Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart/EcoSmart Top-Load Code 21: water valve drawing too much current

What 21 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart/EcoSmart top-load washers like the WA37T26EW and WA42T26GW, code 21 is a water valve over-current error. The Motor Control Module has detected the water valve circuit drawing more current than it should. To protect itself, the washer stops filling, and the display shows 21 at the start of a cycle or during fill. It happens before any water enters the tub.

Common causes of 21

Water inlet valve coil drawing excess current
Valve wiring or connector problem
Motor Control Module output for the valve

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn the washer off and close both water faucets. 2. Switch off the breaker for one minute, then restore power. 3. Open the faucets and start a short rinse. 4. If 21 returns, close the faucets again and call us; we will test the valve.

! Why to stop there

Valve and board need to be measured to know which one is overloading the circuit.
A valve that draws extra current can damage the control if it keeps running.
We provide a written price first and a 30-day workmanship warranty.

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.

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Other Washer codes

KEY LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "KEY LOC": control panel is locked no tAPFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "no tAP": water not reaching the washer out OF bALFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "out OF bAL": load needs rebalancing Sud LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "Sud LOC": too many suds, washer paused 235Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 235: Lid lock short circuit 253Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Top-Load Code 253: SmartPump drawing high current 236Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 236: Incompatible EEPROM version 254Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 254: motor control software too old

2121 questions

Does code 21 mean the washer is leaking?

No. It describes electrical current in the valve circuit being too high. Water supply and hoses are not what the code reports. Water hoses and faucets are not the issue here.

Why does it stop at the fill stage?

The valve is only powered when the washer fills. The control watches its current and shuts the circuit down if the reading is too high.

Should I close the faucets?

Yes, while the washer is unused with this code it is sensible to close the faucets. It removes any chance of water entering through the valve while nobody is home.