Kenmore Washer Error Code F21: How to Fix It

The Logic Verdict

Scott “The Fix-It Guy” chased an F21 on a Kenmore Elite / Whirlpool-built front loader that would randomly stop mid-cycle. He unplugged the washer, supported the front on a toolbox, removed the three screws under the kick panel, and caught the water that gushed out of the drain pump trap. After clearing the debris, he freed the tub-to-pump boot, pulled out the plastic check ball Whirlpool installs for “efficiency,” and reinstalled the boot with hose-clamp pliers. Once the check ball was gone and the pump was locked back into its rubber cradle, the washer drained instantly and the intermittent F21 vanished.

What It Means

F21 (or F/21) means the control timed out waiting for the water level to drop. The drain pump gets about eight minutes to empty the tub; if a clog or failed component keeps water from moving, the board cancels the cycle and flashes F21.

Common Causes

• Blocked pump trap. Coins, screws, hair ties, and lint choke the clean-out cup just like the video shows.
• Stuck Whirlpool check ball. The plastic ball in the tub-to-pump boot can wedge in place and cause an intermittent long-drain fault; Whirlpool’s service bulletin allows removing it.
• Kinked or plugged drain hose. Pinches behind the cabinet or a sealed standpipe stop water from leaving the washer.
• Failed drain pump motor. If the impeller won’t spin freely or sounds rough, the pump may need replacement after you clear the plumbing.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Disconnect power and drop the toe panel. Unplug the washer, prop the front up a few inches, and remove the three 1/4” screws under the kick plate. Slide the panel down and set a towel or tray under the pump.
2. Drain the pump trap. Twist the clean-out cap counterclockwise to relieve pressure, then remove it fully. Expect one to two cups of water. Empty the debris, wipe the O-ring, and check the impeller for wrapped hair bands.
3. Create working space. Release the harness clips along the frame so the wires move, lift the pump body out of its rubber cradle, and loosen the large spring clamp that holds the tub-to-pump boot.
4. Remove the check ball and clean the boot. Pull the plastic ball out, rinse any sludge inside the boot, and slide the boot back onto the tub outlet. Use hose-clamp pliers (or large slip-joint pliers) to compress the clamp and seat it in its grooves.
5. Reassemble the pump. Set the pump back into its mount, tighten the clean-out cap, reconnect the power plug, and push the harness clips back into their slots so the wires stay clear of the drum.
6. Test for leaks and confirm drainage. Before installing the kick plate, run a quick rinse/drain cycle while watching for leaks. Once the washer drains without flashing F21, reinstall the lower panel—the screws also complete the cabinet ground path.

Parts & Tools

• WPW10730972 / 280187 drain pump assembly (Whirlpool-built Kenmore front loaders)
• Straight-jaw hose clamp pliers for spring clamps

Resources