Error code · Washer

Whirlpool Front-Load Washer Code F21: Washer Cannot Drain, Check the Hose

Medium · inspection needed

Code: F21
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Whirlpool
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What F21 means

F21 on Whirlpool front-load washers, the Duet and WFW series such as the WFW5620HW, WFW9150WW and WFW90HEFW, is an older-generation code for a drain problem. The washer cannot get its water out, so it stops and shows F21. You may find water still in the drum and clothes that are not rinsed. The first things to check are a kinked or clogged drain hose. These older Duets are still in many homes, and we repair them.

Common causes of F21

A kinked or crushed drain hose behind the washer
A clog in the drain hose or the standpipe
A drain pump that is blocked or weak, which we test after the hose

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Unplug the washer and put towels down before you touch the hoses. 2. Look at the drain hose behind the washer and straighten any kink. 3. Check the hose and the standpipe for a visible clog. 4. Reset by leaving it unplugged for 5 minutes, then plug in and restart.

! Why to stop there

If the hose and standpipe are clear, the drain pump or its filter area needs inspection.
We tell the washer's drain from a house drain problem.
Written price first, and we say plainly if repairing an older Duet is not worth it.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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oLWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Code oL: Overloaded Tub PFWhirlpool Washer Code PF: Power Failure During the Cycle Rinse Light OnWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Rinse Light On: Spray Rinse in Progress rLWhirlpool Front-Load Washer Code rL: Items Found During Clean Washer LdWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Code Ld: Water Is Slow to Leave the Tub Sd or 5dWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Code Sd or 5d: Suds Reduction Is Running LdLWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Code LdL: Lid Fails to Lock Sense and Wash FlashingWhirlpool Top-Load Washer Sense and Wash Lights Flashing: Unbalanced Spin

F21F21 questions

What does F21 mean on my Duet?

The washer detects a drain problem and stops. A kinked or clogged drain hose is the first thing to look at, followed by the drain pump and the house standpipe.

Is there a lot of water in the drum?

Possibly. Keep the washer unplugged and do not open the door by force. If the water level is high, call us and we drain it safely before opening anything.

Should I replace an older Duet for this?

Not necessarily. Drain repairs are often moderate compared with a new washer. We quote first and say plainly if the age of the washer says to save your money.

Book a visit

Still seeing F21?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 589-6107