Whirlpool Washer F21 Error: Troubleshooting and Solutions

The dreaded F21 error code on your Whirlpool washing machine can be a frustrating experience. It usually signifies a problem with the washer’s drain system or water flow, preventing it from completing its cycle. This error code essentially means the washer is taking too long to drain. Fortunately, in many cases, you can troubleshoot and resolve the F21 error yourself, saving you the cost of a service call. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the common causes of the F21 error and provide detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix the issue.

Understanding the Whirlpool Washer F21 Error

The F21 error code on a Whirlpool washer indicates a slow or nonexistent drain. The washer’s control board monitors the drain time, and if it exceeds a certain threshold (typically 8 minutes), the F21 error is displayed. This isn’t necessarily a component failure; it often points to a blockage or restriction in the drain path. Understanding this crucial detail helps in narrowing down the possible causes and focusing your troubleshooting efforts.

Common Causes of the F21 Error

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, let’s identify the most common culprits behind the F21 error:

* **Clogged Drain Pump Filter:** This is the most frequent cause. The drain pump filter is designed to catch lint, debris, and small objects that might otherwise clog the drain pump itself. Over time, this filter can become heavily clogged, restricting water flow.
* **Blocked Drain Hose:** The drain hose carries the wastewater from the washer to the drainpipe. Kinks, twists, or obstructions within the hose can impede drainage.
* **Clogged Drainpipe:** The drainpipe where the drain hose connects can also become clogged with hair, soap scum, or other debris. This blockage prevents the washer from draining properly.
* **Faulty Drain Pump:** While less common than clogs, a malfunctioning drain pump can also cause the F21 error. The pump might be weak, partially blocked internally, or completely failed.
* **Air Lock in the Drain System:** An air lock can prevent water from flowing freely through the drain hose. This is more likely to occur if the drain hose is not properly positioned or if the drainpipe is partially blocked.
* **Obstructed Impeller:** The drain pump contains an impeller, which is a rotating fan-like component that pushes water through the pump. If a small object, such as a sock or a button, gets lodged in the impeller, it can significantly reduce the pump’s efficiency.
* **Siphon Effect:** In some cases, an improperly installed drain hose can create a siphon effect, where water is continuously drawn out of the washer during the wash cycle. This can interfere with the draining process and trigger the F21 error. This typically happens if the drain hose is pushed in too far, or not properly secured to the drain pipe.
* **Control Board Issue (Rare):** In very rare cases, a faulty control board can misinterpret sensor readings or incorrectly trigger the F21 error. This is usually the last thing to suspect and should be considered only after all other potential causes have been ruled out.

Troubleshooting Steps for the Whirlpool Washer F21 Error

Now that we’ve covered the common causes, let’s move on to the troubleshooting steps. Follow these instructions carefully and systematically to identify and resolve the F21 error on your Whirlpool washer.

**Safety First:** Before starting any troubleshooting, always disconnect the washer from the power outlet to prevent electrical shock. Also, turn off the water supply to the washer to avoid any accidental flooding.

**Tools You Might Need:**

* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
* Pliers
* Towels or absorbent cloths
* Bucket or container to catch water
* Flashlight
* Wire coat hanger or drain snake
* Gloves
* Eye protection

**Step 1: Check the Drain Hose for Kinks and Obstructions**

1. **Inspect the Drain Hose:** Carefully examine the entire length of the drain hose, looking for any kinks, twists, or sharp bends. Straighten out any kinks you find.
2. **Detach the Drain Hose:** Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Place a bucket underneath the connection points to catch any residual water.
3. **Inspect for Obstructions:** Look through the drain hose to see if you can spot any visible obstructions. Use a flashlight to get a better view. Remove any debris you find.
4. **Flush the Drain Hose:** Connect a garden hose to one end of the drain hose and flush it with water to dislodge any remaining debris. Make sure the water flows freely through the hose.
5. **Reattach the Drain Hose:** Reconnect the drain hose to the washer and the drainpipe, ensuring that the connections are secure.

**Step 2: Check the Drainpipe for Clogs**

1. **Inspect the Drainpipe Opening:** Examine the drainpipe opening where the drain hose connects. Look for any visible obstructions, such as hair, soap scum, or debris.
2. **Use a Drain Snake or Wire Coat Hanger:** If you see any obstructions, use a drain snake or a straightened wire coat hanger to try to dislodge them. Gently insert the tool into the drainpipe and rotate it to break up the clog.
3. **Flush the Drainpipe:** After removing any visible obstructions, flush the drainpipe with water to ensure that it is clear. You can use a garden hose or a bucket of water.

**Step 3: Clean the Drain Pump Filter**

This is the most critical step, as a clogged drain pump filter is the most common cause of the F21 error.

1. **Locate the Drain Pump Filter:** The location of the drain pump filter varies depending on the Whirlpool washer model. In most front-load washers, it’s located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. For top-load washers, it may be located inside the cabinet, near the bottom.
2. **Prepare for Water Spillage:** Place a bucket or container underneath the access panel to catch any water that may spill out when you remove the filter. Have plenty of towels handy.
3. **Open the Access Panel:** Use a screwdriver or your fingers to open the access panel. Some panels may require you to unscrew them, while others simply pop open.
4. **Remove the Drain Plug (if applicable):** Some models have a small drain plug near the filter. Carefully remove the plug to drain any remaining water from the pump housing. Be prepared for a significant amount of water to come out.
5. **Remove the Drain Pump Filter:** Once the water has drained, carefully remove the drain pump filter. It usually twists or pulls out. Be prepared for more water to spill out.
6. **Clean the Filter:** Thoroughly clean the drain pump filter under running water. Remove any lint, debris, coins, buttons, or other objects that may be clogging it. Use a brush or your fingers to scrub the filter clean.
7. **Inspect the Filter Housing:** While the filter is removed, inspect the inside of the filter housing for any remaining debris. Use a flashlight to get a better view. Remove any obstructions you find.
8. **Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter:** Carefully reinstall the drain pump filter, ensuring that it is properly seated and secured. Twist it until it locks into place.
9. **Replace the Drain Plug (if applicable):** If your model has a drain plug, reinstall it and tighten it securely.
10. **Close the Access Panel:** Close the access panel and secure it with screws or by snapping it back into place.

**Step 4: Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller**

1. **Access the Drain Pump:** You may need to remove the front or back panel of the washer to access the drain pump. Consult your washer’s service manual for specific instructions on how to access the pump.
2. **Visually Inspect the Impeller:** Once you have access to the drain pump, visually inspect the impeller for any obstructions. Look for small objects, such as socks, buttons, or coins, that may be lodged in the impeller.
3. **Rotate the Impeller:** Try to rotate the impeller by hand. It should rotate freely. If it is difficult to rotate or feels stuck, there is likely an obstruction.
4. **Remove Obstructions:** Carefully remove any obstructions that you find in the impeller. You may need to use pliers or a small screwdriver to dislodge them.
5. **Reinstall the Drain Pump:** Once you have removed any obstructions, reinstall the drain pump and secure it with screws or clips.
6. **Reassemble the Washer:** Reassemble the washer by replacing the front or back panel.

**Step 5: Check for Air Lock in the Drain System**

1. **Lower the Drain Hose:** Temporarily lower the drain hose to the floor, allowing any trapped air to escape. Make sure to have a bucket or container underneath the hose to catch any water that may drain out.
2. **Raise the Drain Hose:** After a few minutes, raise the drain hose back to its normal position, ensuring that it is properly secured to the drainpipe.
3. **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short test cycle to see if the F21 error has been resolved. If the washer drains properly, the air lock has been cleared.

**Step 6: Check the Siphon Break (if applicable)**

Some Whirlpool washers have a siphon break built into the drain hose or drainpipe connection. This device prevents the siphon effect from occurring.

1. **Locate the Siphon Break:** The siphon break is typically a small plastic or metal device located near the drain hose connection.
2. **Inspect the Siphon Break:** Inspect the siphon break for any obstructions or damage. Make sure that it is properly connected and functioning correctly.
3. **Clean or Replace the Siphon Break:** If the siphon break is clogged or damaged, clean it or replace it with a new one.

**Step 7: Test the Drain Pump (Advanced)**

*This step requires some electrical knowledge and should only be performed if you are comfortable working with electrical components.*

1. **Access the Drain Pump:** As in Step 4, you’ll need to remove the front or back panel to access the drain pump. Consult your washer’s service manual for specific instructions.
2. **Disconnect the Drain Pump Wiring:** Disconnect the electrical connectors from the drain pump.
3. **Test the Drain Pump with a Multimeter:** Use a multimeter to test the drain pump for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the terminals on the drain pump. A reading of between 5 and 15 ohms typically indicates a good pump. A reading of 0 ohms (short circuit) or infinite ohms (open circuit) indicates a faulty pump.
4. **Apply Direct Voltage to the Drain Pump (Caution):** You can also test the drain pump by applying direct voltage to it. *Use extreme caution when performing this test, as you will be working with live electricity.* Connect the drain pump to a 120-volt power source using jumper wires. If the pump runs, it is likely working. If it does not run, it is faulty.
5. **Replace the Drain Pump:** If the drain pump is faulty, replace it with a new one.

**Step 8: Check the Water Inlet Valves (Less Common, But Possible)**

While the F21 error directly relates to draining, a severely restricted water inlet can *indirectly* contribute to the problem. If the washer isn’t filling correctly, it might not register the correct water level, potentially affecting the drain cycle timing.

1. **Locate the Water Inlet Valves:** These are typically at the back of the washing machine where the water supply hoses connect.
2. **Inspect the Inlet Valve Screens:** Disconnect the water supply hoses. Inside the inlet valve connections, you’ll find small screens. These can become clogged with sediment and restrict water flow. Clean them thoroughly.
3. **Test the Inlet Valves (Advanced):** Using a multimeter, you can test the solenoid coils within the inlet valves for continuity. A lack of continuity indicates a faulty valve that might need replacement.

**Step 9: Reset the Washer**

Sometimes, a simple reset can clear the F21 error.

1. **Unplug the Washer:** Disconnect the washer from the power outlet for at least 1 minute.
2. **Plug the Washer Back In:** Reconnect the washer to the power outlet.
3. **Run a Test Cycle:** Run a short test cycle to see if the F21 error has been resolved.

**Step 10: Check the Pressure Switch and Air Hose (Advanced)**

The pressure switch monitors the water level in the washer. A faulty pressure switch or a blocked air hose connected to it can cause incorrect water level readings, potentially contributing to draining problems and, in rare cases, the F21 error.

1. **Locate the Pressure Switch:** The pressure switch is usually located near the top of the washer cabinet. You may need to remove the top panel to access it.
2. **Inspect the Air Hose:** The air hose connects the pressure switch to the bottom of the washer tub. Check the hose for kinks, cracks, or clogs. Disconnect the hose from the pressure switch and blow through it to ensure it is clear.
3. **Test the Pressure Switch (Advanced):** Using a multimeter, you can test the pressure switch for continuity. The switch should have continuity in one position (e.g., empty) and no continuity in another position (e.g., full). Consult your washer’s service manual for specific testing instructions.

**Step 11: Control Board (Last Resort)**

If you have tried all the above steps and the F21 error persists, the control board may be faulty. However, replacing the control board is a costly repair and should only be considered as a last resort. It’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician to confirm the diagnosis before replacing the control board. The control board can be expensive, and misdiagnosing the problem leads to unnecessary costs.

Preventing Future F21 Errors

To minimize the risk of encountering the F21 error in the future, follow these preventive measures:

* **Regularly Clean the Drain Pump Filter:** Clean the drain pump filter at least every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items.
* **Avoid Overloading the Washer:** Overloading the washer can put extra strain on the drain pump and increase the risk of clogs.
* **Use the Correct Amount of Detergent:** Using too much detergent can lead to excessive suds, which can interfere with the draining process.
* **Check Pockets Before Washing:** Always check pockets for coins, buttons, and other small objects before washing clothes.
* **Inspect the Drain Hose Regularly:** Inspect the drain hose for kinks, twists, or damage. Replace the hose if necessary.
* **Consider a Lint Trap:** If you have a lot of lint in your laundry, consider using a lint trap in the drainpipe to catch excess lint.

When to Call a Professional

If you have followed all the troubleshooting steps and the F21 error persists, or if you are not comfortable performing any of the advanced troubleshooting steps, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. A technician has the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair complex washer problems.

Documenting Your Troubleshooting

Before calling a technician, it’s helpful to document the steps you’ve already taken. This will save the technician time and may help them diagnose the problem more quickly. Make notes on what you’ve checked, what you’ve cleaned, and any observations you’ve made. Include the model number of your washer.

Conclusion

The Whirlpool washer F21 error can be a nuisance, but with a systematic approach and careful troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By understanding the common causes of the error and following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself time and money. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you are unsure about any of the troubleshooting steps. With a little patience and effort, you can get your Whirlpool washer back up and running smoothly.