You might be wondering why your dishwasher is making a weird humming noise. It’s annoying, right? But don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many dishwashers can start making strange sounds over time.
It could be something simple like the motor running. Sometimes, it hums when it’s draining water or when there’s something small stuck. Check inside to see if anything is blocking the spray arms or filter. If everything looks clear, it might just be the dishwasher doing its job.
This blog post will help you figure out why your dishwasher is humming and what you can do to fix it. We’ll go over some common reasons and easy solutions so you can get your dishwasher back to its quiet self in no time. Let’s dive in and solve this together!
Common Causes of Humming Noise in Dishwashers
If your dishwasher is making a humming noise, it can be a bit annoying. But don’t worry, there are a few common reasons this might happen.
Water Pump
One common cause of humming is the water pump. The pump helps move water around in the dishwasher. If it gets clogged with food or debris, it might make a humming noise. Cleaning the pump can often fix this problem.
Motor
Another possible reason is the motor. The motor runs the dishwasher’s moving parts. If the motor is wearing out, it might start to hum. In this case, the motor may need to be replaced.
Fan
Some dishwashers have a fan to help with drying. If the fan blades get dirty or something is stuck in them, you might hear a humming sound. Cleaning the fan can help stop the noise.
Loose Parts
Loose parts inside the dishwasher can also cause a humming noise. For example, a loose screw or a part that’s not tight enough might vibrate and create a hum. Tightening these parts can often solve the issue.
Normal Operation
Sometimes, a slight humming noise is just part of the dishwasher’s normal operation. As long as the noise isn’t too loud or disruptive, it may not be a problem.
If the humming noise continues or gets worse, it might be a good idea to have a professional take a look.
How to Diagnose the Source of the Humming Noise
If your dishwasher is making a humming noise, it might mean something isn’t working right. Here’s how to figure out where the noise is coming from.
Check the Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve controls the water flow into the dishwasher. If it’s not working correctly, it can cause a humming noise. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it. Then, check the valve for any blockages or damage. If it’s clogged or broken, it might need to be cleaned or replaced.
Look at the Motor
The motor helps the dishwasher run. If it’s old or damaged, it could be the reason for the humming noise. Listen carefully when the dishwasher is on. If the motor is loud or making strange sounds, it might be time to replace it.
Inspect the Drain Pump
The drain pump moves the water out of the dishwasher. If it’s blocked or has something stuck inside, it can hum. Check the drain pump for any obstructions. Cleaning it out might stop the noise.
Examine the Spray Arms
Spray arms spin and spray water to clean dishes. Sometimes, they get stuck or blocked, causing a humming sound. Make sure they move freely and aren’t clogged.
If you try these steps and the noise doesn’t stop, it might be best to call a professional to check your dishwasher.
Simple Fixes for a Humming Dishwasher
1. Check for Obstructions
Start by opening your dishwasher door and looking inside. The spray arms are the parts that spin around and spray water to clean your dishes. If there are any utensils, food bits, or other objects stuck in or around these arms, they can stop the arms from moving. This can make your dishwasher hum but not clean well.
To fix this, you need to carefully take out any items that don’t belong. Look closely at the spray arms and see if they can spin freely. Sometimes, food particles or small pieces of broken dishes can get stuck and block the spray arms. If you find anything blocking them, gently remove it.
Next, check the area around the spray arms for any debris. If you see food or other things, clean them off. This will help the spray arms to move properly and spray water where it needs to go. After removing any obstructions, put everything back in place and make sure the spray arms can turn easily. Close the door and start a short cycle to see if the humming noise stops.
If the spray arms are still not spinning or if there are still obstructions, you might need to look at the other parts of the dishwasher for issues. However, cleaning out the spray arms and removing any blockages is a good first step to solve the humming problem.
2. Inspect the Drain
The drain is an important part of your dishwasher. It helps get rid of the dirty water after a wash. If the drain gets blocked, it can cause a humming noise and prevent your dishes from getting cleaned properly.
First, turn off your dishwasher and open the door. Look at the bottom of the dishwasher where the water drains out. You might see food bits or other debris in the drain area. Use a towel or a sponge to wipe away any visible dirt.
If you can, remove the drain cover. This will let you see more of the drain and get rid of any trapped food. Check the drain for any blockages. If you find anything, carefully remove it. Make sure that the drain can let water flow out easily.
After cleaning the drain, put the cover back in place. Close the dishwasher door and turn it back on. Run a short cycle to check if the humming noise is gone. If the noise continues, you may need to look at other parts of the dishwasher for problems, but cleaning the drain is a good start.
3. Examine the Dishwasher Filter
Most dishwashers have a filter that catches food particles and other debris. If this filter gets clogged, it can cause a humming noise and make your dishwasher less effective at cleaning.
To find the filter, open your dishwasher and look at the bottom. The filter is usually a round or rectangular part. You may need to twist or pull it out. Once you have the filter out, rinse it under warm running water. Use a brush or sponge to clean off any food or grease stuck to it.
After cleaning, let the filter dry completely before putting it back. Place it back into its slot and make sure it fits snugly. Close the dishwasher door and turn it on. Run a short cycle to see if the humming noise has stopped. If the noise is still there, you may need to check other parts of the dishwasher for issues, but cleaning the filter is an important step.
4. Look at the Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve controls how much water goes into your dishwasher. If this valve gets clogged or damaged, it can cause a humming noise. Checking and cleaning the valve can sometimes fix the problem.
First, turn off the power to your dishwasher to keep yourself safe. The water inlet valve is usually located at the bottom of the dishwasher or where the water line connects. You may need to remove a panel or cover to access it.
Once you find the valve, check it for any signs of damage or clogging. If it looks dirty, clean it gently. Use a cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. If the valve is damaged, you may need to replace it.
After cleaning or replacing the valve, put everything back together and turn the power back on. Run a short cycle to see if the humming noise has stopped. If the noise continues, there might be another issue with your dishwasher.
5. Check the Drain Pump
The drain pump helps remove the water from your dishwasher. If this pump is blocked or not working properly, it can cause a humming noise. Checking the pump can help you figure out if it’s the cause of the problem.
To start, turn off the power to the dishwasher. Open the door and look for the drain pump, which is usually at the bottom of the dishwasher. You may need to remove a cover or panel to see it better.
Check the pump for any debris or objects that might be blocking it. Gently remove anything you find. Also, check if the pump can spin freely. If it’s stuck or making a strange noise, it might be broken and need replacing.
Once you’ve checked and cleaned the pump, put everything back in place. Turn the power back on and run a short cycle to see if the humming noise is gone. If the noise continues, it might be best to call a technician for help.
When to Call a Professional for Dishwasher Repairs
If you’ve tried fixing your dishwasher and it’s still making a humming noise or not cleaning dishes properly, it might be time to call a professional. You should also get help if you notice leaks, a broken spray arm, or if the dishwasher won’t start at all.
If you’re not comfortable checking parts like the water inlet valve or drain pump, it’s best to ask for expert help. A technician can safely find and fix problems that are too tricky or dangerous to handle on your own. Don’t wait too long—getting help early can save you from bigger issues.
I hope this guide helped you understand why your dishwasher is making a humming noise. If you follow these tips and check the common causes, you can fix the problem. If not, consider calling a professional to help. Remember, keeping your dishwasher clean can prevent future issues.
Questions in Your Mind
Is it Safe to Use a Dishwasher That Hums?
Using a dishwasher that hums is generally safe, but it may not be cleaning your dishes properly. A humming sound can indicate a problem with the spray arms, drain, or other parts. It’s a good idea to check for simple issues yourself or call a professional if the noise continues.
Can a Humming Dishwasher Cause Damage?
Yes, a humming dishwasher can sometimes cause damage if the problem isn’t fixed. If parts are blocked or not working correctly, it can strain the motor or other components. It’s best to address the issue early to prevent further damage.
Do I Need to Turn Off the Power to Fix a Humming Dishwasher?
Yes, you should turn off the power to your dishwasher before checking or repairing any parts. This ensures your safety while inspecting or cleaning components like the drain pump or water inlet valve.
Is it Normal for a Dishwasher to Hum During Use?
A slight humming noise is normal when a dishwasher is running, especially when water is being pumped in or out. However, if the humming is loud or unusual, it may indicate a problem that needs attention.
Can a Clogged Filter Cause a Humming Noise?
Yes, a clogged filter can cause a humming noise. When the filter is blocked, it can prevent water from flowing properly, which may lead to unusual sounds. Cleaning the filter can often resolve the issue.
Do I Need to Replace the Drain Pump if My Dishwasher Hums?
Not always. A humming noise could be caused by something blocking the drain pump rather than a fault with the pump itself. Check for debris around the pump first. If it still hums after cleaning, you might need to replace the pump.
Is it Possible to Fix a Dishwasher Humming Noise Without a Professional?
Yes, many common issues causing a humming noise can be fixed without professional help. Check for obstructions, clean the filter, and inspect the drain and water inlet valve. If these steps don’t work, it may be time to call a technician.
Can Low Water Pressure Cause a Dishwasher to Hum?
Yes, low water pressure can cause a dishwasher to hum. If the water supply is not adequate, the dishwasher may make unusual noises. Check the water supply and ensure there are no issues with the water inlet valve.
Do I Need to Use Special Tools to Inspect a Humming Dishwasher?
You may need some basic tools like screwdrivers to access parts like the drain pump or filter. For most common issues, simple tools and a flashlight are enough to inspect and clean your dishwasher.
Is it Worth Fixing a Dishwasher if It’s Old and Humming?
It depends on the age and condition of the dishwasher. If it’s older and the repair costs are high, it might be better to replace it with a new one. However, if it’s relatively new, fixing it could be a cost-effective option.
