What is the capacity of the LAT9704AAE?
The Maytag LAT9704AAE washer has a 3.2 cu. ft. tub capacity. This is the amount of wash basket space available for clothing and linens; using the right load size helps cleaning performance and helps prevent out-of-balance spinning.
- Load items loosely to about the top row of holes in the basket (not packed down).
- Mix large and small items to help the load balance during spin.
- For bulky items (blankets, comforters), wash one bulky item at a time when possible.
- Choose the correct water level for the load size; the manual lists typical total water usage by water-level setting.
- If the washer pauses briefly during the cycle, that is normal operation.
Capacity is the basket volume (3.2 cu. ft.). Water level is how much water the washer uses for a selected setting.
| What you’re choosing | What it affects | Example on LAT9704AAE |
|---|---|---|
| Tub capacity | How much the basket can hold | 3.2 cu. ft. basket volume |
| Water level setting | How much water is used | Extra small through extra large settings |
Matching load size, water level, and cycle selection helps prevent poor rinsing, reduced agitation, and off-balance spinning. It also helps you avoid overloading, which can strain drive components like the belt.
For the exact water-level guidance and cycle behavior for this washer, use the LAT9704AAE owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I reset the lid lock on a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag LAT9704AAE, there is no electronic “lid lock reset” like on newer digital washers; the washer uses a lid switch safety circuit. To clear a stop condition, we reset it by stopping the cycle, closing the lid fully, then restarting the cycle per the LAT9704AAE owner's manual.
- Push the timer/control knob in to stop the washer.
- Open the lid and check for a shifted or off-balance load; redistribute items evenly.
- Close the lid completely.
- Pull the timer/control knob out to restart the cycle.
- If the washer paused during the cycle, wait briefly; short pauses can be normal.
This model is designed not to agitate or spin with the lid open. If the lid is closed and it still will not run, the lid switch circuit is the first thing we check.
Common signs of a lid switch problem
- Washer fills but will not agitate or spin
- Washer stops when you close the lid and try to restart
- You have to press or hold the lid down to get any response
| Symptom | Most likely area | Example part for LAT9704AAE |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t agitate/spin with lid closed | Lid switch | Lid switch W10820036 |
| Intermittent stop/start with lid movement | Lid switch | Washer lid switch WP207166 |
The lid switch is a safety feature; if the washer senses the lid is open (or the switch is failing), it will prevent agitation and spinning. Resetting the cycle can clear a simple interruption, but a failing switch usually needs replacement.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
The most common Maytag washer problems are no spin and no drain. On the Maytag LAT9704AAE, the first things we check are the lid switch (the washer will not spin with the lid “open”), the drive belt, and drain restrictions; these issues cause the biggest share of “won’t finish cycle” complaints.
- Washer won’t spin: lid switch not closing, broken/slipping belt, drive system wear
- Washer won’t drain: kinked/clogged drain hose, pump restriction, siphoning/standpipe issue
- Loud grinding or rumbling: tub bearing or drive bearing wear
- Excessive vibration: unlevel washer, overloaded tub, worn suspension components
- Water leaks: hose connection leak, tub gasket leak, pump-to-tub hose leak
- Confirm the lid is closing firmly and the lid strike lines up with the switch.
- Try a spin cycle with an empty tub; listen for motor running but tub not spinning (often belt or drive issue).
- Inspect the drain path: look for kinks, clogs, or a crushed hose behind the washer.
- Check loading habits: items wrapped around the agitator can prevent proper movement (your LAT9704AAE owner's manual covers correct loading and cycle use).
| Symptom | Common culprit | Example part for LAT9704AAE |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t spin, acts like lid is open | Lid switch | Lid switch W10820036 or washer lid switch WP207166 |
| Motor runs, tub does not spin well | Worn/broken belt | Washer drive belt 12112425 |
| Drains slowly or leaks at drain connection | Drain hose issue or loose clamp | Hose,pump to WP22001448 and a clamp such as WP285655/WP3367052 |
A washer that cannot spin or drain usually cannot complete the cycle, which leaves clothes soaking wet and can strain the motor and drive system. Catching a simple lid switch or belt problem early often prevents bigger repairs.
Last updated: January 2026
Can I still use my washer with an F7E1 error?
No. If your Maytag LAT9704AAE is showing an F7E1 error, stop using the washer until you correct the cause; continuing to run cycles can lead to repeated stopping, poor spinning, and added strain on the drive system.
- Unplug the washer for 1 minute, then plug it back in.
- Make sure the lid closes fully; this washer is designed not to agitate or spin with the lid open.
- Try a small test load; an off-balance load can stop the washer during spin.
- Verify the outlet has power (check the breaker or fuse).
- If the washer pauses briefly during the cycle, that can be normal.
For model-specific operating and safety notes, follow the steps in the LAT9704AAE owner's manual.
Even though F7E1 is commonly associated with a motor speed sensing problem on many washers, the most productive first checks on this style of Maytag top-load design are the basics that stop agitation or spin:
| Symptom you see | Most likely area to check | What you can do next |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t agitate or spin | Lid not closed or lid switch issue | Confirm lid closes; inspect lid switch actuator and wiring |
| Stops during spin | Off-balance load or leveling | Redistribute load; check leveling legs |
| Won’t start or stops randomly | Power supply issue | Check outlet, breaker/fuse, cord connection |
If the lid is closed but the washer still will not agitate or spin, the lid switch circuit is a common failure point on this model family.
- Consider inspecting/testing the lid switch W10820036.
- If your unit uses the alternate switch style, compare it to the washer lid switch WP207166.
(We recommend using a multimeter test only if you are comfortable working around electrical components.)
This washer is designed to stop agitation and spinning for safety when the lid is open or when the lid switch system malfunctions; addressing the root cause prevents repeated shutdowns and protects the motor, belt, and transmission from unnecessary stress.
Last updated: January 2026





