The current MHW5500F? Full access requires removing the one-piece front panel. A gymnastic servicer could possibly reach it by loosening the door/tub boot, pushing the tub back and reaching down through the gap but there'd be no way to place a catch-pan for the residual water. Or maybe via the rear panel but the pump-filter cap is at the front facing forward and involves the same issue of residual water ... and both of those method depends whether there's room inside to remove it.

There seems to be excess concern about these pump-trap filters. Recurring maintenance isn't required ... only if there's a problem with slow draining. Proper checking of pockets for stray items and avoiding excessively-linty items such as deteriorated towels or throw rugs goes a long way on prevention.

I watched a YouTube video about the 3500 series front loader (same as mine it seems just less options) and seems you can reach it from the back? It shows just taking the back off and the pump and filter is in there. Wasn’t sure if that was gonna be the same for the mhe5500f as well. I can’t find any service manuals about this thing. Twelve simple screws they say lol it always says it simple until it’s not.

Im very good about checking everything however it’s the 20 year old kids that are not so much. So far it’s fine but if it’s anything like some of our previous ones it was a half the day job to do the pump filter. A fridgidare front loader we had years and years ago you had to tear apart and the filter was in the piping going to the pump so it all had to be disconnected. It wasn’t easy. Hubby and I damn near divorced (kidding).

I don’t know why the hell manufactures do this. Well I do really they want you to call someone to come do it. Job security I suppose.

Thanks for the input.

Laura, exept for the new WFW560, all new WP washers have have a pump access ability in the same drawer with their bulk detergent dispenser. The comparable new Maytags don't have this design.

I don’t have a whirlpool nor do I have a bulk detergent drawer. It’s a Maytag and pretty sure after watching a few videos it’s right behind the back access panel. We shall find out tomorrow as the kids washed new clothes and left the stickers on them and now guess what’s not anywhere in the washer drum? Yep the stickers ugh.

Larisa,

I found a vid that says to tilt the machine back against the wall (at enough of an angle to be stable), and the panel on the bottom can be removed for access. (Be careful also of putting a strain on the water supply hoses.) Requires some handling of the machine but certainly is doable.

Depends on the design of the specific machine.

Cleaning Maytag Maxima Pump Trap

Just an update it was super simple just six or so screws to take the back panel off and the pump has a filter for easy access. Found the stickers and a kids sock. Thank goodness it wasn’t like the old washer we had and had to tear it all apart. Phew! At least Maytag made it where most can do it themselves.