F21 Error Code
📋 What Does F21 Mean?
Long Drain — water is taking more than 8 minutes to drain.
🔍 Common Causes
- 1Pump filter clogged with lint, coins, or debris
- 2Drain hose kinked or blocked
- 3Drain pump motor failure
- 4Drain hose too high from floor
📞 When to Call a Pro
If filter clean and hose clear, drain pump has failed.
🔧 DIY Fix Steps
- 1Clean pump filter: access behind bottom front panel, unscrew filter cap slowly with towel ready
- 2Check drain hose for kinks at back of machine
- 3Run Drain & Spin cycle only
- 4Ensure drain hose is not more than 96 inches from floor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does F21 mean on a Maytag washing machine?
Long Drain — water is taking more than 8 minutes to drain.
Can I fix F21 myself?
Yes, in many cases. Start with: clean pump filter: access behind bottom front panel, unscrew filter cap slowly with towel ready If that does not resolve it, if filter clean and hose clear, drain pump has failed.
How much does it cost to repair error F21?
Estimated repair cost: $150–$350. This varies by region and technician.
Tools That Help With This Diagnosis
Basic troubleshooting tools grouped separately from the actual error-code explanation.
Multimeters
Useful for basic electrical checks when the repair path calls for it and the unit is safely isolated.
Driver sets
Useful when the first obstacle is simply reaching the part or hose involved.
Cleanup tools
Useful for drain and leak faults where standing water hides the problem.
Related Pages
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Troubleshooting guide hub
Open broader diagnosis, symptom, and first-step guides.
Diagnostic tools
See basic tools that help without mixing them into the code explanation itself.
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