F21
What code F21 means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: LOW
Kenmore F21 means: Will not drain. The documented cause is: The washer failed to drain within 8 minutes. Check the washer drain path for a clog or restriction. Clear the large item filter in the drain pump.
What F21 means
Will not drain
The display shows F21 and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| The washer failed to drain within 8 minutes |
| Check the washer drain path for a clog or restriction |
| Clear the large item filter in the drain pump |
| If the drain pump doesn't drain the water when activated, replace it |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. Water and mains electricity sit centimetres apart inside a washing machine. If the drum still holds water, drain it from the filter first — it can be scalding.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
Find a specialist
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Frequently asked questions
What does F21 mean on a Kenmore?
Will not drain The documented cause is: The washer failed to drain within 8 minutes. Check the washer drain path for a clog or restriction. Clear the large item filter in the drain pump. If the drain pump doesn't drain the water when activated, replace it
Can I fix F21 myself?
It depends on the part involved: The washer failed to drain within 8 minutes. Check the washer drain path for a clog or restriction. Clear the large item filter in the drain pump. If the drain pump doesn't drain the water when activated, replace it Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 142 other codes for Kenmore on this washing machines. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.