Kenmore Washer F21 Code: Meaning & Fixes
- Meaning
- Long drain: the washer took longer than expected to drain the tub.
- Can I fix it?
- Yes, usually a DIY fix
- Also shown as
- F/21, F02
- Seen on
- Whirlpool-built Kenmore front-load washers, including HE2, HE3, HE4 and HE5 models (model numbers usually start with 110). Whirlpool Duet washers use the same code, also shown as F02.
F21 belongs to Kenmore front-loaders built by Whirlpool, usually with a model number starting 110. It’s a long drain code, often shown after Sd or SUD when the washer is fighting too many suds. Kenmore front-loaders built by LG or Electrolux use different drain codes, so check the model number before you follow these steps.
Try this first
- Press Pause/Cancel to clear the code.
- If it won't clear, unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and restart.
- Straighten the drain hose and clear any blockage in the hose, standpipe or laundry sink.
- Use only HE detergent, and no more than the recommended amount.
What causes F21
| Cause | What you notice | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Too many suds | Sd or SUD on the display before F21 | HE detergent only, measured |
| Kinked or blocked drain hose | Water left in the drum | The hose behind the washer and its U-shaped hose form |
| Hose too deep or sealed in the standpipe | Slow drain or siphoning | No more than 4.5 inches inside, not taped |
| Clogged pump filter or coin trap | Humming during drain | On models with a filter: coins, hairpins, socks |
| Failed drain pump | No pump sound with a clear filter | Needs a technician |
Fix it step by step
Tap a step number to tick it off as you go. Ticks stay on this device.
-
Clear and reset
Press Pause/Cancel to clear F21. If it stays, unplug the washer for 5 minutes, plug it back in, reselect the cycle and press Start.
-
Check the drain hose
Straighten any kinks and clear blockages in the hose, drainpipe or laundry sink. Use the U-shaped hose form and secure it. The hose should go no more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe and must not be taped in.
-
Clear the suds
If Sd or SUD appeared, run a rinse cycle with no detergent and switch to HE detergent in the recommended amount.
-
Clean the pump filter
On models with an access panel at the bottom front, put down towels and a shallow pan, drain the water and remove the filter. Clear coins, hairpins, socks or lint, then refit it firmly.
Safety: Let hot water cool first, and unplug the washer before you open the filter.
When to call a technician
If F21 remains after the hose, suds and filter checks, the drain pump or its impeller may be jammed or failed. Contact Kenmore service or a technician.
Questions people ask
Is Kenmore F21 the same as Whirlpool F21 or F9 E1?
F21 on Whirlpool-built Kenmore washers matches Whirlpool's F21 and F02 long drain code. Newer Whirlpool washers report long drains as F9 E1.
My Kenmore washer shows E21, not F21. Is it the same?
No. E21 appears on Electrolux-built Kenmore and Frigidaire washers. It's also a drain fault, but the steps differ by platform.
Why does Sd come up before F21?
Sd or SUD means the washer detected too many suds. Excess suds slow the drain, and if it takes too long the washer reports F21.