F21
Kenmore Long Drain / Drain Timeout

Dishwasher shows F21 and may not drain or may stop at the end of cycle with water remaining.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Partially clogged drain hose, Blocked sump or filter, Weak drain pump, Improper drain hose height causing backflow

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power and close the water supply valve.

  • Clean filters and sump: Remove lower rack and filters. Rinse filters thoroughly and clear any debris from the sump area.
  • Inspect drain hose routing: Ensure the hose has a proper high loop (usually at least 32 inches above the floor) to prevent backflow. Correct any low spots or kinks.
  • Check for clogs: Disconnect the drain hose from the sink or disposer and flush it with water. Remove any obstructions.
  • Evaluate pump performance: If the pump runs but drains slowly even with a clear hose, the pump may be weak and should be replaced.

After reassembly, run a drain/cancel cycle to confirm that water is removed within the normal time.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Drain Pump
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