Whirlpool F21 or F9 E1 error codes and how to fix it

In the event that your Whirlpool washer displays an F21 or F9 E1 error codes, it signifies that there is a drainage problem. The good news is that this issue can usually be resolved by clearing the drain filter or drain hose. However, if the error persists, the drain pump and pressure switch will likely need to be tested with a multimeter to determine if the part is defective and needs to be replaced. If you need to resolve the error code quickly, performing a reset should provide a temporary fix.

This guide applies to most Whirlpool washers, including the following models:

2LA5700XMW0
2LA5700XMW1
2LSR5233BN0
2LSR5233BQ1
2LSR5233BW0
2LSR5233BZ1
LSC8244EQ0
LSC8244EQ1
LSC8244EZ0
LSC8244EZ1
LSR6132EQ0
LSR6132EZ0
LSR7233EQ0
LSR7233EW0
LSR7233EZ0
LSR8233EQ0
LSR8233EZ0
LSR8244EQ0
LSR8244EQ1
LSR8244EZ0
LSR8244EZ1

What Causes the F21 or F9 E1 error codes?
The most common causes of the F21 error code are:

1. The drain pump has a blockage or is faulty and needs to be replaced.
2. The drain filter on the drain pump is blocked or clogged.
3. The drain hose is blocked or bent.

Other less common causes include:

1. The pressure switch is faulty and causing a communication error between the drain pump and the main control board.
2. The drain pump wiring harness is damaged, or the harness has a communication problem with the main control board.
3. The pipe the drain hose drains into is blocked or clogged.

How to Fix the F21 or F9 E1 error codes
Perform a Reset
If you want to clear the error code quickly, you can either try pressing Pause/Cancel two times or perform a reset. To reset the washer, disconnect the power to the washer for 1 minute. When you reconnect the power, the error code should have cleared.

Sometimes, an error code is caused by a glitch. If the power is disconnected, the glitch will be fixed, and the washer should work normally again. However, if it is not a glitch, disconnecting the power may clear the error, but the problem will remain. Therefore, even if you resolve the error code, you should still check for drainage problems and fix the issue to avoid causing more serious damage to the washer or your laundry.

Check the Drain Hose
If the washer will not drain, the drain hose may be kinked, pinched, or obstructed by a small object. It is also possible that the drain hose outlet has been submerged in water, which would restrict the washer’s draining ability. Another thing to check is that the drain hose is installed correctly.

The drain hose may be connected to a spigot on the waste pipe or a waste trap or to a standpipe. How the drain hose should be installed can depend on the model and type of connection you have. Check the washer’s manual for the specifications needed for your hose to work correctly.

If the drain hose cannot be unclogged or connected properly, it will need to be replaced.

Inspecting the Drain Pump and Drain Filter

In the event that the drain hose is not obstructed, a faulty drain pump or clogged drain filter could be the reason behind a washer’s inability to drain properly. Tiny foreign objects such as clothing articles, coins, or bobby pins may cause clogs in the drain filter and pump. Additionally, the pump’s impeller can deteriorate over time or break, causing obstructions or damage to the pump. If the impeller is damaged, replacing the pump is necessary to ensure proper functioning. If the pump is not blocked and the impeller is undamaged, an electrical failure may be the cause. To verify if the pump is faulty, use a multimeter to test the pump’s motor for continuity, which indicates a continuous electrical path.

Many Whirlpool washing machines feature a drain filter connected to the drain pump. Similarly, the drain filter can become clogged with tiny objects, hindering the washer’s draining ability. The drain filter is typically simple to locate and clear once the access panel is removed. After clearing the drain filter, inspect the pump for obstructions or damage.

Access to the drain pump and filter is contingent on the model. For top-loader washers, placing the washer on its back is typically required to access the drain pump and filter beneath it. For front-loader washers, removing an access panel at the back or front of the washer is typically required. Check the washer’s manual to locate the drain pump and filter for your specific model.

To examine the drain pump and filter:

1. Disconnect the power supply to the washer.
2. Turn off the washer’s water supply. Depending on the model, the water hoses may need to be disconnected to move the washer and access the drain pump and filter.
3. Unscrew and remove the access panel from the washer.
4. Place a container beneath to catch any water that may leak out, which can amount to 2-3 gallons.
5. Turn the knob counterclockwise to unscrew it from the drain pump.
6. The filter should be located at the back of the knob.
7. Remove any debris or lint from the filter.
8. Inspect the drain pump for damaged impellers or obstructions.
9. Check the wiring harness on the drain pump to ensure it is secure and undamaged.
10. Verify that the water drain lines are not blocked or kinked and are properly attached.
11. If clearing the filter and drain pump does not fix the error code, use a multimeter to verify if the drain pump motor is faulty and requires replacement. With the multimeter probes connected to the terminals on the pump, the pump should read between 5-10 ohms, depending on the model. A reading of zero or infinity indicates the need to replace the pump.

While the access panel is removed, ensure that the pressure switch is not causing the problem.

Inspecting the Pressure Switch

The pressure switch or water level control determines the amount of water in the tub and informs the control panel whether the tub requires filling or emptying. The pressure switch’s position varies based on the model. Consult the washer’s manual for the switch’s location. The pressure switch is usually circular with a wiring harness connected to its back.

Testing the pressure switch with a multimeter:

1. Set the multimeter to either RX1 or X1 scale.
2. Locate the pressure switch and identify its holes.
3. Insert one probe into the far left hole and the other probe into the third hole from the left. The reading should show as zero.
4. Test the “suds detect” function by placing one probe into the far right hole and the other probe into the adjacent hole. The reading should also be zero.
5. To test the rinse, put one probe into the second hole from the left and the other probe into the third hole from the left. Again, the reading should be zero.
6. Finally, leave the probe in the third hole from the left and insert the other probe into the fourth hole from the left to test the overflow pressure. The reading should still be zero.
7. If the pressure switch fails any of these tests, you will need to replace it.
8. If the problem persists even after testing the pressure switch, it may be best to consult a trained professional to check whether the control board is faulty and causing the issue.

With these instructions, you should be able to effectively test your pressure switch and determine if it is causing your drainage issue.