Error code · Washer

Maytag Front-Load Washer Code F21: Slow Drain Out of the Tub

Seeing F21 on a Maytag front-load HE washer, the MHW models such as the MHW6630HC and MHW8630HC, means the washer has a drain problem: the water is not leaving the drum as it should. The cycle…

Medium · inspection needed

Book a House Call (713) 936-6390

Code: F21
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Maytag
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What F21 means

Seeing F21 on a Maytag front-load HE washer, the MHW models such as the MHW6630HC and MHW8630HC, means the washer has a drain problem: the water is not leaving the drum as it should. The cycle stops with water in the tub and a wet load. The two checks that come with the code are whether the drain hose is kinked and whether it is clogged. It is the same condition as F02 on the older HOLD TO START front-loaders, but this page is for the MHW series.

Common causes of F21

A kinked or crushed drain hose
A clogged drain hose or standpipe
The drain pump, once the hose and standpipe are clear

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Check the drain hose behind the washer for a kink or crushed spot. 2. Look for a clog in the hose or at the standpipe. 3. Disconnect power for 5 minutes, then restore it. 4. Start a drain cycle. If water stays in the drum, stop and call us.

! Why to stop there

A clear hose does not prove the pump is fine, so we test the pump under load
Small items can sit in the pump inlet where an owner cannot see them
An older MHW gets an honest verdict from us on whether the repair is worth it

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

→Same appliance

Other Washer codes

tEMaytag Neptune Washer Code tE: Sump Thermistor Reading Outside Normal Range uLMaytag Bravos Washer Code uL: Unbalanced Load, Correction Routine Running Wash Light On or FlashingMaytag Top-Load Washer Wash Light On or Flashing: Water Level Not Changing Ofb or uLMaytag Top-Load Washer Code Ofb or uL: Load Out of Balance, Hands Needed oLMaytag Top-Load Washer Code oL: Load Too Large for the Tub PFMaytag Washer Code PF: Cycle Interrupted by a Power Failure Rinse Light OnMaytag Top-Load Washer Rinse Light On: Spray Rinse Is Running SdMaytag Bravos Washer Code Sd: Suds Reduction Routine at the End of the Wash

F21F21 questions

What does F21 mean?

A drain problem. The washer could not push the water out, so it stopped. The two things to ask are whether the drain hose is kinked and whether it is clogged, and both can be checked from behind the machine.

Is it safe to open the door with water in the drum?

Not with a full drum. Water will spill. Let the washer drain first before opening it, or call us if it will not drain on its own.

How is F21 different from F02?

F02 is the drain code on older front-loaders with a HOLD TO START control. F21 is used on the MHW series. We repair both, with a written price first and a 30-day warranty.

Book a visit

Still seeing F21?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 936-6390