When your dishwasher runs, do you hear a loud grinding noise? Dishwashers are designed to be quiet, but it is normal to hear noises during cleaning. You may have a serious problem if you hear a loud grinding noise from your dishwasher.
In this article, we discuss possible causes to explain why your dishwasher is making a grinding noise and how to troubleshoot the issue.
How is a Standard Dishwasher Supposed to Sound?
However, to proceed with the causes of a grinding noise, it is essential to review what kinds of sounds a dishwasher normally makes. During the wash cycle, a low hum or whirring sound is heard when the motor and pump run. A faint swish can also be expected as water is sprinkled on your dishes. Some models have a chopping blade that grinds large food particles, and it can make a little clicking. All these sounds are completely natural for your dishwasher and do not call for concern.
5 Reasons Your Dishwasher Is Making a Grinding Noise
Here are five possible reasons your dishwasher makes a loud grinding noise when it runs.
1. Broken or worn out parts
A grinding noise from your dishwasher might be caused by broken or worn-out parts of the machine. The common causes are worn-out motor bearings, and the pump assembly. These parts are subject to wear and tear over time and may need replacement.
2. Foreign objects in the dishwasher
At times, small utensils or food pieces may become stuck in the pump or chopper blade, causing a grinding sound. Examine the bottom of your dishwasher for any items that don’t belong there and remove them cautiously.
3. Clogged spray arms
A grinding noise in your dishwasher may indicate clogged spray arms. This happens when large food particles or other objects clog the spray arm’s nozzles. Clean the spray arm using a toothpick or a small brush to remove the blockages from the holes.
4. Loose or broken dishes
Sometimes, a loose or broken dish causes a grinding sound when being moved around in the dishwasher during the wash cycle. Position all dishes properly on the racks before running a cycle.
5. Malfunctioning motor or pump
If none of the above causes indicate the source of the grinding noise, the motor may be bad or even the pump. This would require the expertise of a professional to diagnose and repair.
DIY tips for Repairing a Dishwasher
Tip 1: clean the dishwasher
Normal care of your dishwasher prevents grinding noises from being heard. Wipe out the remaining litter and food particles from the dishwasher bottom and a good wipe on the spray arms. You can also use a cycle with white vinegar and baking soda to eliminate clogs or residue.
Tip 2: check the inlet valve
The inlet valve is responsible for taking water to the dishwasher. It produces a grinding sound when it is blocked or not working properly. Check for obstructions and replace the valve if necessary.
When to Contact a Professional Appliance Repair Company
But if the do-it-yourself tips provided above don’t work, it is time to contact a professional appliance repair company. A qualified technician can determine the problem and carry out relevant repairs. Some special tools and parts they have access to cannot be found in your home. If your dishwasher is generating a loud grinding sound, do not keep using it, as it may destroy your device.
It is impossible to ignore your dishwasher’s grinding noise. You can try to solve this issue yourself; however, if the grinding sound persists, consider contacting a home appliance repair company.
Do not forget, if you are in doubt or feel uncomfortable trying to handle a DIY, it is better to call a professional than make the problem worse.
Pete’s Appliances provides reliable and speedy home appliance repair in Boston.