How to Fix a Noisy Dishwasher

Every time you turn on your dishwasher, a rattling sound rocks the kitchen, or perhaps it's more of a clanking or a grinding sound. No matter what the noise is, there are several possibilities as to its source. In this article, you'll learn how to identify where the noise may be coming from and how to fix it.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• New heater fan, inlet valve, or motor (if necessary)

Instructions

1. Look at the heater fan to check for rusty or squeaky parts. If defective parts are found, replace the fan. If not, go on to the next step.

2. Replace the water inlet valve, which is located at the bottom of one of the sides of the dishwasher, beneath the lower access panel. As a water inlet valve ages, it can sometimes slowly stop working correctly, switching between "on" and "off" every few seconds. This can cause a shaking and rattling noise. If this does not fix the noise, go on to the next step.

3. Remove the lower rack and the lower spray arm from the dishwasher, removing any screws as needed to do so.

4. Beneath the lower spray arm is a pump that contains a propeller. Check the pump for debris (like small bones, seeds, or fragments of glass) that might be causing the noise. If this does not fix the noise, go on to the next step.

5. Beneath the pump is the dishwasher's motor. Check to see if the plastic dish at the top of the motor has broken off. If it has, it may be rattling when the motor is on and causing the noise. In this case, replace the entire motor.

6. Check the bearings on the motor. If they are worn out, replace them.

7. If you cannot trace the noise to its source, try replacing the motor.

Tips & Warnings

• Always unplug the dishwasher or turn off the circuit breaker before attempting a repair.

References

• Repair Clinic: What's Wrong With Your Dishwasher?