Washer displays F21 and will not drain or complete spin, often with water remaining in tub

Safety first: Unplug the washer and turn off water supply. Have towels and a shallow pan ready for water drainage.

Step-by-step checks:

• 1. Verify house drain: Make sure the standpipe or sink drain is not clogged. A slow household drain can cause F21.
• 2. Inspect drain hose: Pull the washer out slightly and check the entire length of the drain hose for kinks, pinches, or clogs at the end.
• 3. Access pump and filter: Remove the lower front access panel. Place a pan under the pump and slowly open the pump clean-out cap to drain water.
• 4. Clean debris: Remove lint, coins, hairpins, and other debris from the pump filter and housing. Check the pump impeller for damage or obstructions.
• 5. Check tub-to-pump hose: Remove the large rubber hose from the tub to the pump and inspect for socks or small garments lodged inside.
• 6. Test pump operation: After reassembly, plug in the washer and run a drain/spin cycle. Listen for the pump running. If it hums but does not move water, the pump may be failing.

When to call a technician: If cleaning does not resolve F21 or the pump is noisy and weak, replacement of the drain pump assembly is recommended.