Whirlpool Washer F9 E1 Error: Long Drain

F9 E1 on a Whirlpool washer (and on many Maytag, Kenmore and Inglis models built by Whirlpool) is a long drain error. The washer took longer than expected to pump out the water.

What to check yourself

1. Drain hose depth. Whirlpool specifies that the hose should go no more than about 4.5 in (113 mm) into the standpipe or laundry tub. If it’s pushed in too far or sealed with tape, the water can siphon back.
2. Drain hose height. The top of the drain should be no more than about 96 in (8 ft) above the bottom of the washer.
3. Kinks and clogs in the drain hose, or a partly blocked standpipe or laundry sink drain.
4. Drain pump filter. Many front-load models have a cleanable filter behind a small access door at the bottom front.
5. Too much detergent. Excess suds slow down draining. Use HE detergent and measure carefully.

When it’s a repair

If the hose, drain and filter are clear, the likely cause is a failing drain pump. Less often it’s a blockage inside the tub-to-pump hose, a wiring fault or the control board. We test the pump and replace it if needed, usually in one visit.

How to clear F9 E1

Press Power to cancel, then unplug the washer for about a minute. Fix the drain issue, plug it back in and run Drain & Spin. If the washer drains fully and the code doesn’t return, the problem is solved.

Siphoning: the hidden cause

If the drain hose is pushed too deep into the standpipe or sealed around the pipe, water can siphon out during the wash and the washer keeps refilling. Some washers then show drain or fill errors. Keeping the hose depth within Whirlpool’s limit and leaving an air gap around the hose prevents it.

How we diagnose it

1. Check the drain hose, standpipe and house drain.
2. Check the pump filter and the hose from the tub to the pump.
3. Test the drain pump for power and operation.
4. Check the wiring and control if the pump doesn’t get power.

How to prevent it

• Empty pockets and use a mesh bag for small items.
• Clean the pump filter every few months on front-loaders.
• Use HE detergent and measure it.

Frequently asked questions

Is F9 E1 the same as F21?

Yes, the meaning is the same: long drain. Older Whirlpool front-loaders show F21. See our older guide to Whirlpool F21 and F9 E1 codes.

Does this apply to Maytag and Kenmore?

Many Maytag, Kenmore and Inglis washers are built by Whirlpool and use the same code.

The washer drains fine now but the code comes back sometimes.

An intermittent long-drain error often means the drain pump is starting to fail or there’s a partial blockage. Book a check before it stops completely.

Need help?

Call 604-729-0499 or leave a request online. See also: Whirlpool appliance repair.