Written by
Daniel Reeves Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Whirlpool®
Code overviewat a glance.
The facts for this Whirlpool error, a plain-language snapshot, and what to confirm against your model number.
E21
Error codeE21
ApplianceMicrowave
Content status
Verified
Quick answer
The thermal sensor circuit is open on E21; sensor, control board or wiring are the possibilities.
Model note: Whirlpool reuses codes across series and model years, so E21 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Whirlpool®
What this codemay mean.
A plain-language reading of the code — always confirm against your model’s documentation.
Mean
Thermal sensor circuit open.
An open thermal sensor circuit
The control board received an open reading from the thermal sensor circuit. Three things may be behind it: the Thermal Sensor, the Appliance Control Board and the associated wiring.
Reset it
Breaker off for 1 minute.
Breaker on.
Monitor for 1 minute.
Verify the microwave operates.
Next to E21
E22 reports a short instead of an open, and E24 is an overheat condition.
Stop immediately if you notice smoke, sparks, a burning smell, gas odor, or water near electrical parts.
Safe
Important
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Whirlpool®
Seeing this codeon your appliance?
Book an Whirlpool appliance service visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
Book
Experienced technicians, clear diagnostics, and workmanship coverage on completed repairs.