F9
Whirlpool Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The F9 error means your Whirlpool washer cannot drain the water. The machine tried to pump the water out but it's still sitting inside. This is usually caused by a clog in the drain hose, pump filter, or standpipe.
Affected Models
- WTW5000DW
- WFW5620HW
- WTW4816FW
- WFW9620HW
- Most Whirlpool top-load and front-load washers
Common Causes
- The drain hose is kinked, clogged, or positioned too deep in the standpipe
- The drain pump filter is clogged with coins, hair pins, or debris
- A small item like a sock is blocking the drain pump impeller
- The drain pump motor has failed
- The standpipe or household drain is backed up
How to Fix It
-
Check the drain hose at the back of the washer.
Make sure it's not kinked or crushed. The hose should be inserted 4-8 inches into the standpipe, not deeper.
-
Clean the drain pump filter (front-load washers).
Open the small access panel at the bottom front of the washer. Place towels and a shallow pan to catch water. Twist the filter cap and pull it out. Remove any debris.
-
Check the standpipe or utility sink drain for clogs.
Run water down the standpipe separately. If it backs up, the household drain is the problem, not the washer.
-
Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then restart a drain and spin cycle.
A power reset can clear temporary pump errors.
-
If the washer still won't drain, the drain pump may need replacement.
Contact a technician for diagnosis and pump replacement.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the filter and checking the hose doesn't fix it, the drain pump may need replacement. A technician can test the pump motor and check for hidden clogs. Expect repair costs of $125–$275 including parts and labor. The drain pump part itself is usually $25–$75.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there water stuck in my Whirlpool washer?
The F9 error means something is blocking the drain path. The most common cause is a clogged drain pump filter. Small items from pockets like coins and hair pins collect there. Cleaning the filter usually solves the problem.
How do I manually drain my Whirlpool washer?
On front-load models, open the small access panel at the bottom front. Place towels and a pan underneath. Slowly twist the drain filter cap to release the water. On top-load models, you may need to disconnect the drain hose into a bucket.
How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
Clean it every 1–2 months for best results. If you wash items with lots of lint or pet hair, clean it monthly. Regular cleaning prevents the F9 drain error. Always check pockets before washing to keep debris out.