Whirlpool Washer F21 Error Code — Meaning, Causes & Fix (2025)

Q: Is the F21 error code serious?

It is a medium-severity fault. The machine will stop mid-cycle, but the cause is usually a clogged filter or kinked drain hose — both are DIY fixes that take 15–30 minutes. A failed pump motor is the less common cause and requires a part replacement.

What F21 Actually Means

The F21 fault code on Whirlpool front-load washers is a drain time error. The machine's control board runs an 8-minute timer the moment a drain cycle begins. If water level sensors still detect water in the drum when that timer expires, the board triggers F21, pauses the cycle, and locks the door.

The code itself is not a diagnosis — it tells you the effect (slow or failed draining), not the specific cause. That's what this guide is for. The causes range from trivially simple to genuinely expensive, so working through them in order of likelihood saves you money and time.

F21 appears on Whirlpool front-load models including the WFW series (WFW72HEDW, WFW75HEFW, WFW87HEDC), Duet series models, and on Maytag washers built on the same platform. If you own a Maytag MHW series, this guide applies to you too.

Causes Ranked by Likelihood

Below is every known cause of F21, ranked from most to least common based on technician service data. Work through them in this order.

Cause	Likelihood	DIY?	Est. Parts Cost	Time Required
Clogged drain filter / pump filter	★★★ High	Yes	$0	10–15 min
Kinked or clogged drain hose	★★★ High	Yes	$0–$25	15–20 min
Drain hose standpipe too deep	★★ Medium	Yes	$0	5 min
Failed drain pump motor	★★ Medium	Yes (with tools)	$45–$95	45–60 min
Faulty water level pressure sensor	★ Low	Partial	$20–$45	30 min
Control board failure	★ Low	No — call tech	$150–$280	—

Step-by-Step Fix Guide

Follow these steps in order. Most people resolve F21 at Step 1 or 2.

Power cycle the machine ⏱ 3 min

Before anything else, rule out a temporary glitch. Press Cancel/Drain to attempt a drain cycle. If water drains and the code clears, run a short spin cycle to confirm.

If water does not drain or the code returns immediately, continue to Step 2. Do not skip directly to Step 4 — start with the filter.

Clean the drain pump filter (most common fix) ⏱ 10–15 min

The drain filter is located behind a small access panel at the front lower-left of the machine. This filter catches lint, coins, and debris — and clogs are the #1 cause of F21.

Place a shallow baking dish or tray under the access panel before opening it — water will spill out.
Open the panel door (usually press and pull, no tools needed).
Slowly turn the filter cap counter-clockwise about a half turn to release the water gradually into your tray.
Once flow slows, fully remove the filter cap and pull out the filter.
Rinse the filter under running water, removing all debris. Use a small brush if needed.
Inspect the pump cavity with a flashlight for any remaining debris or a stuck sock.
Reinstall the filter, run a Spin/Drain cycle, and check if F21 clears.

✓ If the filter had visible debris and the machine now drains, you're done. Clean this filter every 2–3 months to prevent recurrence.

Inspect the drain hose ⏱ 10 min

Pull the machine away from the wall and inspect the drain hose — the corrugated hose running from the back of the machine into the standpipe or laundry tub.

Check for kinks — the hose should have no sharp bends. Straighten any kinks and run a test cycle.
Check the standpipe insertion depth. The drain hose should enter the standpipe no more than 6 inches (15 cm). If it's pushed in deeper, it can create a siphon that prevents proper draining. Pull it out to the correct depth and use a zip tie to hold it at the rim.
Disconnect the hose at the standpipe end and blow through it to check for blockages. A clogged hose will resist airflow.

⚠ If the hose is cracked or the corrugation is collapsed internally, replace it. A replacement drain hose (universal fit) costs $15–$25 at hardware stores.

Test the drain pump ⏱ 20 min

If the filter and hose are clear, the pump motor itself may be failing. Signs of a failing pump include an unusually quiet drain cycle (you can't hear the pump working) or grinding sounds during draining.

Run a spin cycle and listen at the front lower area of the machine for the pump. A working pump is audible — a low hum or whirring.
If completely silent, the pump may have failed electrically. To confirm, access the pump (tilt machine back, remove bottom panel) and check that the pump connector wires are seated and not corroded.
A replacement drain pump for Whirlpool front-loaders (part #W10130913 fits many WFW models) costs $45–$95 online. Installation is DIY-possible with basic tools and YouTube guidance.

Check the pressure sensor hose ⏱ 15 min

The water level pressure sensor tells the control board how much water is in the drum. If this sensor or its air hose is faulty, the board may believe there's still water present even after a complete drain.

Access the pressure sensor (behind the control panel on most WFW models — consult your model's service manual for exact location).
Trace the thin rubber air hose from the sensor down to the tub. Check for cracks, splits, or disconnection.
Gently blow into the sensor hose end — you should hear a click from the sensor. No click may indicate a failed sensor.
Replacement sensors cost $20–$45. This is a DIY repair if you're comfortable removing the top panel.

🔴 When to Stop and Call a Technician

Steps 1–4 did not resolve F21 and the machine still won't drain after 2 test cycles
You can hear the pump running but water is definitely not moving — may indicate a pump impeller failure requiring pump replacement with internal inspection
You suspect a control board issue (intermittent F21 with no clear drain problem) — board diagnostics require a service meter
The machine is under manufacturer warranty — DIY repairs may void coverage

A technician visit for F21 on a Whirlpool typically costs $95–$180 for diagnosis + parts depending on the actual cause. If the repair quote exceeds $250 on a machine over 8 years old, consider replacement.

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Preventing F21 From Returning

If a clogged filter was your issue, you have a maintenance habit to build. Front-load washer filters should be cleaned every 2–3 months under normal use, or monthly if you wash pet bedding frequently. Mark your calendar or pair it with another quarterly habit.

Always check pockets before loading — coins, hair ties, and small items are the most common filter culprits. Avoid overfilling the drum. And if you use high-efficiency (HE) detergent but are using the non-HE variety, excess suds can interfere with drain sensor readings and contribute to slow drain detection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the F21 error code mean on a Whirlpool washer? +

F21 means the washing machine took longer than 8 minutes to drain. The control board detects water still in the drum when it should have drained, and triggers this fault to stop the cycle and protect the pump motor from running dry.

Is the F21 error code serious? +

It's a medium-severity fault. The machine will stop mid-cycle, but the cause is usually a clogged filter or kinked drain hose — both are DIY fixes that take 15–30 minutes. A failed pump motor is the less common cause and requires a part replacement costing $45–$95.

Can I fix F21 myself? +

Yes, in most cases. The drain filter clog is the most common cause and requires no tools — just a towel and 10 minutes. Hose inspection and basic pump checks are also DIY-appropriate. Only electrical control board replacement should be left to a technician.

How much does it cost to fix Whirlpool F21? +

If the fix is a clogged filter: $0. If the drain hose needs replacing: $15–$30 for parts. A new drain pump costs $45–$95 in parts, or $150–$250 with a technician. Control board replacement runs $200–$350 with labor.

Which Whirlpool models display F21? +

F21 appears on Whirlpool front-load washers including the WFW series (WFW72HEDW, WFW75HEFW, WFW87HEDC), many Duet models, and some HE top-loaders with digital displays. Maytag washers sharing the Whirlpool platform may show the same code.

Will the F21 error go away on its own? +

Rarely. A power cycle reset may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying drain problem is not resolved, F21 will return on the next drain cycle. Address the root cause before running another full load.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. ApplianceCodeFix.com is not responsible for any damage that may result from DIY repair attempts. Always disconnect power before opening any appliance. If in doubt, consult a qualified technician.