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Error Code Reference

KitchenAid Washer Error Code F21 / F22

This error indicates a drainage problem or water level detection issue on your KitchenAid washer. The appliance has detected that water is not draining properly or the water level sensor is not functioning correctly, preventing the wash cycle from completing normally.

Technical Advisory
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Signs

What you may observe

• Washer stops mid-cycle and displays F21 or F22 error code • Water remains standing in the washer drum after cycle completion • Excessive water pooling at the base of the appliance • Drain pump makes unusual grinding or humming sounds • Washer fails to advance to the rinse or spin cycle • Error code may appear intermittently or consistently • Clothes remain wet after attempted wash cycle

Possible Causes

Root causes behind this error

• Kinked, pinched, or collapsed drain hose restricting water flow • Clogged drain pump filter containing lint, coins, or foreign objects • Faulty drain pump motor unable to expel water at 120V operation • Malfunctioning water level sensor (pressure switch) providing false readings • Blocked or kinked standpipe connection in your home's drain system • Failed drain valve solenoid preventing valve opening • Control board malfunction preventing proper drain cycle initiation • Oversized laundry loads exceeding washer capacity causing drainage delays • Household circuit breaker tripping due to electrical surge, reducing power to drain components

Safety Checks You Can Do

Steps you can try at home safely

• Check your home's circuit breaker panel to ensure the 120V breaker serving the washer is in the ON position; reset if tripped by switching to OFF then back to ON • Verify the washer door (top-load) or lid is fully closed and latching completely before operation • Inspect both hot and cold water supply valves behind the washer to confirm they are turned fully open (turn counterclockwise until they stop) • Locate the drain hose behind the washer and visually inspect along its entire length for kinks, pinches, or crushing that restricts water flow; straighten any bends • Ensure the drain hose is not inserted more than 8 inches into your home's standpipe and is not submerged in standing water • Remove any laundry loads larger than your washer's maximum capacity rating and re-run the cycle with a reduced load • Review the control panel settings to confirm you selected the appropriate cycle and spin speed for your load type • Perform a complete appliance reset by turning off the circuit breaker for exactly 60 seconds, then turn it back on and attempt a new wash cycle • Check underneath the washer for water pooling, which may indicate a leaking drain pump or internal connection requiring professional service
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