Whirlpool Duet Washer F21 Error Code Fix: Long Drain (DIY Guide)

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Note: This guide is based on verified repair protocols. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The washer stops with water still in the drum, flashing F21. This code stands for “Long Drain”. It means the washer tried to pump the water out for 8 minutes but couldn’t finish the job.

⚠️ Don’t Buy a Pump Yet! In 80% of F21 cases, the drain pump is actually fine. The problem is usually a clogged debris filter. A baby sock, a coin, or a bra wire is likely stuck inside the filter housing, blocking the flow. Check this first!

The Fix: You need to manually drain the water, unscrew the filter, and remove the blockage. If the filter is clean but F21 persists, then the pump motor has failed.

🎥 The Repair Video

Watch this guide to see how to access the bottom filter. You will need to remove the lower front panel (toe panel).

Note from Steve: Jump to 0:58 to see the critical step where he unscrews the filter cap. Notice how he places a towel underneath to catch the residual water—don’t skip this!

🛒 Parts & Tools Checklist

If you clean the filter and the pump still hums but won’t drain, the impeller is broken. You need a new pump.

  • The Part (Drain Pump Assembly):
    👉 Check Price for OEM Drain Pump (W10130913)
    (Note: This is the standard pump for most older Duet models. Check your model number to confirm.)
  • Essential Tool (Torx/Nut Driver):
    T-20 Torx Driver
    (Required to remove the 3 screws on the bottom toe panel.)
  • Cleanup Tool:
    Shop-Vac (Wet/Dry)
    (The easiest way to suck the water out through the drain hose before opening the filter.)

💧 Step 1: Emergency Drain

Unplug the washer. You must get the water out before opening the machine.

  1. Use Gravity: Pull the washer forward. Tilt it back and slide a wooden block under the front feet.
  2. Drain Hose: Place the grey drain hose into a bucket. Since the bucket is lower than the tub, gravity should empty most of the water.
  3. Shop Vac Tip: If you have a wet-vac, suction the end of the drain hose to pull the water out faster.

🧦 Step 2: Check the “Coin Trap”

This is where the magic happens.

  1. Remove Panel: Unscrew the bottom toe panel (usually 3 Torx screws).
  2. Locate Pump: In the middle, you will see a white round cap handle.
  3. Unscrew: Place a towel under it. Turn the handle counter-clockwise.
  4. Inspect: Pull the debris filter out. Remove any coins, lint, hair, or socks found inside. Rinse the filter in the sink.
💡 Steve’s Diagnosis Tip: Reach your finger into the pump housing hole. Can you spin the little propeller (impeller) at the back? It should spin with a little magnetic resistance (bouncy feel). If it spins loosely or is completely stuck, the pump motor is dead.

🔄 Step 3: Reset and Test

If you found debris, reinstall the filter and run a test.

  1. Screw the filter cap back on tightly (don’t cross-thread it!).
  2. Plug the washer in.
  3. Select “Rinse & Spin”. If it drains, you fixed it for free! If F21 returns, replace the pump below.

Filter clean but still won’t drain? You need a new pump:

🚀 Recommended Replacement Part

Whirlpool Duet Drain Pump (W10130913)


👉 View on Amazon