A dishwasher making a loud noise can be alarming, especially if the sound is new or getting worse. At Appliance Medic Pro, noisy dishwashers are a frequent service call, and the type of noise often tells us exactly what’s wrong.
Why is my dishwasher making a loud noise?
From real technician experience, loud dishwasher noises usually come from loose items, worn bearings, damaged pumps, or spray arm issues. Identifying when the noise occurs—during wash or drain—is key.
Common Dishwasher Noises and Their Causes
1. Grinding or Crunching Noise (Most Common)
Often caused by:
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Food debris
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Broken glass
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Small utensils are hitting the pump
This should be addressed immediately to avoid pump damage.
2. Rattling or Clanking Sound
Common reasons include:
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Dishes touching the spray arms
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Loose racks or rails
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Improper loading
Usually easy to fix.
3. Buzzing or Humming Noise
A buzzing sound may indicate:
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Drain pump obstruction
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Electrical hum from the motor
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Pump struggling to drain
4. Screeching or Squealing Noise
High-pitched noises often come from:
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Worn motor bearings
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Failing circulation pump
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Dry or damaged seals
This typically requires professional repair.
5. Thumping or Knocking
Thumping sounds can be caused by:
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Spray arms are hitting the dishes
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Loose internal components
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Improper rack positioning
What You Can Safely Check Yourself
Before calling a technician:
✅ Stop the cycle and inspect for debris
✅ Remove and clean the filter
✅ Check spray arms for obstructions
✅ Reload dishes correctly
✅ Listen for when the noise occurs
❌ Do not continue running the dishwasher if grinding persists.
When to Call a Professional
Call Appliance Medic Pro if:
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Noise is loud or worsening
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Grinding or screeching continues
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The dishwasher doesn’t clean properly
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Water isn’t draining correctly
Professional service prevents major failures.
Dishwasher Noise Repair Cost
Typical repair ranges:
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Debris removal and cleaning: $100–$150
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Spray arm replacement: $100–$200
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Drain or circulation pump replacement: $200–$450
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Motor or bearing repair: $300–$600
How to Prevent Dishwasher Noise
From technician experience:
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Scrape food before loading
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Load dishes properly
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Clean the filter regularly
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Inspect spray arms monthly
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to run a noisy dishwasher?
A: Minor rattles are okay, but grinding or screeching is not.
Q: Why does my dishwasher only make noise during draining?
A: Likely a drain pump obstruction or failure.
Q: Can loud noises damage my dishwasher?
A: Yes, especially if caused by pump or motor issues.
