If your Maytag dryer is stuck on the sensing mode, you’re certainly not alone.
Many users have reported this issue, where the appliance fails to move past the sensing stage when trying to dry clothes.
This problem can be quite frustrating, but don’t worry – it’s generally not a sign of a serious defect. Instead, it’s often due to simple factors that you can fix yourself at home.
In this guide, we’ll go over 10 common fixes for a Maytag dryer stuck on sensing, to help you get your appliance back up and running efficiently.
Maytag Dryer Stuck on Sensing
1. Faulty Moisture Sensor
Cause
One of the main reasons for the Maytag dryer getting stuck on the sensing mode can be a faulty moisture sensor.
The moisture sensor is designed to measure the dampness of the clothes inside the dryer.
Its purpose is to signal the control board to stop the drying cycle when the clothes are dry.
However, if it malfunctions, it could become stuck in sensing mode, hindering the dryer’s proper functioning.
Solution
A simple solution to a faulty moisture sensor is to clean it.
Over time, dryer sheets can leave a residue on the moisture sensor, which could affect its reading.
This can be gently cleaned off using a bit of warm water and soap. It’s important to ensure that the sensor is completely dry before running the dryer again.
If this doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s best to call in a professional to replace the sensor.
After all, having a functioning moisture sensor is key to ensuring your clothes come out dry and not damaged.
2. Defective Thermistor
Cause
Another common issue that can result in the Maytag dryer getting stuck in the sensing mode is a defective thermistor.
The thermistor is a crucial component of the dryer as it monitors the temperature inside the drum and conveys this information to the control board.
However, when the thermistor is defective, it can give inaccurate readings leading to the dryer getting stuck in the sensing mode.
Solution
To rectify the problem of a defective thermistor, it’s usually necessary to replace the faulty thermistor with a new one.
To do this safely and correctly, it is advisable to consult a professional. Incorrect installation of the thermistor could lead to more severe problems down the line.
Always be sure to unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs to avoid any risk of electric shock.
3. Damaged Heating Element
Cause
A damaged heating element could cause the Maytag dryer to get stuck on sensing mode.
The heating element is central to the dryer’s operation as it generates the heat needed to dry the clothes.
When the heating element malfunctions or breaks, the dryer may not heat up correctly, if at all, leading to it getting ‘stuck’ in sensing mode as it waits for the temperature to rise.
Solution
The solution for a damaged heating element is usually to replace it.
Replacement should be done by a professional, as it involves dealing with electrical components and can be dangerous if you’re not experienced.
To ensure optimal dryer performance, it’s crucial to use a heating element that is specific to your Maytag dryer model.
Always remember to disconnect the dryer from its power source before any repair attempts to avoid any accidental electrical shocks.
4. Improper Ventilation
Cause
Improper ventilation is another key reason why a Maytag dryer might be stuck in sensing mode.
The dryer’s venting system is responsible for expelling hot, damp air out from the appliance during a drying cycle.
If there is a blockage in the ventilation system, it could disrupt this process and cause the dryer to remain in sensing mode as it may interpret the damp, hot air as clothes that are not yet dry.
Solution
The solution to improper ventilation is a thorough cleaning of the dryer’s venting system.
This can be done using a vent cleaning kit, which can be bought from most appliance stores.
The kit usually includes a long, flexible rod and a brush to clean out any lint or other debris causing blockages.
It’s important to clean the vent from both inside the dryer and from the outside of your home, if possible.
If the issue persists after cleaning, you may need to replace the venting system altogether.
Remember, always take precautions to unplug the dryer before attempting to clean or repair the venting system to avoid any potential hazards.
5. Flawed Electronic Control Board
Cause
A flawed electronic control board can also lead to a Maytag dryer getting stuck in the sensing mode.
The electronic control board is essentially the ‘brain’ of the dryer, controlling and coordinating all its operations.
If the control board is flawed or defective, it could send incorrect signals to the other components of the dryer, causing it to be stuck in sensing mode even when the clothes are dry.
Solution
The most effective solution for a flawed electronic control board is its replacement.
This task should be carried out by a professional, as incorrect installation can lead to severe damage.
Before the professional arrives, ensure to unplug the dryer to eliminate the risk of electrical shocks.
It’s also important to source a replacement control board that matches your Maytag dryer’s model to ensure compatibility.
Lastly, always confirm that the problem is indeed the control board before replacing it, as other issues can also cause similar symptoms.
6. Inadequate Power Supply
Cause
An inadequate power supply is a potential reason why your Maytag dryer might stick in sensing mode.
Power supply issues can stem from an inappropriate voltage or intermittent power loss, affecting the working of the dryer.
The Maytag dryer requires an adequate and constant power supply to function optimally.
If it does not get this, the dryer might misinterpret these power fluctuations as a sign that the clothes are not yet dry, causing it to get stuck in sensing mode.
Solution
To resolve power supply issues, first, ensure your dryer is connected to a power supply delivering the right voltage.
You can do this by checking the power outlet with a voltmeter. If the power supply is inconsistent, it may be an electrical issue in your home. In this case, contact an electrician to investigate and rectify the problem.
Remember, it’s important to disconnect the dryer before attempting any troubleshooting to avoid any electrical mishaps.
If the power supply is adequate and the dryer still gets stuck, consult a professional for further diagnosis and repair.
7. Broken Belt Switch
Cause
A broken belt switch might be the reason your Maytag dryer is stuck in sensing mode.
The belt switch is a crucial component that helps the dryer to rotate the drum. If this switch is broken or faulty, the drum might not spin properly.
Consequently, the dryer may interpret this malfunction as damp clothes requiring further drying, thus causing the dryer to remain stuck in the sensing mode.
A broken belt switch inhibits the drum’s rotation, leading the dryer to misinterpret this as damp clothes, and so remaining stuck in sensing mode.
Solution
The solution to a broken belt switch is straightforward – it needs to be replaced.
This task, although it might appear simple, should be carried out by a professional to avoid further complications.
Acquiring a belt switch specific to your dryer’s model is paramount to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Always remember to disconnect the power before the replacement process begins to avoid electrical shocks.
Replacement of the faulty belt switch, ideally by a professional, is the key to resolving this issue.
Always ensure the replacement part is specific to your dryer model for optimal performance.
8. Incorrect Timer Settings
Cause
The cause of the issue might lie within the incorrect timer settings of your Maytag dryer.
These timers are intricately designed to control the various cycles and operations of the dryer.
If these settings are not correctly configured, it could lead the dryer to misinterpret the time needed for a complete drying cycle, causing it to remain stuck in sensing mode.
Misconfigured timer settings are often a result of manual errors or a malfunction within the timer itself.
Solution
To rectify incorrect timer settings, you’ll need to review and reset the dryer’s timer settings.
First, consult your dryer’s user manual to understand the correct settings for different types of laundry loads.
If the timer is physically malfunctioning, it might require replacement.
This task should ideally be performed by a professional technician to avoid any potential hazards or further damage.
Remember, always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs.
Ensure that the replacement timer is compatible with your specific Maytag dryer model for optimal performance.
9. Unresponsive Touchpad
Cause
An unresponsive touchpad is another possible cause of your Maytag dryer getting stuck in sensing mode.
The touchpad is a crucial interface that allows you to interact with and control the dryer.
If it becomes unresponsive, it may not relay your commands to the machine, leading to the dryer remaining stuck in ‘sensing’ mode.
This issue can often stem from physical damage, wear and tear, or internal electrical faults within the touchpad assembly.
Remember, an unresponsive touchpad disrupts the interaction between you and your Maytag dryer, potentially causing it to get stuck in sensing mode.
Physical damage, wear and tear, or internal electrical faults are common culprits of an unresponsive touchpad.
Solution
The solution for an unresponsive touchpad commonly lies in its replacement.
To ensure accurate diagnosis, it’s advisable to contact a professional technician to verify if the touchpad is indeed the issue.
Once confirmed, source a replacement touchpad that’s specifically designed for your dryer model to guarantee compatibility and optimal performance.
As always, disconnect your dryer from the power supply before commencing any repairs to prevent electrical hazards.
Resolving an unresponsive touchpad often involves its replacement.
However, always seek professional diagnosis to confirm the touchpad as the issue.
When purchasing a replacement, ensure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model.
Never forget to disconnect the power supply before starting any repair work.
10. Bad Door Switch
Cause
A malfunctioning door switch could be a reason why your Maytag dryer gets stuck in sensing mode.
The switch is a critical security feature that tells your dryer when the door is open or closed.
If it’s faulty, the dryer might mistakenly assume the door is open even when it’s shut.
This situation can cause the dryer to pause its cycle indefinitely, making it seem as if it’s stuck in sensing mode.
Remember, a malfunctioning door switch can mislead the dryer into thinking the door is open, causing it to pause its cycle.
Solution
Fixing a bad door switch typically involves its replacement.
First, you must disconnect the dryer from its power source to avoid electrical hazards.
Then, confirm if the door switch is faulty by using a multimeter.
If it proves defective, order a replacement part that is compatible with your specific Maytag dryer model.
Once the new switch arrives, it’s advisable to hire a professional to handle the replacement to ensure proper installation and avoid exacerbating the problem.
To resolve a bad door switch, you must replace it with a part compatible with your dryer model.
Consider hiring a professional for this task to ensure proper installation and avoid further issues.
Conclusion
Having a Maytag dryer stuck on sensing can be quite a frustrating experience.
However, as we have explored, there are several potential causes for this issue, each with its own remedy.
These causes range from a faulty touchpad, a broken belt switch, and incorrect timer settings, to a bad door switch.
The key to resolving these issues lies in diagnosing the root cause correctly and undertaking the necessary actions, which often involve replacing the faulty components.
It’s advisable to engage a professional technician in these tasks to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe, effective repairs.
Remember, always disconnect the power when undertaking any repairs to avoid electrical shocks.
With these steps, you can rest assured that your Maytag dryer will be back to its optimal working condition in no time.
FAQs
Why does my Maytag dryer say ‘sensing’?
Your Maytag dryer says ‘sensing’ when it’s determining the moisture level in the load to optimize the drying time. This is a normal part of the dryer’s cycle.
Why is my Maytag dryer sensing but not drying?
If your Maytag dryer is sensing but not drying, it could be due to a faulty belt switch, incorrect timer settings, an unresponsive touchpad, or a bad door switch.
Each of these issues disrupts the normal functioning and drying ability of the machine.
Where is the reset button on a Maytag dryer?
Maytag dryers typically do not have a dedicated reset button. Instead, you can reset the dryer by unplugging it from its power source for about a minute and then plugging it back in. This action works to reset the appliance’s internal computer.
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