E20 Moderate Easy DIY

Frigidaire Washer E20 — Drain pump won't pump out

Frigidaire Washer · Error code E20

What E20 Means

Water did not drain within the allowed time. Almost always a blockage — start with the pump filter. Also displayed as E21 on some models.

Symptoms

  • Standing water in tub
  • Cycle pauses at drain
  • Pump hums but no flow
  • Foul smell

Common Causes

1
Clogged pump trap/filter

Coins, hair, lint, and small clothing items collect in the trap.

2
Kinked or clogged drain hose

Hose stuffed too far into standpipe or pinched behind unit.

3
Clogged household standpipe

Lint and detergent scale build up in the drain line.

4
Failed drain pump motor

Open winding or seized impeller — no pumping action.

5
Object in pump impeller

Bra wire or coin jamming the impeller blade.

How to Fix It

  1. Power off and place towels — water will spill from the trap.
  2. Open the front access panel and unscrew the pump filter (turn slowly).
  3. Remove debris, rinse the filter, reinstall.
  4. Pull machine forward and inspect the drain hose for kinks; clear standpipe.
  5. If still won't drain, test pump motor for ~10-30 ohms and 120 VAC during drain.
  6. Replace the pump if open winding or seized.

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Frigidaire washer drain pump View on Amazon→ Common replacement Washer drain hose View on Amazon→

More Frigidaire Washer Codes

E10 E10 — Water fill problem E11 E11 — Fill time too long E13 E13 — Water leak or air leak in pressure system E21 E21 — Slow drain / water remains in tub E23 E23 — Drain pump relay fault on control board E31 E31 — Pressure sensor communication failure

All Frigidaire codes → All washer codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: frigidaire.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.