Kenmore 110 Front-Load Washer Code F21: Tub did not drain in time
On Kenmore front-loaders whose model numbers begin 110. — a Whirlpool-built platform sold as HE2, HE2 Plus, HE5 and HE5 Steam — F21 means the tub did not empty within 8 minutes. The control watches the…
- Code
- F21
- Appliance
- Washer
- Brand
- Kenmore
- Warranty
- 30-day workmanship
What F21 means
On Kenmore front-loaders whose model numbers begin 110. — a Whirlpool-built platform sold as HE2, HE2 Plus, HE5 and HE5 Steam — F21 means the tub did not empty within 8 minutes. The control watches the drain, and when the water stays put it stops the cycle and shows the code. You will see F21, water standing in the drum and a washer that will not move on to the next step. The same drain problem reads OE on 796 models, E21 on 417 and nd on 402, so check your prefix first.
Common causes of F21
- Clog or restriction somewhere in the drain path
- Large-item filter in the drain pump packed with debris
- Drain pump that does not move water when it is told to run
1. Stop the cycle and look at the drain hose behind the washer for kinks or a crushed bend. 2. Check the standpipe or sink connection for a clog. 3. If the large-item filter behind the lower front panel is reachable without tools, clear it, with a towel and shallow pan ready for water. 4. Run a short drain-only cycle to see whether F21 returns.
- Whether the clog is in the house plumbing or inside the washer
- Whether the drain pump itself still moves water once the filter is clean
- Whether the wiring to the pump is sound, which we confirm before quoting any part
Other Washer codes
Why does my Kenmore 110 front-loader stop on F21 with water inside?
It means the washer could not drain the tub inside 8 minutes. On this Whirlpool-built HE platform the control treats a slow or blocked drain as a stop condition and shows F21 until the water path is clear.
Is F21 the same as OE on my other Kenmore?
The meaning is the same, a drain that did not finish, but the characters change by platform. OE belongs to 796 models, E21 to 417 and nd to 402. Check the model-number prefix on the label.
Can clothes stay in the drum with F21?
Yes, the drum holds water and the door may remain locked. Do not force the door. If the water will not leave after you clear what you can reach, we will test the pump and drain path.
Still seeing F21?
A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.