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Easy — Most homeowners

F21 Whirlpool Washing Machine Easy

Whirlpool F21 Error Code

Long drain time — water isn't draining within the expected timeframe

What Causes the F21 Error?

Clogged drain filter
Kinked or blocked drain hose
Failed drain pump

How to Fix It — Step by Step

Check and clean the drain filter at the bottom front of the machine

Inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs

If the error persists after cleaning, the drain pump may need replacement

Difficulty: Easy

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Part Needed: Drain Pump Assembly

Source the exact replacement part yourself and skip the technician markup.

Find the Drain Pump Assembly on Amazon →

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This error won't fix itself. The part costs less than a diagnostic visit.

Don't wait — a small part failure can cause cascading damage. Order the Drain Pump Assembly and get your Whirlpool washing machine running again today.

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Don't ignore this error code.

Ignoring the F21 error on your Whirlpool washing machine can cause further component damage, higher repair costs, or safety hazards. The fix is straightforward — diagnose, order the part, repair.

Washing Machine Repair Guides

Not Draining

easy · 20-30 minutes

→

Not Spinning

medium · 45-60 minutes

→

Leaking Water

medium · 30-45 minutes

→

Loud Noise During Spin

hard · 1-2 hours

→

View all Washing Machine guides →

Other Whirlpool Error Codes

Oven/Range

Primary control board failure

→ F5E3

Washing Machine

Door lock mechanism error

→ F3E2

Oven/Range

Oven overheating — temperature exceeded safe limits

→ F1E2

Dryer

Motor relay failure

→ F5E1

Dishwasher

Door not latching properly

→ AF

Dryer

Airflow restriction — limited exhaust airflow detected

→ L2

Dryer

Heating system fault — heater relay or component failure

→

Frequently Asked Questions

What does F21 mean on a Whirlpool washing machine?

Long drain time — water isn't draining within the expected timeframe

Can I fix the F21 error on my Whirlpool washing machine myself?

Yes. This repair is rated "Easy" and the part you need is a Drain Pump Assembly. Most homeowners can complete this fix with basic tools. Always disconnect power before starting any repair.

How much does it cost to fix the F21 error on a Whirlpool washing machine?

A service call alone costs $100–200. The Drain Pump Assembly is typically much less when you source it yourself — far cheaper than hiring a pro. You'll save the most by doing the swap yourself.

Dex A. Varland

Master Appliance Technician · 15+ Years Experience

Dex A. Varland is a master appliance technician with 15+ years of hands-on experience across all major brands. He has diagnosed and repaired thousands of household appliances and contributes to TheFixGuide to help homeowners tackle repairs with confidence.

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