Why Is My Belmont Dishwasher Making Loud Sounds?

Unusual Noises? Let’s Break Down What They Mean

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Dishwashers are supposed to hum quietly in the background — not bang, rattle, or screech. So when yours starts making loud or unfamiliar sounds, it’s a clear signal that something isn’t working quite right. For Belmont homeowners, diagnosing the noise can help prevent a minor issue from becoming a major repair.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common dishwasher noises, what they mean, and what steps you can take next.

Loud Grinding or Buzzing Sounds

Grinding sounds often indicate a problem with the pump motor or a foreign object stuck in the chopper blade. Possible culprits include:

  • Small utensils or bits of broken glass from dishes
  • Food particles clogging the drain pump or blade assembly
  • Hard water scale buildup near moving parts

In Belmont homes with mineral-heavy water, scale buildup can worsen this issue over time — especially if a water softener isn’t used.

Humming Without Action

A steady humming sound (with no water movement or spray arm rotation) could point to a stuck motor or jammed impeller. It can also be a sign that:

  • The circulation motor is attempting to start but isn’t functioning properly
  • The drain pump is clogged or stuck mid-cycle

If the humming continues for multiple cycles, it’s best to shut off the unit and schedule an inspection to prevent further damage to the motor.

Rattling or Clanking Sounds

This is one of the more common complaints — and often it’s caused by dishes knocking into each other or improperly loaded items. Before assuming a mechanical problem, check:

  • That pots, lids, or silverware aren’t loosely stacked or angled against spray arms
  • That plastic bowls or lightweight items aren’t flipping or floating around during cycles

When racks are overloaded, it’s easy for dishes to shift during wash cycles and create repetitive knocking sounds. Strategic loading can eliminate this entirely.

High-Pitched Whining or Squealing

This noise may indicate worn-out bearings in the circulation motor or problems with the pump shaft. It could also stem from:

  • Spray arms rubbing against loaded dishes
  • Improper water pressure reaching the inlet valve
  • A failing motor that’s starting to seize up

For Belmont residents using older or high-mileage dishwashers, this may be one of the first signs that a key component is approaching failure.

Thumping or Sloshing Noises

While some water movement noise is normal, unusually loud thumping or sloshing could suggest a problem with:

  • Spray arms hitting large dishes or being blocked by pans
  • Internal water pressure irregularities
  • Loose mounting hardware on the unit or interior racks

Double-check spray arm rotation and ensure no large items are obstructing movement. If the sound persists with no loading issues, internal inspection may be necessary.

When to Schedule Service

Not all dishwasher noise is cause for concern — but when the sounds become excessive, mechanical, or consistent, it’s worth having the unit checked out. Early intervention can prevent worn parts from damaging other components or leading to water leaks.

For Belmont homeowners, help is nearby. Support is available for all major brands, including GE, Whirlpool, Bosch, Samsung, and more — with diagnostics designed to pinpoint the issue quickly and safely.

Need Quiet Back in Your Kitchen?

If your dishwasher sounds more like a construction site than a cleaning cycle, it’s time to get things checked out. From motor malfunctions to loading adjustments, the right fix can restore your kitchen’s calm in no time.

Call today to request service for your noisy dishwasher in Belmont — and take the first step toward a quieter, smoother kitchen routine.