Error code · Washer

Slow Drain Error E21 on an Electrolux Front-Load Washer

Medium · inspection needed

Code: E21
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Electrolux
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What E21 means

E21 on Electrolux Wave-Touch and IQ-Touch front-load washers, such as the EWFLW65HIW, EIFLW55HIW, EFLS627UTT and ELFW7637AT, means water is not pumping out fast enough or takes too long to empty. The usual cause is a restricted drain, most often a kinked hose. The drain pump, its wiring or the main control can also be involved. These are older washers still in many Houston homes.

Common causes of E21

A kinked or blocked drain hose
A blockage in the drain pump
The drain pump or its wiring
The main control board

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Check the drain hose for kinks, crushing or clogs. 2. Make sure the drain hose is installed as the Use and Care manual shows. 3. Make sure the hot and cold lines are not reversed. 4. If E21 returns, stop the washer and call us.

! Why to stop there

A hose, a pump blockage and a failing pump all look alike from the owner's side, so we test them in order.
We start with the drain path before any part.
If the washer is too old to justify the repair, we say so before you spend anything.

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

SU dSElectrolux Washer Message SU dS: Too Many Suds Detected TOO MUCH DETERGENTElectrolux Washer Message "TOO MUCH DETERGENT" EF1Electrolux Washer Code EF1: Clogged Drain Pump EF2Electrolux Washer Code EF2: Too Much Detergent EF5Electrolux Washer EF5: Hot and Cold Water Mix-Up EF8Electrolux Washer Code EF8: Stuck Key HO SEElectrolux Washer Message HO SE: Hoses on the Wrong Inlets LOCElectrolux Washer Message LOC: Control Lock Is On

E21E21 questions

What is the most common cause of E21?

A kinked or crushed drain hose. It is the first thing to check, and it is the most common cause, ahead of a pump blockage or a failing pump.

Could E21 be the drain pump?

Yes. A blocked or weak pump can cause it. We test the pump and its wiring after the hose is cleared, so you only pay for a repair that is actually needed.

Is standing water in the washer a problem?

It can be. Keep the washer off and call us so we can drain it safely. Do not run another cycle on top of water that has not drained.

Book a visit

Still seeing E21?

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

(713) 979-9150