What Does f21 mean on a kenmore elite washer? Complete Fix Guide for Homeowners

What Does f21 mean on a kenmore elite washer? Learn what it means and follow simple at-home steps to fix the issue without a repairman

F21 Code Popping Up on Your Kenmore Elite Washer? Here’s What to Do

Don’t worry if your Kenmore Elite washer stops abruptly in the middle of the cycle and displays an F21 error. This code merely indicates that the water draining from your machine is taking too long, and it happens more often than you might imagine

This guide breaks down

• What the F21 error really means
• Why it happens
• Step-by-step instructions to fix it on your own

Let’s get started and have your washer running smoothly again — no repair guy needed!

What the F21 Code Means on a Kenmore Elite Washer

When your Kenmore Elite washer shows F21, it’s alerting you to a “long drain time” issue. That means the washer tried to drain but couldn’t do it within its normal time window — usually about 8 minutes

Main Causes of F21 Error Code

Here are the most likely reasons this error appears

• Clogged drain filter (usually filled with debris or lint)
• Blocked drain hose (bent, kinked, or clogged)
• Dirty or jammed drain pump
• Pump motor failure
• Minor control board glitch

How to Fix the F21 Error on Your Kenmore Elite Washer

Below are steps you can follow at home to solve the issue. Most users can do this in under 20 minutes.

Step 1: Power Off & Get Ready

• Unplug the washer from the wall.
• Place towels and a shallow container near the bottom access panel (to catch any water).
• Wear gloves — it might get a little messy.

Step 2: Clean the Drain Filter

• Remove the front access panel
• Locate the drain filter (round knob)
• Slowly turn it counterclockwise to remove it — some water will drain out
• Clean off any lint, coins, or buildup inside
• Rinse and screw it back in

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Hose

• Ensure the hose isn’t bent, twisted, or blocked
• Disconnect it from the back of the washer and flush it out with warm water
• Reconnect it securely

Step 4: Check the Drain Pump (Optional but Helpful)

• If cleaning the hose and filter didn’t help, inspect the drain pump
• Look for blockages inside the impeller
• If the pump isn’t running or sounds strange, it may be faulty

Step 5: Run a Test Cycle

• Plug your washer back in
• Select “Drain & Spin” or “Rinse & Spin.”
• Watch to see if the F21 code returns

If the code doesn’t reappear — great job, your washer is fixed!
If it does, the issue may be electrical or mechanical and may need professional help

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