A UL error on your Maytag washer’s control board may indicate that there are unbalanced loads. It usually goes away on its own, but sometimes, it persists. This is a pretty common error on many front-load washing machines.
If you can’t figure out how to get rid of this error code, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps you need to take to get rid of the UL error. Let’s get started!
How to Fix the UL Error in Maytag Washing Machines
Fixing the UL error in Maytag washers shouldn’t be that complicated. Here are some of the possible ways to get rid of this error:
Dealing With an Unbalanced Load
According to Maytag’s user manual, the UL error means that there’s an unbalanced load. But what does an off-balanced load exactly mean?
Well, suppose that you put a small load in your washing machine’s drum without distributing it evenly across the drum’s surface. In that case, the washer might display the UL error and produce a loud banging sound, indicating that the load is out of balance.
Rearrange the Items
If your washer’s dial is blinking and the drum stops spinning, the first thing that you can do to get rid of the UL error message is to rearrange the wet items inside the drum, then close the lid and restart the spin cycle.
In some cases, the washer may automatically run an imbalanced load correction routine mid cycle to redistribute the load. However, most of the time, it’s not very effective, especially if you’re dealing with a lot of small items.
If the washer is vibrating and the dial has stopped blinking, then the machine was unable to resolve the unbalanced load problem on its own.
Don’t Wash Single Items
Washing a single item with your washer may not be a very good idea, simply because it’ll cause unbalance in the drum and result in an error code. So, the next time you’re going to wash a heavy jacket or bedsheet, try to add some extra items to balance the load and avoid a loading issue.
Also, make sure that you turn on the Bulky/Sheets Deep Water Wash cycle when washing such items. You can avoid a ton of errors and problems simply by choosing the right wash cycle in the first place.
Reduce the Load
In some cases, overloading your washer’s drum with items may result in a load unbalance. As a general rule of thumb, only load your washing machine with a maximum of 80% of its capacity. Fully loading up the inner tub is usually not recommended and may cause problems down the line.
So, try reducing the load a little bit and see if it works. You can start by removing some of the heavier items. Also, make sure to redistribute the rest of the things while doing so.
If balancing the load didn’t get rid of the message, you can try resetting the washing machine and see if it works. In some situations, the error message may still be there, even if the issue has been resolved.
Here’s how to reset a washer:
Push the power button and unplug the power cord
Wait for a few seconds
Plug the power cord back in and choose a wash cycle
Press pause or the start button
Replacing the Suspension Spring Rod Kit
In less common scenarios, the UL error is related to a faulty suspension spring rod kit. In that case, you’ll need to get a new kit to fix the unbalance problem.
However, only opt for this solution as a last resort since the cost of getting a new suspension rod far exceeds that of simply balancing the load.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If My Washer’s Suspension Rods Are Bad?
If your Maytag washing machine is constantly vibrating, load imbalances will be more likely to occur. The most common cause of vibrating washers is bad suspension rods.
Replacing the shock absorbers may help you permanently get rid of the recurring unbalancing problem.
Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Washing Machine?
It depends on how damaged the front or top-load washer is. Many problems, such as those related to imbalances, are easily flexible and won’t cost you that much, if at all.
However, if your Maytag machine is ancient and multiple core parts need to be replaced, like the drain pump and the washer tub, you’re better off getting a new one.
How to Do a Maytag Washing Machine Lift?
Lifting your Maytag Bravos XL washer or any other washing machine off the ground should be done carefully to avoid injuring yourself. Your best bet is to wear protective gloves and shoes, then start lifting the machine slowly and lean it on the wall.
Conclusion
By now, you should be able to get your Maytag washer up and running again. Resolving the UL error is pretty simple on most washing machines and won’t likely require you to request service repair.
However, if you tried everything and the error message is still there, your best bet would be to call a professional for help. Usually, they’ll find out that one or more of your washing machine’s components are faulty and need replacement.
