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Noisy KitchenAid Dishwashers

While dishwashers today are certainly quieter than the models of the past, your KitchenAid dishwasher still makes noise as it cleans your dishes. These noises might include chopping, thumping or snapping. Most of these noises are normal, but by troubleshooting your dishwasher’s process, you can either lessen the noise or make sure it’s not a sign of a malfunction.
  1. Chopping, Grinding or Buzzing

    • During the drain cycle it’s normal to hear chopping, grinding or buzzing. The noise is not a problem unless it’s accompanied by a failure to drain. If you notice your KitchenAid dishwasher isn’t draining, check the filter in the bottom of the unit to see if there are foreign objects or obstructions in it. If needed, check the drain hose for bends or kinks, which also can prevent the unit from draining.

    Thumping

    • Your KitchenAid dishwasher may make thumping noises during the cycle if the spray arm bumps up against dishes as it rotates. Prevent that by taking special care when positioning the dishes in your unit. Load the items so that the dishes do not touch each other. Ensure that the spray arm can rotate freely before closing the dishwasher door.

    Snapping

    • You often hear a snapping noise at least once during every KitchenAid dishwasher cycle. It’s the noise the detergent dispenser lid makes when it opens to dispense the soap. If you don't hear it, check the detergent dispenser when you open the dishwasher. If there is still soap in it, make sure you’re using the correct amount of soap; check the packaging of your dishwasher soap.

    Loud

    • If your KitchenAid dishwasher is loud in general, it may be the unit rattling against the trim strips that hold it in place under the counter. Refer to your installation guide or contact KitchenAid customer service for a copy of the manual for your specific dishwasher. Based on the installation instructions, use a screwdriver to tighten the trim strips in place and decrease the rattling noise.