KitchenAid Washing Machine Error F21
⚡ Quick Answer: The KitchenAid washing machine error F21 indicates a drain pump issue. This error occurs when the washer fails to drain water within the expected time... ✅ DIY Fixable
What Does Error F21 Mean?
The KitchenAid washing machine error F21 indicates a drain pump issue. This error occurs when the washer fails to drain water within the expected timeframe, often leading to water remaining in the drum. Symptoms include a loud humming sound during the drain cycle, prolonged drain times, or the machine halting mid-cycle. Common causes include a blocked drain path or a failing drain pump assembly.
Common Symptoms:
- F21 is displayed during or after a wash cycle when the machine attempts to drain water.
- Water remains in the drum instead of being pumped out properly.
- Drain cycle takes significantly longer than normal or fails to complete.
- Washer may stop mid‑cycle and not proceed to spin.
Possible Causes
- Blocked or partially obstructed drain path (pump filter or drain hose) (medium)
- Failing or seized drain pump assembly (medium)
How to Fix Error F21
DIY Fix Inspect and clear drain filter and hose
- Unplug the washer from power.
- Locate the drain pump filter access cover on the lower front of the washer.
- Place towels and a shallow pan under the access to catch residual water.
- Open the filter cap and remove any lint, debris, coins, or obstructions.
- Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages and straighten or flush as needed.
- Reassemble and restore power, then run a drain/spin cycle to test.
Technician Only Diagnose and replace faulty drain pump assembly
- Verify power is disconnected and remove the washer’s lower front access panel.
- Inspect the drain pump impeller for mechanical binding or damage.
- Test the pump motor for proper electrical operation with a multimeter.
- Replace the entire drain pump assembly if it is seized, noisy, or not moving water effectively.
- Reinstall components and run a full cycle to confirm resolution.
Parts needed: Drain pump assembly, Hose clamps or replacement hoses if damaged
- If the error persists after clearing blockages and checking hoses.
- If water is not draining at all even when manually initiated in a drain/spin cycle.
- If you are not comfortable accessing pump and internal components safely.
Next step
Choose the next step for F21
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 | 50W |
|---|---|
| component | Drain Pump |
| resistance | 10-30 ohms |
| part_number | W10730972 |
| voltage_rating | 120V AC |
Common Questions
What does F21 error mean on KitchenAid washing machine?
F21 error indicates a drain pump issue, often causing water to remain in the drum.
Can I fix KitchenAid washing machine F21 error myself?
Yes, you can check and clear the drain filter and hose as a DIY fix.
How much does it cost to fix F21 error?
Repair costs for the F21 error typically range from $50 to $200, depending on parts and labor.
When should I call a technician for F21?
Call a technician if the error persists after clearing blockages or if you're uncomfortable accessing internal components.
Data last verified: 2026-07-26
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