F33
Whirlpool Washing Machine
Severity: CriticalWhat Does This Error Mean?
Whirlpool error F33 means the pump drive system has failed. The washer cannot drain water from the tub because the pump motor or its control circuit is not working. The tub may be full of water and clothes when this error appears.
Affected Models
- WFW9620HW
- WFW8620HW
- WFW5620HW
- WFW6620HW
- WFW94HEXW
Common Causes
- The drain pump is clogged with lint, a coin, or a small garment and cannot spin freely
- The pump motor has burned out due to age or a blockage that caused it to overheat
- A wiring connection between the pump motor and the motor control unit is loose or damaged
- The motor control unit (MCU) has failed and cannot drive the pump
- A small item like a sock got into the pump impeller and is jamming the blades
How to Fix It
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Unplug the washer. If the tub is full of water, bail out as much as you can with a bucket or towels.
You can also drain the tub manually using the drain hose — place it lower than the washer's drum level and let gravity do the work.
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Locate the pump filter access panel at the bottom front of the machine. Open it and place a shallow pan and towels to catch water.
There is usually a small drain hose tucked behind the panel. Pull it out and remove the cap to drain remaining water before unscrewing the filter.
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Unscrew the pump filter counterclockwise and remove it. Clean out any lint, coins, or debris you find.
Small items like hair clips, coins, and bits of tissue are the most common pump blockers. Clean the filter cavity too.
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Reinstall the filter, close the panel, and plug the washer back in. Run a Drain and Spin cycle.
If the tub drains and F33 is gone, you have solved the problem. Cleaning the filter every 1 to 3 months prevents this from recurring.
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If F33 returns, the pump motor itself may have failed and needs replacement.
A failed pump motor is beyond DIY for most people. A technician can confirm the diagnosis and replace the pump in 30 to 60 minutes.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the pump filter does not clear F33, the pump motor or MCU likely needs replacement. Drain pump replacement is a moderate DIY job — the pump is usually accessible from the front bottom of the machine. Professional drain pump replacement costs $120 to $200 including parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
My washer has water in it and the door is locked — how do I open it?
Most Whirlpool front-loaders have an emergency door release inside the filter access panel at the bottom front. Pull the small red or orange tab downward to release the door lock. Drain the water first if possible to prevent a flood when the door opens.
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Whirlpool recommends cleaning the pump filter every 1 to 3 months depending on how often you wash. Families that do daily laundry should clean it monthly. It takes less than 5 minutes and prevents most drain-related errors.
Can a small sock really stop a washing machine from draining?
Absolutely — small garments like socks, baby clothes, and handkerchiefs can slip through the drum holes and enter the pump. Once inside, they wrap around the impeller and prevent it from spinning. Always use a mesh laundry bag for small items to prevent this.