Whirlpool Washer F21 manual
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Whirlpool Washer F21

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Common questions

Common Questions

10 total
1

What does the F21 error code mean on my Whirlpool washer?

The F21 error code indicates that drain times are longer than expected. This is typically caused by a kinked or clogged drain hose, or by using non-HE detergent which can create excessive suds and drainage issues. Check your drain hose for kinks or blockages, and ensure you are using only HE High-Efficiency detergent.

2

How do I fix an F21 or F02 error code on my Whirlpool Duet washer?

First, press the Pause/Cancel button to clear the error. If that doesn't work, unplug the washer or disconnect the power for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and re-select your cycle and press Start. If the error persists after checking that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged and you are using HE detergent, call for service.

3

What should I check if my Whirlpool washer won't drain properly?

Check that the drain hose is not kinked or clogged by straightening the hose and removing any blockage from the drain hose, drainpipe, or utility sink. Make sure you are using the U-shaped drain hose form to secure the drain hose properly, as detailed in the Installation Instructions.

4

What type of detergent should I use in my Whirlpool front load washer?

Always use only HE High-Efficiency detergent in your Whirlpool washer. Using non-HE detergent or more than the recommended amount can cause excessive suds, leading to leaking, draining concerns, and poor rinsing performance. Whirlpool recommends Swash® Laundry Detergent, which is an 8x concentrated formula designed for both HE and non-HE washing machines.

5

Why is my Whirlpool Cabrio washer leaking?

Leaking can be caused by using non-HE detergent or using more detergent than recommended, which creates excessive suds. Always use only HE High-Efficiency detergent in the amount specified by the manufacturer to prevent leaking and other drainage issues.

6

How much Swash detergent should I use in my washer?

Swash® Laundry Detergent is an 8x concentrated formula, so you should use about a quarter of the amount you would need with a traditional 2x concentration detergent. Despite the small amount, it is highly effective at cleaning clothes.

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Full Manual

2 pages
Page 1

What is an F21 or F02 Error Code on a Front Load Washer What is an F21 or F02 Error Code on my Whirlpool Front Load Washer? These error codes indicate that drain times are longer than expected. Here are some common issues: • Drain hose kinked • Drain hose clogged • Not using HE High Efficiency detergent Removing the Error Press the Pause/Cancel Button If Pause/Cancel does not work, perform the following:

  • Unplug the washer or disconnect the power for 5 minutes.
  • Plug in the washer or reconnect the power.
  • Re-select the cycle and press Start.
  • NOTE: If the error remains on the display, and all of the other conditions above have been checked, call for service. Is the drain hose kinked or clogged? Make sure the drain hose is not kinked or clogged. Straighten the hose for adequate water flow. Remove any blockage from the drain hose, drainpipe or utility sink. Use the U-shaped drain hose form on the drain hose, and secure the drain hose. See the Installation Instructions for details. Media, iframe, embed and object tags are not supported inside of a PDF. https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Product_Info/Washer_Product_Assistance/What_is_an_F21_or_F02_Err… Updated: Mon, 06 Apr 2026 23:37:05 GMT Powered by 1

    Page 2

    Are you using HE High-Efficiency detergent? Always use only HE detergent. Using non-HE detergent or more than the manufacturer's recommended amount of detergent can cause excessive suds, which can lead to the washer leaking, draining concerns, and/or poor rinsing performance. Whirlpool recommends using Swash® Laundry Detergent. It is designed to work in both high-efficiency (HE) and non- HE washing machines. With an 8x concentrated formula, you’ll use about a quarter of the detergent you’d need with a traditional 2x concentration detergent. It may look like a small amount, but you’ll be amazed at its effectiveness. Media, iframe, embed and object tags are not supported inside of a PDF. https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Product_Info/Washer_Product_Assistance/What_is_an_F21_or_F02_Err… Updated: Mon, 06 Apr 2026 23:37:05 GMT Powered by 2

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