.
Quick steps to clear the code
- Fix the issue that triggered the code (door not closed, excess suds, load detected, etc.).
- Touch POWER/CANCEL once to clear the code.
- Reselect your cycle and touch START.
- If the code returns immediately, stop and check the specific condition again.
- For sensor-related messages, unplug the washer for 1 minute, then restore power.
Common codes and what clears them on MHW8100DC0
| Display message | What it usually means | What to do to clear it |
|---|---|---|
| Sud | Excess suds; washer runs a suds-reduction routine | Let it finish; use HE detergent and correct dosing; then press POWER/CANCEL |
| rL | Load detected during Clean Washer cycle | Remove items; press POWER/CANCEL; press and hold START to restart Clean Washer |
| dEt | Detergent cartridge not detected | Reseat cartridge and close drawer fully; press POWER/CANCEL |
| F## E## | System error code | Press POWER/CANCEL to clear; if it returns, service is typically needed |
| Int | Cycle interrupted while stopping/draining | Wait for drain/stop (can take 20 to 30 minutes); press POWER/CANCEL |
When a power reset helps
Use this when the display indicates a detergent level sensor error or the control seems “stuck”:
- Unplug the washer (or switch off the breaker) for 1 minute.
- Restore power.
- Select a cycle and press START.
Why it matters
Clearing the code without fixing the cause usually makes the code come right back. Addressing the root issue first helps protect the door lock, drain system, and control from repeat faults.
For model-specific button behavior and messages, follow the MHW8100DC0 owner's manual. You can also match the displayed code to Maytag front-load guidance in the Maytag maxima front load washer error codes reference.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag MHW8100DC0 washer, the most common customer-reported issues are “won’t drain/spin,” “won’t start/fill,” and excessive vibration. Many of these trace back to drainage restrictions, door-latch problems, oversudsing (non-HE detergent), or an unlevel installation.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Won’t drain or leaves water in the tub: clogged pump/hoses, debris in the pump, or a failing drain pump
- Won’t start or stops mid-cycle: door not fully latched, power supply issue, or water supply restriction
- Excess suds (“Sud” message): too much detergent or non-HE detergent; the washer may run a suds-reduction routine
- Vibration or “walking”: leveling feet not firmly on the floor, jam nuts not tight, load out of balance, or shipping bolts still installed
- Poor rinse/cleaning: water supply issues, too much HE detergent, hard water, or overloading
Quick checks we recommend first (fast, no parts)
- Confirm you are using HE detergent and measure for load size; too much can trigger “Sud.”
- Verify both hot and cold faucets are on, hoses are not kinked, and inlet screens are not clogged.
- Make sure the door closes and latches firmly.
- Level the washer so all feet contact the floor and tighten the leveling jam nuts.
- If the washer is newly installed or moved, confirm shipping bolts were removed.
Parts that commonly solve these problems on MHW8100DC0
| Symptom | Common part involved | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Not draining | Washer drain pump WPW10605427 | Pumps water out during drain/spin |
| Door won’t lock / won’t start | Washer door lock WPW10443885 | Confirms door is locked so cycles can run |
| Excessive shaking | Washer shock absorber W11415987 | Helps control tub movement during spin |
Why it matters
Drain, latch, and leveling issues can look like “the washer is broken,” but they often cause repeat cycle interruptions, poor cleaning, and extra wear on the tub and suspension. Following the troubleshooting steps in the MHW8100DC0 owner's manual helps pinpoint the exact symptom before replacing parts.
Last updated: January 2026
Can too much detergent cause an E3 error?
Yes. In a Maytag MHW8100DC0 washer, using too much detergent (or non-HE detergent) can create excess suds that interfere with normal water-level sensing and can also slow draining or spinning, which can trigger error conditions.
What to do first (quick fix)
- Press POWER/CANCEL to clear the code.
- Restart the cycle; if you still have heavy suds, run DRAIN & SPIN with Extra Rinse.
- Do not add more detergent.
- Use HE detergent only and measure based on load size.
- If your washer has a water hardness setting, set it correctly (soft vs. hard water).
Why too much detergent causes problems
Too many suds can trap air and confuse the pressure system that monitors water level. Suds can also slow the drain flow, making the washer act like it cannot drain or spin normally.
Detergent and loading checklist
- Use HE detergent (regular detergent can over-suds in front-load washers).
- Measure detergent; more soap does not mean cleaner clothes.
- Reduce detergent for small loads, lightly soiled loads, or soft water.
- Avoid tightly packing the drum; an unbalanced load can also affect spin and drain.
- If you see repeated suds issues, clean the dispenser and run a washer-cleaning cycle.
When to check parts (if symptoms continue)
If the washer repeatedly struggles to drain after you correct detergent use, check for a kinked/blocked drain hose and consider inspecting the drain system.
| Symptom | Common cause | What to check next |
|---|---|---|
| Suds, long drain, won’t spin out | Too much or wrong detergent | Switch to HE, reduce dose, run DRAIN & SPIN + Extra Rinse |
| Hums but drains slowly | Partial drain restriction | Drain hose routing, pump filter area, pockets/debris |
| Drains but error returns | Intermittent drain issue | Drain pump operation and wiring |
If you suspect a drain problem, the washer drain pump WPW10605427 is the component that moves water out of the tub.
Why it matters
Excess detergent can cause repeated error codes, poor rinsing, and slow draining. Correct dosing protects the drain pump system and helps the washer finish cycles normally.
For detergent guidance and error-code steps specific to this washer, use the MHW8100DC0 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
Can a Maytag washer wash a king size comforter?
Yes, the Maytag MHW8100DC0 can wash a king-size comforter if it fits loosely in the drum and can tumble freely. We recommend using the Bulky/Bedding-type cycle (when available) and following the load and detergent guidance in the MHW8100DC0 owner's manual.
How to load a king comforter (so it actually gets clean)
- Place the comforter in the drum evenly; do not tightly pack it.
- Leave space at the top so the item can tumble; forced packing leads to poor wash and rinse.
- If the washer starts shaking, pause and redistribute the comforter.
- Avoid adding extra items; mixing heavy towels with a comforter often causes imbalance.
- Use HE detergent only; too many suds can slow or stop the cycle.
Cycle, settings, and detergent tips
- Choose a Bulky/Bedding cycle if your control panel offers it.
- Use cold or warm water based on the comforter care label.
- Use the recommended HE detergent amount for a large load; do not “top off” with extra.
- If you see excess suds, run Drain & Spin with Extra Rinse (if available) and reduce detergent next time.
Quick decision guide
| What you see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Comforter tumbles freely | Proper load size | Run Bulky/Bedding, normal detergent amount |
| Comforter is jammed/tight | Overloaded | Remove item and use a larger-capacity washer |
| Washer bangs or walks | Load out of balance | Pause, redistribute, restart |
| Suds visible in door | Too much or wrong detergent | Use HE only; reduce amount; rinse/spin |
Why it matters
Front-load washers like the MHW8100DC0 clean by tumbling. If a king comforter cannot tumble, water and detergent cannot circulate well, rinsing suffers, and the load can go out of balance during spin.
Last updated: January 2026





