F21Medium severityEasy to fix
F21 — Long Drain / Drain Fault
The washer is taking too long to drain water, signalling a drainage restriction.
- Applies to
- Whirlpool appliances
- Est. repair cost
- $0 – $200
- Time to fix
- 30-60 minutes
What it means
The F21 fault appears when the machine cannot pump water out within the expected time, commonly caused by a clogged pump filter or kinked hose.
Symptoms
- Washer stops mid-cycle with standing water
- F21 shown on display
- Drum full of water that will not drain
How to fix it
- 1
Clean the drain pump filter
30 minutes1. Unplug the washer. 2. Open the lower access panel. 3. Remove and clean the pump filter of debris and lint. 4. Check the drain hose for kinks. 5. Reassemble and run a rinse/drain cycle.
Frequently asked questions
Is F21 serious?
Usually not. It is most often a simple clog you can clear yourself. If it recurs, the drain pump may need replacing.
Last updated July 13, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.