If your Whirlpool washer has an F21 error code, it indicates that your washer has a drainage problem. The good news is the issue can usually be resolved by simply clearing the drain filter or drain hose. However, if the error persists, the drain pump and pressure switch will likely need to be tested with a multimeter to determine if the part is defective and needs to be replaced. If you need to resolve the error code quickly, performing a reset should provide a temporary fix.
The following guide applies to most Whirlpool washers, including the following models:
2LA5700XMW0
2LA5700XMW1
2LSR5233BN0
2LSR5233BQ1
2LSR5233BW0
2LSR5233BZ1
LSC8244EQ0
LSC8244EQ1
LSC8244EZ0
LSC8244EZ1
LSR6132EQ0
LSR6132EZ0
LSR7233EQ0
LSR7233EW0
LSR7233EZ0
LSR8233EQ0
LSR8233EZ0
LSR8244EQ0
LSR8244EQ1
LSR8244EZ0
LSR8244EZ1
The most common causes of the F21 error code are:
Other less common causes include:
If you want to clear the error code quickly, you can either try pressing Pause/Cancel two times or perform a reset. To reset the washer, disconnect the power to the washer for 1 minute. When you reconnect the power, the error code should have cleared.
Sometimes, an error code is caused by a glitch. If the power is disconnected, the glitch will be fixed, and the washer should work normally again. However, if it is not a glitch, disconnecting the power may clear the error, but the problem will remain. Therefore, even if you resolve the error code, you should still check for drainage problems and fix the issue to avoid causing more serious damage to the washer or your laundry.
If the washer will not drain, the drain hose may be kinked, pinched, or obstructed by a small object. It is also possible that the drain hose outlet has been submerged in water, which would restrict the washer’s draining ability. Another thing to check is that the drain hose is installed correctly.
The drain hose may be connected to a spigot on the waste pipe or a waste trap or to a standpipe. How the drain hose should be installed can depend on the model and type of connection you have. Check the washer’s manual for the specifications needed for your hose to work correctly.
If the drain hose cannot be unclogged or connected properly, it will need to be replaced.
Check the drain hose:
To remove and unclog the drain hose:
If the drain hose is not blocked, a defective drain pump or a clogged drain filter may be causing the issue. The drain pump and drain filter usually become clogged due to small foreign objects, like an article of clothing, coins, or bobby pins. The pump’s impeller can also wear out or break and obstruct or damage the pump. If an impeller is broken, the pump should be replaced to ensure it works correctly. If the impeller is not damaged and the pump is not blocked or being obstructed, it may have failed electrically. To determine if the pump is defective, the pump’s motor will need to be tested for continuity (a continuous electrical path) with a multimeter.
Many Whirlpool washers have a drain filter connected to the drain pump. Like the drain pump, small items can end up in the drain filter and restrict the washer’s ability to drain. Once you remove the access panel, the drain filter should be easy to locate and clear. After clearing the drain filter, check the pump as well for obstructions or damage.
Access to the drain pump and filter will depend on your model. If you have a top-loader washer, you will likely need to place the washer on its back so that you can access the drain pump and filter underneath the washer. If you have a front-loader washer, you will likely need to remove an access panel at the back or front of the washer. Check the washer’s manual for the location of the drain pump and filter for your specific washer.
To check the drain pump and filter:
If clearing the filter and drain pump fails to fix the error code, you may need to check the drain pump motor with a multimeter to determine if it is faulty and needs to be replaced. With the multimeter probes touched to the terminals on the pump, the pump should read 5-10 ohms, depending on the model. If the reading is zero or infinity, the pump will need to be replaced.
While you have the access panel removed, check that the pressure switch is not causing the issue.
The pressure switch or water level control determines how much water is in the tub to tell the control panel whether the tub needs to be filled or emptied. The location of the pressure switch can vary depending on your model. Check the washer’s manual for the location of the switch. The pressure switch is usually round with a wiring harness connected to the back of the switch.
To check the pressure switch with a multimeter:
If the pressure switch fails any of these tests, it will need to be replaced.
Hopefully, these instructions have fixed the drainage issue and the error code has been resolved. If the error code persists, you may need to get a trained professional to check that the control board is not defective and causing the issue.
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