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A Roaring Noise in a GE Dishwasher

One thing GE dishwasher owners may not expect is for their appliance to make a roaring sound. Troubleshooting this noise can often help find and resolve the sound and return the dishwasher to its normal functioning.
  1. Normal Sounds

    • Before beginning a thorough inspection of the GE dishwasher, remember that some noise is to be expected when a dishwasher is in use. The dishwasher fan turns on and off throughout the wash cycle, as does the motor, and this operation may sound like a roaring noise. In addition, when the drain pump is in operation, the sound might be loud if there is a large quantity of water or debris being removed from the tub. These sounds are normal, especially if the roar is quiet in tone and short in duration.

    Water

    • When water enters a GE dishwasher, the sound may be loud or even sound like a roar. Although some noise is to be expected, if it seems excessive, you can turn off the dishwasher and look at the water valve. Make sure the water valve is turned on fully and also straighten out the water line to the dishwasher, as an obstructed water supply might make noise. Open the dishwasher and look inside at the water inlet valve on the bottom of the tub for signs of damage and to check whether the valve is wearing out. A worn-out water inlet valve can cause shaking and loud noises and needs to be replaced.

    Foreign Objects

    • Sometimes foreign objects get caught in the dishwasher components, creating a lot of noise or a roar during the wash cycle. Pull out the bottom rack and examine the bottom of the tub carefully, removing debris or objects in the filter, grinder or sump. You can also remove the bottom spray arm by pulling the arm straight up and then looking inside the tower for items that may have gotten caught inside and are causing a problem. Clean out the impeller inside the tower, which looks like a small fan, and remove any debris.

    Service

    • Unfortunately, if the roaring sound is not relatively quiet or short-lived and troubleshooting and cleaning efforts fail to stop the sound, there might be a more serious problem. The dishwasher motor may be wearing out, or the heater fan may be to blame due to rusted bearings. While some skilled homeowners might be able to address these issues, a professional will usually be best for these repair tasks.