Does this guide apply to your appliance?

Match the brand, device type and complete display code. The same code can mean something different on another product family or market; a series name does not confirm every model in that series.

Model and family references in this record:

E21C2

Likely causes

  • Kinked, twisted or blocked drain hose
  • Blocked drain-pump filter or foreign object near the pump
  • Blocked household sink or waste drain
  • Drain hose installed at an unsuitable height or inserted too far into the drain
  • Excessive detergent foam
  • A failing or damaged drain pump

What to try

Inspect the drain hose and household drain

Easy
  1. Switch off and unplug the washer-dryer.
  2. Check the full drain hose for kinks, twists or visible blockage.
  3. Confirm that the drain outlet is approximately 60–100 cm above the appliance base and that the hose is generally inserted no more than 10 cm, unless the model manual specifies otherwise.
  4. Check the household sink or waste drain for blockage. If appropriate, test drainage by directing the hose into a suitable bowl or sink while keeping the hose secure.
  5. Reconnect the hose correctly and run a suitable drain or rinse programme.

This step is marked caution. Stop if you are not qualified to continue.

Source for this check: support.electrolux.co.uk

Clean the drain-pump filter

Moderate
  1. Switch off and unplug the appliance, and wait for any hot water to cool.
  2. Place towels and a shallow container below the filter access point.
  3. Open the filter slowly and drain the water according to the model manual; some models may have an emergency-drain method.
  4. Remove lint, coins and other visible foreign objects from the filter.
  5. Check the pump impeller only if it is visibly accessible; do not force it.
  6. Refit the filter securely and check for leaks before starting a drain programme.

This step is marked caution. Stop if you are not qualified to continue.

Source for this check: support.electrolux.co.uk

Reduce detergent foaming and reset after cooling

Easy
  1. Check whether the appliance or drained water contains unusually heavy foam.
  2. Use the detergent quantity and type specified for the load and water conditions; reduce the amount if excessive foaming is occurring.
  3. After clearing the drainage issue, leave the unplugged appliance to cool if the pump may have overheated.
  4. Allow approximately 1–2 hours for the pump’s thermal protection to reset when applicable.
  5. Reconnect the appliance and run a drain or rinse programme.

Source for this check: support.electrolux.co.uk

Arrange professional service if E20 returns

Professional

This is a service referral, not a do-it-yourself repair procedure.

  1. Do not continue operating the appliance if it leaks, will not drain, or makes abnormal pump noises.
  2. If the hose, household drain and filter are clear, record when E20 appears and any sounds or symptoms.
  3. Check the model number and consult the model-specific manual before booking service.
  4. Contact an authorised AEG service provider or qualified appliance technician for internal diagnosis and repair.

This step is marked professional. Stop if you are not qualified to continue.

Source for this check: support.electrolux.co.uk

The code returned or the check did not help?

Avoid repeated resets and do not select a replacement part from the code alone. Record the exact code, full model number, when it appeared, and the checks you tried with their results. Share these details with the manufacturer or service technician.

Disconnecting power does not establish that internal components are safe to touch. This guide does not authorize opening electrical components or bypassing safety devices.

Related error codes

References