Whirlpool Washer Error Codes
Whirlpool washers flash a letter-number code when a cycle can't finish. Find yours below with what the control board is reporting and the first fix to try.
F21
Means: Long drain — the washer took too long to drain the water.
Fix: Clean the drain pump filter, then check the drain hose for kinks or clogs and that it isn't pushed more than a few inches into the standpipe.
F02
Means: Drain time is too long (front-load equivalent of F21).
Fix: Clear the pump filter and drain hose; a sock or coin stuck in the pump is the usual cause.
Sud / F5E2
Means: Too many suds detected — the machine paused to let foam settle.
Fix: Use less detergent and switch to HE (high-efficiency) detergent only. Run a rinse-only cycle to clear the foam.
uL
Means: Unbalanced load — the drum couldn't spin evenly.
Fix: Open the lid, redistribute the clothes, and add a couple of items if you're washing one bulky piece alone.
LF / F30
Means: Long fill — the washer isn't filling with enough water in time.
Fix: Check both hot and cold supply valves are fully open and the inlet screens aren't clogged; low water pressure also triggers this.
dU
Means: Door/lid unlock fault — the lock didn't release.
Fix: Power the washer off for one minute. If it repeats, the lid lock assembly likely needs replacing.
rL / F9E1
Means: Items detected in the drum during a Clean Washer cycle.
Fix: Remove all laundry and restart the Clean Washer cycle empty.
FAQ
How do I reset a Whirlpool washer?
Unplug the washer (or switch off its breaker) for one full minute, then restore power. This clears most temporary codes. For a full control reset, some models respond to pressing Pause/Cancel twice.
Why does my Whirlpool keep showing F21?
A repeating F21 almost always means a partial drain clog. Clean the pump filter behind the lower front panel and flush the drain hose — if water still drains slowly, the drain pump may be failing.