Washing Machine Not Draining Water – Error Code E20 or E21

Issue

f your washing machine displays error code E20, E21, E22, E23, E24 or C2, if the washing machine is not draining water, or if water remains in the drum at the end of the wash cycle, the issue is often caused by a blocked drain filter, a restriction in the drain hose, or a drainage system fault.

You may notice one or more of the following signs:

• The washing machine displays E20, E21, E22, E23, E24 or C2
• The washing machine emits two beeps or flashes twice
• Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle
• The washing machine does not drain correctly
• The spin cycle does not start or complete
• Unusual noises can be heard from the drain pump area
• Clothes remain wetter than normal at the end of the programme

Applies to

• Front loader washing machine
• Top loader washing machine
• Washer dryer

Resolution

Start by checking the most common causes of the problem. In many cases, the issue can be resolved without service.

1. Ensure the drain hose is in the correct position

The drain hose should extend no more than 10 cm down into the drain.

Refer to the installation instructions in the user manual supplied with your appliance.

2. Ensure correct drain height.

The height of the drain must be no more than 100 cm and no less than 60 cm above the base of the machine or as shown in the user manual.

Refer to the installation instructions in your user manual.

3. Clean the pump and filter.

Clean the pump and fluff filter, including the pump blade (if the pump blade is visible, rotate it with a pencil and refit the filter). Then start a hot wash without adding any soap powder to clean out the drainage system.

For detailed procedure refer to the article How to drain a washing machine/washer dryer or the user manual supplied with your appliance.

4. Check for a blocked drain

Check the hose connected to the sink trap, and check if the sink is draining normally to rule out the blockage.

Check whether the drains are draining satisfactorily. Try a wash with the drain hose in a bowl or sink.

if the washing machine is working correctly after the test wash, it may indicate that the siphon/outlet is clogged - make sure the siphon/outlet is clear

5. If the drain hose has been extended as shown in the above installation diagram, check the place where the hoses are connected (due to the reduced flow diameter, it is more likely to be blocked)

6. Check the drainage hose for possible kinks or twist

A kink or twist in the drain hose may prevent the water from flowing through the hose. You can check it behind the machine.

7. Use less soap powder.

When a lot of soap powder is used or a lot of foam is produced, the level system can get blocked by foam.

Remove the foam manually from the drum. Clean the drain pump/filter and then run a hot wash without any soap powder.

8. Switch off the power to the washing machine

The problem may be solved by switching off the power to the washing machine for about 1-2 hours and then starting a wash cycle again.

If the pump has been blocked, a bimetal fuse will switch off the pump. When the pump has cooled down, it should work normally.

For further support see the video below:

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Cause

FAQ – Error Code E20 or Similar (Draining Problem)

Why does my washing machine show error code E20?
The washing machine is unable to drain water within the expected time.

Can a blocked drain filter cause E20?
Yes, a blocked filter is one of the most common causes.

Can a blocked drain hose cause E20?
Yes, restrictions in the drain hose can prevent water from draining properly.

Why is water left in the drum after the cycle?
This usually indicates a draining problem.

Is some water in the drain filter area normal?
Yes, a small amount of residual water is normal.

When should I book service for E20?
If the washing machine still does not drain after cleaning the filter and checking the drain system.

If your washing machine continues to experience problems, you can learn more about our professional repair service and repair options.