# How to Fix Roper Error F21 (Drain Issue)
The F21 error code is a common fault across many Roper and Whirlpool-family washing machines, indicating a problem with the drainage system.
—
## Explanation: What Error F21 Means
The F21 error signifies a **drainage failure**. In simple terms, the machine tried to drain the water from the drum but the water level did not drop fast enough (or at all) within a specific time limit (usually 8–10 minutes).
When this happens, the control board halts the cycle to prevent flooding or motor damage. The overwhelming majority of F21 codes are caused by:
1. **A Blockage:** Something foreign (coins, socks, lint) is clogging the drain pump filter or the drain hose.
2. **A Faulty Drain Pump:** The motor has failed and is no longer moving the water out.
—
## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Clearing the Issue
Before attempting any repairs, ensure the machine is **unplugged** from the wall outlet to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
### Step 1: Clear the Remaining Water
Since the machine did not drain, you will need to manually remove the water before accessing the pump.
1. **Locate the drain hose** (usually near the bottom front or back of the unit). Place the hose lower than the drum and into a bucket to drain the water.
2. If your model has a **small drain access tube** next to the pump filter, use this to slowly drain the water into a shallow pan or towel.
### Step 2: Check the Drain Hose and Standpipe
Ensure the problem isn’t external before dismantling the machine.
1. **Check for Kinks:** Trace the large drain hose leading from the back of the washer to the wall or standpipe. Ensure there are no sharp bends, kinks, or crushing restricting flow.
2. **Check the Outlet:** Verify that the pipe or sink the washer drains into is not clogged itself.
### Step 3: Access and Clean the Drain Pump Filter (Coin Trap)
This is the most common fix for the F21 error. The filter traps debris before it can damage the pump.
1. **Locate the Access Panel:** On most Roper front-load models, the drain pump and filter are behind a small, square access panel at the very bottom front of the machine. Use a flathead screwdriver or putty knife to carefully pop this panel open.
2. **Unscrew the Filter Cap:** You will see a large, circular cap or plug. Place towels or a shallow tray underneath, as residual water will spill out. Slowly twist the cap counter-clockwise to remove the drain filter.
3. **Clear Debris:** Remove any coins, lint, hair, socks, or foreign objects stuck in the filter screen or the cavity.
4. **Inspect the Housing:** Use a flashlight to look into the pump housing where the filter goes. Ensure the opening is clear and nothing is blocking the inlet/outlet tubes.
5. **Replace the Filter:** Screw the filter cap back in firmly. Close the access panel.
### Step 4: Check the Drain Pump Impeller
If the filter was clean, the blockage might be right at the pump’s impeller (the spinning blade).
1. **Locate the Impeller:** Once the filter is removed, you may be able to see the impeller inside the housing.
2. **Test Movement:** Carefully use a wooden spoon or gloved finger to gently push the impeller blade. It should spin easily. If it is stiff or refuses to turn, there may be debris jammed behind it.
3. **Clear Blockage:** If you find blockage, try to carefully fish it out with needle-nose pliers or a wire hanger (bent into a hook).
### Step 5: Test the Pump (If Problem Persists)
If you have cleared all blockages and the F21 code still appears, the drain pump has likely failed electrically or mechanically and needs replacement.
* You can confirm this by running a short rinse/spin cycle. If you hear a low buzzing sound but no water is moving, the pump motor is locked or burned out.
* Replacing the pump is generally straightforward, requiring access to the pump from the front or bottom of the washer, disconnecting the electrical harness, and unscrewing the mounting bolts.
—
**Call to Action**
Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Roper+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20