Dishwashers typically operate with a low hum, but unusual noises can indicate issues requiring attention. Here are the most common reasons for dishwasher noise and tips for repair:
1. Rattling or Clunking Noise
Cause: Improperly loaded dishes or utensils hitting each other or the spray arms.
Repair Hints:
Reorganize dishes and utensils to ensure they are secure and not touching the spray arms.
Avoid overloading the dishwasher.
Use dishwasher-safe items to prevent fragile items from breaking.
2. Grinding Noise
Cause: Food debris caught in the dishwasher’s chopper blade or impeller.
Repair Hints:
Turn off and unplug the dishwasher.
Remove the lower spray arm and access the chopper area.
Clean out any debris and reassemble.
3. Humming Noise
Cause: A malfunctioning motor or a clogged pump.
Repair Hints:
Inspect the motor for wear or damage; replace it if needed.
Clean the pump and ensure there are no blockages in the impeller or filter.
4. Buzzing Noise
Cause: Water inlet valve vibrating due to low water pressure or normal operation.
Repair Hints:
Check household water pressure and ensure it meets the dishwasher’s requirements.
Replace the water inlet valve if buzzing persists and affects operation.
5. Squealing Noise
Cause: A worn or misaligned dishwasher door seal or faulty pump bearings.
Repair Hints:
Inspect the door seal for damage or misalignment and replace if necessary.
Replace the pump bearings if they show signs of wear.
6. Clicking Noise
Cause: Spray arms rotating and hitting dishes, or normal solenoid operation during cycles.
Repair Hints:
Ensure dishes are loaded properly to avoid interference with the spray arms.
If the noise is from the solenoid, it is usually normal unless accompanied by operational issues.
7. Thumping Noise
Cause: Kinked or improperly secured water supply or drain hoses.
Repair Hints:
Inspect and straighten the hoses.
Secure hoses with clamps to prevent movement during operation.
8. Whining Noise
Cause: Worn pump motor or impeller.
Repair Hints:
Inspect the pump motor and impeller for damage.
Replace worn components to restore quiet operation.
9. Loud Banging Noise
Cause: "Water hammer" caused by sudden changes in water flow or pressure.
Repair Hints:
Install a water hammer arrestor on the water supply line to dampen pressure changes.
Check for loose plumbing and secure pipes.
10. Vibrating Noise
Cause: The dishwasher is not leveled, causing vibrations during operation.
Repair Hints:
Use a level to check the dishwasher’s alignment.
Adjust the leveling legs to stabilize the unit.
General Maintenance Tips for Reducing Noise
Clean Filters Regularly: Clogged filters can cause strain on the pump, leading to excessive noise.
Inspect and Tighten Parts: Loose screws or components can rattle during cycles.
Replace Worn Components: Replace worn seals, bearings, or spray arms that may cause operational noise.
Choose a Quieter Model: If your dishwasher is older, newer models are designed to be quieter and more efficient.