Dishwasher Making Loud Noise
If your dishwasher is making a loud noise, the type of sound is the most useful clue to identifying the cause. Grinding, rattling, banging and humming all point to different faults, some of which can be resolved at home while others require a qualified engineer.
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Why Is My Dishwasher Making a Loud Noise?
Some noise during a dishwasher cycle is completely normal — the sound of water spraying, the pump running and the detergent dispenser opening are all part of a standard cycle. However, if your dishwasher is making an unusual or particularly loud noise, the type of sound is the most useful clue to identifying the cause.
Common Causes
Rattling — items not loaded correctly
The most common cause. If items in the racks are loose or poorly positioned, they will rattle against each other or the spray arms during the cycle. Ensure all items are loaded securely and that taller items are not blocking the rotation of the spray arms.
Thumping — spray arm hitting an item
If a spray arm is catching on an item in the rack during rotation, it will produce a regular thumping noise. Check that nothing is overhanging the racks and obstructing the spray arms.
Grinding — blocked filter or foreign object in pump
A grinding or crunching noise during the cycle usually indicates a foreign object such as a piece of broken glass, a bone fragment or a label that has made its way into the filter or pump area.
Loud humming or buzzing — water inlet or pump issue
A loud constant humming or buzzing can indicate that the water inlet valve is struggling to open, the circulation pump is partially blocked, or the drain pump is running against a blockage.
Squealing — worn pump bearings
A high-pitched squealing noise during the wash phase can indicate that the circulation pump bearings are worn and the pump is beginning to fail.
Knocking during drain — drain hose siphoning
A knocking or banging sound during the drain phase can be caused by the drain hose siphoning water back into the machine. Ensure the drain hose is correctly positioned and not inserted too far into the standpipe.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Check the loading
Remove all dishes and reload the dishwasher carefully. Ensure nothing is overhanging the racks and that the spray arms can rotate freely. Check that lightweight items such as plastic containers are secured so they cannot move during the cycle.
Clean the filter
Remove the filter assembly and clean it thoroughly. Check the area around the filter and pump housing for any debris, broken glass or foreign objects.
Check the spray arms
Remove the spray arms and check they are not cracked or blocked. Ensure they refit correctly and spin freely.
Check the drain hose position
Ensure the drain hose is not inserted too far into the standpipe and that it has a high loop to prevent siphoning.
Reset the machine
Switch the dishwasher off at the mains and leave it unplugged for a few minutes. Plug back in and run a cycle to see if the noise persists.
When To Contact A Professional
If the noise persists after checking the loading, filter and spray arms, there may be a fault with the circulation pump or drain pump that requires professional diagnosis and repair. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Dishwasher Fault Guides
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