Frigidaire Washing Machine Error E21
⚡ Quick Answer: The Frigidaire washing machine E21 error indicates a drainage issue, typically caused by a clogged drain hose or a blocked pump filter. This results i... ✅ DIY Fixable
What Does Error E21 Mean?
The Frigidaire washing machine E21 error indicates a drainage issue, typically caused by a clogged drain hose or a blocked pump filter. This results in water remaining in the drum after the drain/spin phase, halting the wash cycle and triggering the error to protect the machine. If you hear a humming sound and see the E21 error code, it’s a sign that the washer is unable to drain properly.
Common Symptoms:
- Water remains in the drum after the drain/spin phase
- Wash cycle halts prematurely
- Error code E21 appears on display when draining is slow or blocked
Possible Causes
- Clogged or obstructed drain hose or drain path (high)
- Blocked pump filter or debris in pump assembly (medium)
- Faulty or failing drain pump (medium)
How to Fix Error E21
DIY Fix Basic Drainage System Checks and Cleaning
- Unplug the washer from the power source for safety.
- Check and straighten the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
- Detach and flush the drain hose to remove visible debris.
- Inspect and clean the pump filter (often accessed behind a front panel).
- Reassemble and run a short drain cycle to verify improvement.
Technician Only Inspect and Replace Drain Pump if Necessary
- Disconnect washer from power and water.
- Remove the access panel to reach the drain pump assembly.
- Check the pump impeller for obstructions and inspect for mechanical failure.
- Replace the drain pump if it fails to operate or is damaged.
- Reassemble and test the washer’s drain cycle.
Parts needed: drain pump assembly
- The error persists after checking and clearing drain hose and pump filter.
- The drain pump hums but does not operate even after clearing debris.
- There are electrical symptoms, unusual noises, or repeated errors during cycles.
Next step
Choose the next step for E21
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drain Pump
Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.
- Typical part-only price
- $35 - $80
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Technical Specifications
| wattage | 60W |
|---|---|
| component | Drain Pump |
| resistance | 10-30 ohms |
| part_number | 137108000 |
| voltage_rating | 120V AC |
Common Questions
What does E21 error mean on Frigidaire washing machine?
E21 indicates a drainage issue, often resulting in water left in the drum and a halted wash cycle.
Can I fix Frigidaire washing machine E21 error myself?
Yes, you can check and clean the drain hose and pump filter for clogs.
How much does it cost to fix E21 error?
Estimated repair costs range from $70 to $180, depending on parts and labor.
When should I call a technician for E21?
Call a technician if the error persists after cleaning or if the pump is humming but not functioning.
Data last verified: 2026-07-25
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