Noise During the Wash Cycle on a Kenmore Dishwasher

Pump

• The pump inside the dishwasher produces a grinding noise if any debris or small food particles are caught during the wash cycle. To fix this problem, remove the spray arm as well as the bottom dish rack to get better access to the pump. Use a plastic knife or fork, or a toothpick, to remove any clogs that may be caught in or around the pump. You should also take this time to clean out the filter surrounding the pump.

Water Inlet Valve and Drain Hose

• If your dishwasher is creating a loud thumping towards the back of the unit, it may something is wrong with the water inlet valve. Check to see if the valve has any leaks or broken parts. If there isn’t something wrong with it, then it will need to be replaced. You can also find the drain hose near the valve, and if the hose bumps against the valve it can cause the same thumping noise. Wrap the hose in cloth to stop this from happening.

Motor or Heater Fan

• If your unit is creating a squealing noise it usually means there is something wrong with the heater fan or the motor bearings. These two components are found in the main part of the dishwasher. To check the two components, disconnect the dishwasher from the unit’s main power source and remove the front casing of the unit. If you notice that the bearings are wet, look at the main tub seal to see if it’s cracked or gone off its track. If either has happened, you will need to replace it. You also need to check the heater fan to see if it has become warped or rusty. If it has, then you will need to replace it, since it’s impossible to repair the fan.

Normal Noises

• Any surging noises you may hear coming from the unit are common and typically occur while the dishwasher is draining. A snapping sound happens when the detergent dispenser is opening during the cycle to release the detergent. Any rattling noises are from the dishes clanking together as the water rushes around them.