Whirlpool Error Code F21: What It Means and How to Resolve It

The Whirlpool F21 error code typically appears when your washing machine's drum is draining water too slowly. This issue is commonly caused by a problem with the drain pump or drain hose, though other parts of your washer could also be responsible for the slow drainage.

Possible culprits include issues with your control board, which may be sending or receiving incorrect signals, or a malfunctioning water level pressure switch that gives the wrong readings. Your washing machine has many moving components that could potentially fail, making it important to investigate the root cause carefully.

If you’re facing this error code, try the solutions listed below. If you're still unable to resolve the issue, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. RightFix can assist with diagnosing and fixing your Whirlpool washing machine so it drains properly.

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Whirlpool Washer Error Code F21: Common Causes and Fixes

If your washer displays the F21 error code, don’t worry—this issue has several potential causes, and they all come with solutions.

Clogged Drain Pump

The drain pump removes water from your washer’s drum through the drain hose. If the pump is clogged with debris like lint or foreign objects, it won’t be able to drain the water, leaving your machine filled with dirty water.

To fix this, you’ll need to disassemble the pump and manually clear any blockages. Once cleaned, flush the pump with hot water to remove any remaining debris. If you're not comfortable dismantling parts of your washer, it's a good idea to call a professional to assist you. After reassembling the pump, run a full wash cycle to ensure the water drains properly.

Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose is responsible for transferring dirty water from your washer to your home’s drain system. If the hose becomes blocked with debris, water can’t flow through it, and your washer will end up with water still in the drum.

To fix this, clear the drain hose of any blockages. However, be careful when attempting to clear it yourself, as pushing debris into the pump may make the problem worse. Here’s how you can do it properly:

• Disconnect the hose from your washer, placing towels and a basin underneath to catch any water that may spill out.
• Use a snake or similar tool to clear any debris from the hose.
• After the hose is clear, securely reattach it to the washer.
• Run a “drain” cycle to check if the water drains properly. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to call in a professional to help resolve the issue.

Control Board Malfunction

The control board manages the various functions of your washing machine, including cycle transitions, temperature settings, and spin speed. If the F21 error appears, the control board may be sending or receiving incorrect signals.

Control board repairs can be quite complicated, and it’s best to contact an expert to handle this issue.

Faulty Water Level Pressure Switch

The water level pressure switch detects whether the drum is empty or full, sending this information to the control board. If the switch is faulty, it could incorrectly signal that the drum is empty when it is actually full, leading to improper drainage.

If this is the problem, the switch likely needs to be replaced, so it's best to call a professional for repairs.

Twisted Drain Hose

Sometimes, the drain hose isn’t clogged, but rather twisted or pinched. This prevents the water from being properly pumped out.

To fix this, check the hose for any kinks or bends and straighten them out. If the hose appears damaged, replacing it may be necessary, as a twisted or broken hose can continue to block water flow.

General Plumbing Problems

If you notice other drains in your home are also slow to drain, the issue may not be with your washing machine, but with your plumbing. In this case, it's worth contacting a plumber to check for any blockages or plumbing issues that may be affecting multiple drains.

Need Help with the F21 Error Code on Your Whirlpool Washer?

If you’re dealing with frustrating error codes and drainage problems, RightFix is here to fix your washer. Our team of experienced appliance professionals specializes in washing machine repairs. We’ll quickly diagnose the issue and get your Whirlpool washer draining normally again. Contact us online or by phone to schedule your repair appointment today!

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