A dishwasher is typically a "quiet" appliance. If your machine suddenly starts making unusual noises, it's a sign that it needs checking. Below are 6 common causes.
1. Food debris in the pump / filter
Symptom: A "rumbling" or "clanking" sound from the bottom of the machine. Solution: Remove and clean the bottom filter; if the noise persists, a technician should inspect the pump.
2. Spray arm hitting dishes
If dishes are stacked too high or long utensils (ladles, knives) are placed upright, the spray arm will hit them. Solution: Rearrange dishes, lay utensils flat.
3. Kinked / incorrectly installed drain hose
Symptom: A "splashing" sound when the drain pump is operating. Solution: Check the drain hose, ensuring it's installed at the correct height (50–60cm from the floor).
4. Water pump bearings
After several years of use, the bearings can wear out. A continuous metallic screeching sound. A technician needs to replace the bearings.
5. Limescale / insufficient salt
When there is a lot of limescale, the pump has to work harder. Solution: Add dishwasher salt and run an empty cleaning cycle.
6. Uneven feet, machine vibrates
If the machine shakes slightly during operation, adjust the four feet to balance it. The noise can be significantly reduced.
When to call a technician?
If you've checked the 6 points above and the machine is still making strange noises, or if it shows an error code + doesn't drain completely, call a technician. Continued use could lead to more severe damage.
Prevention
Use a complete set of tablets + salt + rinse aid, scrape off large food debris before loading dishes, and clean regularly — your machine will last longer and make fewer unusual noises.