KitchenAid Washer Error Code F8E2 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

F8E2 means your KitchenAid washer is not draining — the water level in the tub did not drop far enough during the drain phase. A clogged pump filter, a kinked drain hose, or a failed drain pump are the most common causes. Cleaning the pump filter resolves F8E2 in many cases without any parts replacement.

Affected Models

KitchenAid Front-Load Washer
KitchenAid KHFW Series
KitchenAid KHHW Series
KitchenAid Artisan Series Washer

Common Causes

Drain pump filter is clogged with lint, coins, or small clothing items
Drain hose is kinked, blocked, or incorrectly installed at too low a height
Drain pump has failed and cannot pump water out of the tub
Drain hose is inserted too far into the standpipe, creating a siphoning effect
Foreign object (sock, underwire bra cup) is lodged in the pump impeller

How to Fix It

Locate the drain pump filter access panel at the lower front of the washer. Place a towel and a shallow container under it to catch water.

The access panel may be a small door or a panel that pops off. Consult your manual for the exact location on your model.
Slowly unscrew the filter cap — pause as water starts to drain so it does not spill uncontrollably.

There may be several liters of water behind the filter. Drain it gradually into the container before fully removing the cap.
Remove the filter and clear any lint, coins, or small objects caught in it. Rinse under running water.

Coins, hair ties, tissues, and small clothing items are frequently found in the pump filter — these are the most common cause of F8E2.
Check the drain hose at the back of the machine for kinks. The hose must be routed in a smooth curve with no sharp bends.

The drain hose connection into the standpipe should not be inserted more than 6 to 8 inches deep — too deep causes siphoning.
Reinstall the filter, run a short rinse-and-spin cycle, and check whether F8E2 clears.

A cycle that drains fully confirms the filter blockage was the cause.
If F8E2 returns after cleaning, have a technician test and replace the drain pump.

A pump that runs but does not drain effectively may have a damaged impeller or a seized motor.

When to Call a Professional

If cleaning the pump filter and checking the drain hose does not resolve F8E2, the drain pump needs to be tested and likely replaced. A technician can access the pump from the bottom front panel and replace it in one visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should the drain pump filter be cleaned?

KitchenAid recommends cleaning the drain pump filter every 1 to 3 months under normal use. If you wash items with tissues in pockets or have pets, clean it monthly.

Will the washer drain if I press Cancel?

Yes. Pressing Cancel triggers a drain cycle even when F8E2 is displayed. This will attempt to drain the tub so you can safely open the door.

How much does a drain pump replacement cost?

A replacement drain pump for a KitchenAid washer typically costs $40 to $100 for the part. With technician labor, the total repair usually runs $140 to $250.