F21
KitchenAid
Long Drain Time
Washer-dryer stops with water in the drum and shows F21; drain cycle takes too long or fails.
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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
Clogged drain pump filter, obstructed drain hose, partially blocked standpipe, failing drain pump motor
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the unit and be prepared for water spillage when opening the drain system.
- Access and clean pump filter: Remove the lower front access panel. Place towels and a shallow pan under the pump. Slowly open the pump clean-out cap to drain water. Remove lint, coins, and debris from the filter and pump housing.
- Inspect drain hose: Check the entire length of the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or freezing (in cold climates). Detach from the standpipe and flush with water to ensure it is clear.
- Check standpipe: Ensure the household drain is not blocked. A slow house drain can cause F21. Clear any obstruction in the standpipe.
- Test pump operation: With the unit unplugged, spin the pump impeller by hand. If stiff, noisy, or loose on the shaft, replace the drain pump assembly. If you can safely power the pump during a diagnostic mode, listen for abnormal noise.
- Reassemble and test: Refit the filter cap tightly, reinstall the access panel, restore power, and run a drain/spin cycle to verify proper drainage.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Drain Pump Assembly
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