F9E3 Moderate Easy DIY

Maytag Dishwasher F9E3 — Drain Hose Restriction

Maytag Dishwasher · Error code F9E3

What F9E3 Means

Drain attempted but flow was too restricted to clear the sump. Closely related to F9E2 but specifically flags the hose/loop path rather than the pump.

Symptoms

  • Slow drain
  • Water backs up into the sink basin
  • Repeated fault after running disposal
  • Foul odor

Common Causes

1
Grease/food buildup in the drain hose

Internal coating reduces hose diameter.

2
Improperly looped drain hose

Hose doesn't have the required high loop / air gap.

3
Clogged air gap on the sink

External air gap chamber is plugged.

4
Disposal inlet partially blocked

Old food debris in the dishwasher inlet of the disposal.

How to Fix It

  1. Verify the drain hose has a high loop (fastened up under the counter) or routes through an air gap.
  2. Disconnect the hose at the disposal and check for grease buildup; flush it through.
  3. Clean the sink air gap if present (twist off the cap, clear debris).
  4. Run the disposal with hot water for 30 seconds before starting the dishwasher.
  5. Replace the drain hose if internal buildup can't be cleared.

More Maytag Dishwasher Codes

F1E1 F1E1 — Control Board Failure F2E1 F2E1 — Stuck Key on Control Panel F2E2 F2E2 — User Interface Communication Error F3E1 F3E1 — Thermistor / OWI Sensor Failure F3E2 F3E2 — Thermistor Open / Out of Range F4E1 F4E1 — Heater Circuit Fault

All Maytag codes → All dishwasher codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: maytag.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.