Why is my dishwasher making noise?

If your dishwasher is getting loud or making a weird noise, you should check the heater fan, motor, water-inlet valve, and pump. Sometimes the bearings in the heater fan may get worn out or rust. If this happens, it may become very noisy, either grinding on the bearings, or scraping against the rust. If this happens you need to replace the fan motor. Sometimes, a fan blade may come loose, and you need to replace it.

Sometimes it’s the motor that makes the noise you hear. The motor has bearings in it which may become worn or get rusty. When the bearings get worn, they allow the shaft to wobble which can get quite loud. If there is a spin seal leak, water may get inside the motor, washing the bearing grease away. If the spin seal is leaking, you’ll notice water leaking from under the dishwasher.

There is also a disc attached to the top of the motor called a slinger. It sometimes breaks off and spins around the motor's shaft while it turns, causing some noises. You will need to replace the motor if the bearings are bad. You also need to replace the motor if the slinger is broken as well.

Newer dishwashers may make a squealing or rattling noise on the first run. This is because it has not had any water in it yet, and the motor seals are dry. You may hear this in a unit that hasn't been run in a week or more as well. You should operate the dishwasher regularly to keep the sump water from getting smelly, and to keep the seals lubricated. You can add a quart of water to the sump before running it.

Rattling noises may be produced by dishes rattling inside the dishwasher due to the water pressure from the sprayer arms on the dishes. To determine if the rattling is a loading issue, run the unit empty. If the sound is persistent, it may be that there is debris in the pump.

dishwasher water-inlet valves are noted to make a hum that lasts about 60-90 seconds several times during a washing cycle. This hum is a different hum than the sound of the motor running.

A rhythmic knocking or thumping sound may be caused the sprayer arms hitting something as they go around and around. Rearrange the dishes and resume the wash.

A clunking or clanking may be heard when the detergent cup or detergent dispenser opens; while a clicking sound may be produced by the timer or electronic control panel.

A solenoid makes a snap sound when it opens. This happens about six times during each load.

Pipes rattling or banging may be caused by a water hammer effect. Water hammer sounds are caused by a valve closing in the system, and yet the water in the pipe is still flowing because of its kinetic energy. The sound is caused by the water slamming into the closed section of pipe. A plumber can install an anti-hammer device.

Small objects can sometimes get stuck in the pump. When this occurs, you’ll need to open the pump and then remove the item that is making the noise or replace the pump. The dishwasher pump is usually mounted directly to the motor and runs off the motor as well. The pump is also attached to the bottom of your dishwasher.

Simple appliance fixes - How long should your appliance last?

Two excellent articles on simple appliance repair that could help you save some money.

The first is from Popular Mechanics and offers some repair tips for small appliances. If a simple and easy fix repairs your vacuum or blender then it is worth doing and saving the extra money. Many of these tips come from their book, “When Duct Tape Just Isn't Enough.”

Problem: Blender blades not spinning but motor is making noise

Solution: Syrup and gooey liquids can cause the blades to get stuck to the housing. Soak the entire blade assembly in hot soapy water for about fifteen minutes and rinse with hot water.

Problem: Vacuum has suction, yet nothing is being vacuumed up and you have company coming!

Solution: Check the belt, it is probably broken. A quick fix, use a nylon stocking stretched tight around the rollers and knotted securely for a makeshift belt. Be sure to order a new vacuum belt to replace this temporary fix.

Problem: Countertop Microwave –Microwaves can be dangerous to fix yourself as even a small unit can hold several hundred volts as part of its power supply. However, it might be worth calling in a professional as it might need something as small as a microwave oven fuse.

Solution: Cosmetic fixes such as scratches on the microwave paint and replacement of the circular glass plate that you set food on (aka the cooking tray), are microwave oven parts you can order online and replace yourself. Microwave Oven Repair Help and Replacement Parts

So what if one of your appliances breaks? How do you know when to replace or repair it?

A good rule of thumb is, if the repair costs more than half the cost of buying a new version of the appliance, then replace it. Keep in mind, more expensive appliances with extra features will be more costly to replace.

So how long should your appliance last?

This article from the SouthTownStar.com, has some good advice on the lifespan of your appliance which they gathered from appliance experts:
10-15 years for refrigerators and freezers
10-20 years for ovens and ranges
10-15 years for dishwashers
10-15 years for clothes washers/dryers
10-20 years for water heaters
15-20 years for central air-conditioning unit

Simple repair tips for appliances

If your appliance is not working, always check the simple things first:

Is the appliance plugged in? Turned on?

Is there power going to the circuit? Test the outlet by plugging in another appliance that you know works.

Has the surge protector gone bad, or do you have a tripped circuit?

If power is getting to your appliance, make sure there is nothing blocking any door switches. Such switches appear on dishwashers, clothes dryers, washing machines, and microwave ovens. These are often safety measures and if the doors switch is broken or obstructed, the appliance will not operate. In many cases you can buy replacement lid switches for washers and clothes dryers and make this repair yourself with a little help.

For more information or to read the articles quoted in this story in full:

“Appliances: Repair it or replace it?” from the SouthTownStar.com.

“Fix it or Ditch it? A PM Guide to Home Appliances” from Popular Mechanics.

Washing Machine Repair help and Replacement Parts

Dishwasher Repair Help and Replacement Parts

Clothes Dryer Repair Help and Replacement Parts

What to do if your burners do not work on your gas stove

Make sure you have turned the knob to the light position first. Then turn the knob to the desired heat setting after you have a flame. If you have recently cleaned your range, are you sure everything is dry? Moisture may prevent the electric ignition from working properly. If you hear clicking when the burner is supposed to be off, make sure the knob is turned all the way to off, and that the knob has popped out.

Gas Range burners are round and have small holes evenly placed around their perimeter. This appliance part is also sometimes referred to as a Gas burner grate. The holes around the perimeter allow gas to flow out and create a controlled flame when lit. Sometimes the gas orifices get plugged and the gas can’t get through to be ignited. The trick is to clean them without making the holes any bigger. You need to clean the burners thoroughly. Many people use a toothpick, old toothbrush, or a small pin to clear the holes, allowing the gas to flow freely. If, after cleaning the burners, they still don't light, you should call a professional appliance repair person.

Sometimes ranges have different size burners on them. If you have recently cleaned the burners, it is possible you put a small burner cap on the large burner, or vice versa. You should double check to make sure that the correct gas range parts are in the correct place. If this isn't the problem, and make sure they are seated properly.

For more information on how to repair or fix your own gas range burner, gas cooktop, gas stove or gas oven by purchasing the needed appliance parts online, visit www.apwagner.com.