Maytag Washer Error Code rL

The rL code on a Maytag washer means "Remove Load" and appears when the washer detects items inside the drum at the start of a Clean Washer cycle. The Clean Washer cycle is designed to run on an empty drum only. To clear the code, open the door, remove any items from the drum, and restart the cycle.

In the vast majority of cases, the rL code is not a serious problem and does not indicate any component failure. It is a protective notice alerting you that the drum is not empty before a cleaning cycle. Only if the code persists after you have confirmed the drum is empty would further diagnosis of the load sensing or drum mechanics be needed.

Most rL code situations require no repair cost at all, since the code typically resolves by removing laundry from the drum. If the code persists due to a mechanical issue such as a drum bearing problem or a faulty load sensing component, repair costs can range from around $75 to $250 or more depending on the specific part and labor involved.

The fix is straightforward in most cases: open the washer door and remove all clothing, rags, or other items from the drum. Once the drum is completely empty, restart the Clean Washer cycle and the code should not reappear. If the code returns with an empty drum, check whether the drum rotates freely by hand, as a mechanical obstruction could be causing a false load reading.

Simply resetting the washer without removing items from the drum will not permanently clear the rL code, because the washer will detect the load again as soon as the Clean Washer cycle begins. The correct resolution is to empty the drum first, then restart the cycle. A power reset alone does not address the underlying condition the code is reporting.