My Dishwasher Vibrates When Filling With Water

Water Supply

• The first place to start when the dishwasher shakes when filling with water is the water supply source. Check the water faucet that connects to the dishwasher, usually under the kitchen sink, and make sure the water valve is open all the way. Turn the valve counterclockwise to open. You can also disconnect the water hose to make sure there are no obstructions to the water flow. Clean out the hose and the inlet screens at the dishwasher point where the hose connects with a soft brush, then replace the hose and keep the hose straight.

Dishwasher Loading

• If the dishwasher vibrates when filling with water sometimes but not during every load, the problem may be the way the dishwasher is loaded. Place items securely in the dishwasher racks, using the tines and pins as necessary to secure light or delicate items. Don’t nest items together and space large or heavy items apart so that they don’t knock against each other or the dishwasher wall, which can cause vibration when water is entering the dishwasher.

Spray Arms

• The spray arm may also be to blame for a vibrating noise during the water fill, especially if the spray arm is obstructed by other items or clogged with debris. Spin the spray arms every time you load the dishwasher to make sure the arm isn’t blocked from moving in a full circle. Look at all the spray jets on the spray arms and use a small, soft brush to clean out any debris in the jets. If the jets are blocked, water cannot exit the jets with enough force to clean the dishes and the obstruction might be enough to cause vibration.

Water Inlet Valve

• The water inlet valve in most dishwashers operates quietly for many years and is something most users never have to think about. However, if the dishwasher is shaking, rattling or vibrating every time the water turns on and enters the dishwasher, the water inlet valve may be starting to fail. When this occurs, the dishwasher is very loud and moves the water lines, causing vibration. Call a service professional if other troubleshooting efforts fail and you suspect the water inlet valve may be to blame.