Electrolux Washing Machine: drain error

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a drain error with your Electrolux washing machine? This issue often manifests when your washer fails to drain water during a cycle, displaying error codes like E20, E21, or C2. The problem could stem from a clogged drain pump, an obstruction in the household drain, or a faulty drain pump motor. Let's explore how to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

  • Electrolux error codes E20/E21/C2 often specifically indicate drain or pump blockage issues.
  • Power cycling machine for 1–2 hours may reset bimetal pump protection if pump overheated due to block.

Possible Causes

Clogged drain pump or pump filter

How to Identify: Water remains in tub; debris visible in pump filter or blockage found inside pump.

Part: Drain pump / pump filter

External drain or household drain clog

How to Identify: Water backs up into machine; other fixtures slow draining.

Part: Household drain / standpipe

Faulty drain pump motor or electrical issue

How to Identify: No pump noise during drain cycle; error persists after clearing clogs.

Part: Drain pump motor

Sensor or control board fault

How to Identify: Error persists despite clearing all obstructions and correct operation of drain components.

Part: Control electronics / sensors

DIY Solutions

Clean drain pump filter and pump area

Moderate 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, towels
  1. Turn off and unplug washing machine.
  2. Locate and open drain pump access panel (usually front bottom).
  3. Place a towel/bucket under and slowly open pump filter cap to drain water.
  4. Remove debris and small objects from filter and pump housing.
  5. Close filter, reassemble panel, and run a drain/quick cycle to test.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is unplugged before opening access panel.

Straighten and clear drain hose

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: bucket, flashlight
  1. Unplug machine and pull away from wall.
  2. Inspect drain hose for kinks or bends.
  3. Disconnect hose from machine and drain into bucket.
  4. Use a flexible brush or water to flush debris from hose.
  5. Reconnect securely and test drain function.
⚠️ Safety First: Keep area dry to prevent slips.

Check household drain and standpipe

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: none or plunger
  1. Observe if water backs up into washer drain.
  2. Clear clog in home drain/standpipe with plunger or snake.
  3. Run washer drain cycle again.
⚠️ Safety First: Use appropriate protective gloves if clearing clogs.

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump assembly

Estimated Cost: $60–$180

Diagnose and replace control board/sensors

Estimated Cost: $150–$400

When to Call a Professional

No water drains after clearing filter, hose, and drain pipe.
Pump makes unusual noises or does not operate at all.
Electronic control issues suspected (error persists after mechanical fixes).

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain pump filter: Clogs leading to drain errors.
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect drain hose: Kinks and buildup blocking water flow.
    Frequency: every 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Washing Machine drain error?
Common causes include a clogged drain pump, household drain clog, or a faulty drain pump motor.
How do I fix Electrolux Washing Machine drain error myself?
You can clean the drain pump filter, straighten the drain hose, or check the household drain for clogs.
How much does it cost to fix drain error?
Professional repairs range from $60 to $180 for the drain pump or $150 to $400 for control board issues.
When should I call a technician for drain error?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you're dealing with complex electrical problems, contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain hose or pump filter
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Blocked or kinked drain hose

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain hose and pump filter. Disconnect the washing machine from power, remove the drain hose, and inspect for blockages. Clean the pump filter located at the bottom front of the machine. Reconnect everything and test the machine.

  2. Inspect and replace the drain pump if necessary. If the pump is not functioning, it may need to be replaced. Disconnect the power, remove the access panel, and replace the pump with a new one if it's defective.

  3. Check for kinks or blockages in the drain hose. Ensure the hose is properly positioned and not bent or obstructed. If it is damaged, replace it with a new hose.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Electrolux ultimate care 700 e20 error code

Community Discussions

E20 error code during drain cycle with water still in drum

Cleared fluff from the pipe hose, which resolved the drain issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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