Kenmore washer F21 error code
- Washer
Kenmore washer F21 means the drain cycle exceeded its time limit — water is leaving too slowly or not at all. Front-load Kenmore washers share this code with Whirlpool-platform models. The pump filter (coin trap) and drain hose routing cause most F21 errors; the drain pump itself fails less often on machines under ten years old.
Reviewed August 2025 · sources below
Safe to keep using?
Use caution
This issue may worsen during use — limit operation and address promptly.
- • Turn off the water supply before disconnecting hoses.
5 product recalls may apply
Brand-level matches — verify your model.
Show
5 product recalls may apply
Brand-level matches — verify your model.
- Notice
Dishwasher Recalled by Whirlpool
May 1996 · Confirm your model
- Notice
CPSC And Amana Work To Fix Refrigerator Shock Hazard
Nov 1994 · Confirm your model
- Notice
Certain Sears Kenmore Dishwashers May Pose Fire Hazard
Feb 1993 · Confirm your model
- Notice
Propane Grills Modification Kits by Sunbeam Leisure
Jun 1988 · Confirm your model
- Notice
Kenmore Canister Vacuum Cleaners Recalled by Sears
Jun 1987 · Confirm your model
Next step
Still seeing F21?
Show a photo or describe the symptom. Answer a few safety-first questions and see whether a part is needed.
Free guided checks · No account required · Don’t open live electrical, gas, or refrigerant equipment
How to fix F21
- Unplug the washer and locate the pump filter behind the lower front panel — place towels under the access door.
- Drain into a pan, remove the filter, and clear debris from the pump impeller.
- Inspect the drain hose for kinks and confirm it is not inserted more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe.
- Reinstall the filter, restore power, and run Drain & Spin with an empty tub.
- If F21 persists, test the drain pump — humming with no flow means a failed pump.
Call a pro when: Call a pro if water leaks from the filter after install or the tub still holds water after pump replacement.
What F21 means
Long drain — water not draining in time.
Video: how to fix F21
Buy the replacement part
Likely causes
Many codes resolve with cleaning, resetting, or reconnecting.
Check: Power-cycle the appliance and check for obvious blockages or loose connections.
Est. cost: $0–$0
Wear or electrical failure of an internal part.
Check: If basic checks fail, the faulty component likely needs replacement.
Est. cost: $0–$75
Guided repair checklist
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0 of 5 checks recorded
Recommended next action
Start with this check before considering replacement parts.
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Unplug the washer and locate the pump filter behind the lower front panel — place towels under the access door.
Did the repair resolve the issue?
Restoring repair progress…
Questions about F21
What does F21 mean on a Kenmore washer?
F21 is a long-drain fault — the washer could not empty the tub in time.
How do I reset Kenmore F21?
Clear the drain path, unplug for 5 minutes, and run a spin cycle. F21 clears after successful drainage.
Do I need a pump for F21?
Clean the filter first — replace the pump only if it fails to move water after the path is clear.
Is F21 the same on Whirlpool washers?
Yes — Whirlpool-platform front-load washers use F21 for the same drain timeout fault.
Kenmore F21 on specific models
Other Kenmore Washer codes
Prevent this problem next time
- Follow manufacturer maintenance schedule
- Address small issues before they worsen
Sources
Manufacturer meaning
Long drain — water not draining in time.
FixApplianceCode guidance
Start with basic checks for Kenmore F21 before ordering parts.
Source type: Part database
Source: ModelPartFinder + FixApplianceCode editorial
Last reviewed: 2026-10-23
Repair guidance is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee that any fix will resolve your issue, and you assume all risk when following these steps. Terms & disclaimer
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