Kenmore 417 Front-Load Washer Code E21 / EF1: Slow Draining and Clogged Pump
On Kenmore front-load washers whose model numbers start with 417, E21 means the washer drains slowly and EF1 means the drain pump is clogged. Both appear on the standard and the 2014+ digital-display versions. Water stays…
- Code
- E21 / EF1
- Appliance
- Washer
- Brand
- Kenmore
- Warranty
- 30-day workmanship
What E21 / EF1 means
On Kenmore front-load washers whose model numbers start with 417, E21 means the washer drains slowly and EF1 means the drain pump is clogged. Both appear on the standard and the 2014+ digital-display versions. Water stays in the drum, the cycle stalls and you may hear the pump hum or strain. Both codes mean the used water is not leaving the drum, so clothes may be left soaked and heavy after the cycle. The pump may hum or strain.
Common causes of E21 / EF1
- Clog in the house drain or standpipe
- Kinked or clogged drain hose
- Clogged drain pump
- Drain pump that needs replacing
1. Check the washer drain hose for kinks and make sure it is not pushed too far into the standpipe. 2. Clear any clog you can see in the house drain. 3. Unplug the washer before looking at the pump filter, and place towels down. 4. If the water will not drain, call us.
- Whether the clog is in the house plumbing, the hose or the pump
- If the drain path is clear, the pump itself often needs replacing
- We clear what we find before recommending a part
Other Washer codes
Are E21 and EF1 related?
Yes, both involve the drain path. E21 is slow draining and EF1 points to a clogged drain pump, so we clear the hose and house drain first and then look at the pump.
Could coins or lint cause this?
Yes, small items and lint collect at the pump and are a common cause. Pockets are worth checking, and clearing the pump is often a simple fix once we reach it.
Is there standing water to worry about?
Yes. Keep the washer unplugged and dry the area if water starts to spill, and do not run another cycle while the drum is full of water.
Still seeing E21 / EF1?
A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.