Kenmore Washer Error Code F21: Long Drain (The 'Eco Ball' Fix)

The Human Verdict

Check the trap, then ditch the ball. Most F21 errors are just a clogged coin trap. But if you clean it and the error comes back intermittently, the culprit is likely the “Eco Ball”—a plastic floating ball inside the black rubber sump hose. It’s designed to save water but often gets stuck or traps debris. Remove it permanently.

What It Means

The F21 code indicates a Long Drain condition. The washer is taking more than 8 minutes to empty the tub.

Common Causes

1. Clogged Coin Trap: The filter at the bottom of the pump is full of lint/coins.
2. The “Eco Ball” Stuck: The plastic ball in the sump hose is jamming the flow.
3. Failed Drain Pump: The pump motor has burned out or the impeller is broken.
4. Suds Lock: Too much detergent causing foam that the pump can’t move.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Clean the Coin Trap (The Easy Fix)

• Locate: Find the small access door on the bottom front. If there isn’t one, you’ll need to remove the lower front panel (usually 3 screws on the very bottom edge).
• Drain: Place a shallow pan and towel under the cap. Unscrew it slowly to release water.
• Clean: Pull the trap out completely. Remove coins, lint, and hair. Check the impeller inside with your finger to ensure it spins.

2. The “Eco Ball” Removal (The Permanent Fix)

If the trap was clean or the error returns, you need to remove the check ball.

• Access: You can reach this from the front (bottom panel removed) or the back (rear panel removed). The back is often easier.
• Locate the Boot: Find the large black rubber accordion hose connecting the tub to the drain pump.
• Remove the Clamp: Use Hose Clamp Pliers to squeeze the large spring clamp securing the hose to the tub. Slide it down.
• Extract the Ball: Pull the hose off the tub. Inside, you will find a plastic ball. Take it out and throw it away. It is not essential for operation.
• Reassemble: Reattach the hose and clamp.

Parts & Tools

• Hose Clamp Pliers (Amazon) - Essential for removing the strong spring clamp on the sump hose.
• Kenmore Washer Drain Pump Assembly (Amazon) - If the pump itself is dead (impeller won’t spin or is loose).