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Error code reference

Electrolux Washer Error Code E21

Difficulties in draining

Electrolux codesElectrolux washer codes

Difficulties in draining - drain hose kinked/blocked/incorrectly positioned, drain filter clogged, drain pump faulty, pressure switch faulty, wiring faulty, circuit board faulty, or current leakage from heating element to ground.

First step from the service manual

Check drain hose for kinks/blockage/positioning; clean drain filter; check drain pump; check pressure switch; check wiring; check circuit board; check heating element for current leakage to ground.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E21 means on a Electrolux washer

The E21 error code on an Electrolux washer indicates the machine is experiencing difficulty draining water within the expected time frame. The control board monitors the drainage cycle and triggers this fault when the pressure switch fails to confirm that the tub has emptied properly. This can stem from restrictions in the drain path, a failed pump, faulty sensing components, or electrical issues affecting how the board interprets the drain status.

The most straightforward causes involve the drain hose or filter. A kinked, blocked, or improperly positioned drain hose will restrict or completely prevent water flow out of the machine. Similarly, a clogged drain filter, which traps lint, coins, and debris, can choke the outlet enough to stall drainage. The drain pump itself can also fail mechanically or electrically, either seizing up or losing the motor torque needed to move water out at the required rate.

Beyond the mechanical drain path, the E21 code can also point to electrical faults. A faulty pressure switch may fail to signal the control board that the drum is empty, even when drainage is complete, causing a false E21 condition. Wiring harness damage or corrosion along the drain pump or pressure switch circuit can produce the same result. In less common cases, current leakage from the heating element to ground can interfere with the washer's electrical systems broadly, including drainage control logic, and should be tested if other causes are ruled out.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E21

  1. 01

    Clogged or blocked drain filter

    Wiring / connection

    Lint, hair, coins, and small debris accumulate in the drain filter over time and restrict water flow. Locate the filter access panel at the lower front of the washer, place a towel down, and clean the filter thoroughly.

  2. 02

    Kinked or improperly positioned drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    A drain hose that is kinked, crushed behind the machine, or inserted too far into the standpipe can block or restrict outflow. Inspect the full length of the hose and confirm it is routed without tight bends and seated correctly at the drain outlet.

  3. 03

    Faulty drain pump

    Part replacement

    The drain pump motor can seize, lose efficiency, or fail electrically, preventing it from moving water out of the tub. Listen for a humming noise with no water movement, which is a common sign of a seized pump impeller or failed motor.

  4. 04

    Faulty pressure switch

    Part replacement

    The pressure switch monitors water level and signals the control board when the drum is empty. If the switch or its connecting hose is defective, the board may not receive a drain-complete signal even when the tub has emptied correctly.

  5. 05

    Heating element current leakage to ground

    Part replacement

    A degraded heating element can develop a current leak to ground, which can interfere with washer electronics including drain cycle control. This is confirmed by testing the heating element for continuity between the element body and ground with a multimeter.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E21

What does E21 mean on a Electrolux washer?
E21 indicates the washer is having difficulty draining water within the expected cycle time. The control board triggers this fault when it does not receive confirmation from the pressure switch that the tub has emptied. Causes range from a blocked drain filter or kinked hose to a failed drain pump, faulty pressure switch, wiring issues, or heating element current leakage to ground.
How do I fix the E21 error on my Electrolux washer?
Start by checking the drain hose for kinks or blockages and cleaning the drain filter at the lower front of the machine. If those checks pass, test the drain pump to confirm it is running and moving water. If the pump is working but the error persists, the pressure switch, wiring connections, or heating element should be inspected for faults.
Will resetting my Electrolux washer clear the E21 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the E21 code, but if the underlying cause has not been resolved, the error will return during the next drain cycle. Unplug the washer for a few minutes to reset the control board, then run a cycle and monitor whether the code reappears. A persistent E21 requires physical inspection and repair of the drain system or related components.
Is it safe to use my Electrolux washer while it shows E21?
It is not recommended to continue running the washer while E21 is active. If the machine cannot drain, water may remain in the drum, and repeated failed cycles can strain the pump motor or worsen an existing fault. Unplug the appliance, drain any standing water through the filter access panel, and diagnose the cause before running another cycle.
How much does it cost to repair an Electrolux washer showing E21?
If the fix is a simple drain filter cleaning or hose repositioning, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing a faulty drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200 for the part, plus labor if a technician performs the repair. A pressure switch replacement is generally less expensive, often in the $20 to $60 range for the part, while control board replacement represents the higher end of potential repair costs.

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