SD Or SUD Code On Maytag Washer! Troubleshooting And Fixes.

sd or sud code on maytag washer

In the modern era of household appliances, Maytag washers stand as a symbol of reliability and innovation. However, in some situations, you may face SD or SUD error codes in these washers.

Generally, the SD Or SUD Code On Maytag Washer means “Excessive Suds”. This can be caused by using too much detergent, not using HE detergent, or using a type of liquid chlorine bleach that contains a thickening agent.

Because of this, the washer can’t spin the water properly and ultimately damage the washer. So continue reading to learn how to overcome this situation.

SD Or SUD Code On Maytag Washer: What Does It Mean?

Typically, the SD or SUD code on a Maytag washer represents the Suds Lock or Excessive Suds. Laundry appliances show this code when a massive amount of suds occurs during the cycle of washing.

SD Or SUD Code On Maytag Washer

Although suds are natural byproducts of washing clothes, an excessive amount of this can cause problems. In this situation, the washer can’t spin out water with the excess suds.

In fact, SD or SUD codes represent/indicate the same problems. But depending on your Maytag washer’s model and manufacturing year your washer’s control panel may display either SD or SUD error code.

Unfortunately, this is a very serious issue. That’s why understanding these codes is crucial for maintaining your washer’s performance and ensuring your clothes are clean and fresh.

Why does this SD code occur?

Why does this SD code occur on maytag washer

This can happen for a number of reasons, including

  • Using too much detergent
  • Using the wrong type of detergent
  • Overloading the washer.
  • Using fabric softener
  • Having a clogged drain hose
  • Having a faulty washer pump

In these situations, the Maytag washer increases the rinse time and tries to remove the excess suds automatically. As part of this process, the washer stops tumbling and adds extra water for additional rinsing.

As a result of this pause, the bubbles in the suds can break. In essence, this pause and rinsing process is necessary to ensure optimal results. Besides, the washer may repeat this process several times to remove all suds.

Note: Remember that when this error message appears, it doesn’t mean there is a problem with your machine. 

In fact, it is an advanced safety feature of the Maytag washer intended to protect your machine from being damaged by excessive suds.

Troubleshooting And Fixes Of SD Code On Maytag Washer

When the Maytag washer detects an issue while operating, it shows different types of error codes on the control panel.

Troubleshooting And Fixes Of SD Code On Maytag Washer

Such as F# E# or F## (indicates a System error), LDL (indicates Lid isn’t locking), DRN (draining issue), etc. And there are specific solutions for each code.

Among them, SD or SUD error code is the most common one and often occurs. So, check out this section to learn how to troubleshoot and fix this code.

1. Excessive detergent

Usually, excessive detergent is considered the main cause of SD or SUD error code on a Maytag washer.

Excessive detergent on maytag washer

In fact, modern washing machines are designed to be efficient and use less water. So using a high amount of detergent can lead to excessive suds.

To avoid it, use only the recommended amount of detergent for your load size. If you’re unsure about how much detergent to use, consult your owner’s manual or contact Maytag customer service for assistance.

2. Wrong type of detergent

After using the right amount of detergent, the washer can again show this error code if you use the wrong type of detergent. Because regular detergent is not designed for modern washers and can create excess suds.

So it is important to use only high-efficiency (HE) detergent in your Maytag washer.

Basically, HE detergents are specially formulated to produce fewer suds than regular detergents and can wash clothes with low water quantities.

Here is a table of some best high-efficiency (HE) detergent and their price.

NameQuantityPrice
Tide Original HE92 fl oz$9.99
Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean127 oz$38.26
Purex Liquid Laundry Detergent312 fl oz$16.97
Dirty Labs Laundry Detergent110 fl oz$11.38
Gain Botanicals Laundry Detergent100 fl oz$46.99

3. Liquid chlorine bleach

Because of a specific type of liquid chlorine bleach, your Maytag washer can show this error code.

Chlorine bleach that’s labeled with “easy-pour” or “no splash” usually has a thickening agent that can cause excess suds in the washer.

This can prevent the washer from spinning out of the water, resulting in an error code.

In this situation, run the washer empty with a cup of white vinegar in the bleach dispenser. This will break down the suds and clear the error code.

But, if you don’t have it, then use regular liquid bleach instead of liquid chlorine bleach.

4. Clogged drain hose

A drain hose in a washing machine helps to drain the water after the wash cycle is complete. The drain hose is typically made of flexible plastic and is connected to the back of the washer.

But if this becomes clogged, the water can’t drain out of the washer, which can lead to excessive suds.

So, if you think your drain hose is clogged, then unplug the washer and disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer. Now inspect the hose for kinks, blockages, or damage and if needed, replace it.

Depending on the quality, it will cost around $8 to $15.

Follow this video to learn how to do it:

5. Faulty washer pump

Finally, after checking all of the other possible causes, if you still get this code, then the washer pressure itself might be faulty.

Usually, after completing the cycle, the washer pump drains the water from the washer. But when the pump malfunctions, it can cause the water to back up and overflow, which can lead to excessive suds.

Sometimes cleaning this pump solves this issue. To do it, disconnect the power to the washer, remove the back panel, and find the pump (located near the bottom of the washer).

Now remove it and clean it with a mild detergent. Next, install it to see if it’s working or not.

If the issue still exists, then you will need to replace the pump. But be sure to get a pump that is compatible with your washer model. Depending on the washer model this may cost around $100 to $200.

Tips To Prevent Maytag Washer SD Or SUD Code

Although you may be able to resolve the issue by following the above methods or by having a mechanic. But it is always advisable to use the washer in such a way that you do not encounter this problem.

The following tips will help you with this:

  • Always try to use the correct amount of detergent
  • Clean the lint trap after every use
  • Don’t use non-compatible bleach or fabric softener
  • Don’t overfill the detergent dispenser
  • Never overload the washer
  • Before washing, apply a prewash stain remover directly to the stains

FAQs

Although we have tried our best to cover all the topics about SD or SUD code, you might still want to know more. So some extra questions are answered below that may satisfy your curiosity.

Is It Possible To Use A Maytag Washer When It Shows SD Or SUD Code?

No. Usually, it’s not only possible but also not recommended to use a Maytag washer when it shows the SD or SUD code. Basically in this situation, the Maytag washer stops tumbling and tries to remove excessive suds.

How Long Does It Take To Solve SUD Code On Maytag Washer?

The time required to fix this issue varies depending on the cause. Such as for minor causes (like too much or the wrong detergent) requires a few minutes. However, if it’s a clogged drain hose or faulty washer pump, it might take longer to solve.

What Are The Common Error Codes For A Maytag Washer?

Common error codes for a Maytag washer include OFB (washer load is out of balance), LF, Lo FL, or F8 E1 (washer is not filling fast enough), PF (power failure interrupted wash cycle), OL (too much load in the washer), etc.

Final Words

While showing the SD Code On Maytag Washer, you might also notice that the washer’s Complete Cycle light is on.

Usually, this Light turns on when your washer itself fails to clear this problem.

So, in this situation, it’s recommended to take it to an expert technician. Though it’ll cost you some money, you’ll get a reliable service.

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