A dishwasher helps with a specific task in the kitchen and saves a lot of effort at the same time. Unfortunately, some models may become too noisy. If your dishwasher is making a gravel sound, there is something wrong with it. Ultimately, this gravel noise is a sign that something requires fixing. Identifying this issue and resolving it will not only quiet your device but also improve its durability. In the following article, we will look into some of the ways that can be taken to settle the gravel sound your dishwasher is making, as well as identify its particular causes.
Why Does My Dishwasher Sound Like Gravel?
Considering the expense of a dishwasher, not being able to use it because it makes an annoying gravel sound is frustrating. This usually happens due to specific common reasons. Tracking down these sources will help in silencing the dishwasher effectively.
Eliminate Foreign Objects Found In the Dishwasher
Obstructions like foreign objects are the most common reason why a dishwasher sounds like gravel. These foreign objects could be tiny pieces of broken glass, food, or even serving utensils, which might be stuck in the dishwasher’s spray arms or even the filer. If these foreign objects get dislocated from the filter or the arms during the washing cycle or pump activity, the appliance would rattle and produce a sound akin to gravel.
Solution
- Start by checking the dishwasher spray arms as the first step. Clean the holes located at the arms ends of any objects that might be caught in them. Make sure that the arms are cleaned so they are in a position to move freely.
- Recheck the dishwasher filter and drain system for any obstructions that might prevent the system from functioning properly. Clear the area of any blockages which might hinder the free movement of water.
Recheck and clean the bottom rack of the dishwasher to make sure that there are no foreign particles that could serve as blockage.
Broken Spray Arms Or Worn Out Ones
Broken or worn-out spray arms in a dishwasher typically will offer incomplete washing of dishes. The spray arms also overwash, which wastes water. A broken dishwasher spray arm leads to rattling and grinding noises during the cycle.
Solution
- Look for cracks, damage, and wear on the spray arms. Broken or excessively worn spray arms should be replaced.
- Check whether the spray arms are fastened properly to the dishwasher. If they’re loose, secure them to eliminate noises from rattling.
Defective Dishwasher Pump
The pump inside the dishwasher is responsible for moving the water during the washing and rinsing. When the pump is damaged, there are unusual noises like gravel sounds. If the pump is malfunctioning, then it won’t be able to move the water which uses a lot of grinding or rattling noises.
Solution
- Reach out to a professional appliance repair service should the pump be the suspect. The repairman will evaluate the pump and check if any debris or damage is present, allowing them to determine whether a replacement is necessary.
- Frequently clean any debris or noise causing buildup around the pump.
Dishwasher Drain that is Blocked or Clogged Up
Blocked drains can cause your dishwasher to sound like it is grinding rocks. If the drain hose is clogged up with food and grease, it won’t be able to flow out properly. Because of that, your dishwasher components will have to work extra hard to function, which will create increasingly strange sounds.
Solution
- Look for visible blockages in the drain hose first. If you do spot something that looks like it is blocked, remove the hose and clean out what is inside.
- Make sure you also check the dishwasher drain filter to see if that is clean. If it is not, then you need to clean it and run a test cycle without dishes to see if the sound goes away.
Dishwashers that Are Overloaded or Not Balanced Properly
When a dishwasher is overloaded or incorrectly set up, it increases the pressure on the components and unique sounds will be produced. Similarly, if dishes are packed rigidly or put in the wrong position, the spray arms can get blocked, which will create a gravel-like sound.
Solution
- Be mindful when setting up the dishes in the dishwasher. Make sure that all items are placed firmly inside and that they are not blocking any of the nozzles.
- Try not to overload the dishwasher as they are not built to withstand excessive strain. Do expect strange or loud and unpleasant noises to blare from it if you do.
Muffling Dishwashers: How to Maintain Silence
Now that we’ve covered why your dishwasher might sound like gravel, the next important step is to make sure you do regular maintenance so that these issues do not arise. This is how you can make sure the dishwasher is working in proper order:
Cleaning the Dishwasher
It is incredibly important to keep a routine where the dishwasher is cleaned properly to maintain optimum levels. If soap scum, food, or other minerals are left unchecked in the dishwasher, it can lead to unwanted noise and blockages.
How to Clean
- Set the dishwasher on a cleaning cycle at least once a month using any dish cleaner or vinegar and baking soda mix. This makes sure unwanted grime is cleaned out and any residue left behind does not block anything.
- Every couple of weeks, filters and spray arms should be cleaned to eliminate any debris that might have built up.
Inspecting the Parts of the Dishwasher
By doing routine checks on the components of the dishwasher, you can make sure any potential problems do not become bigger problems. The arms that spray, the hose that drains and the pump should be checked regularly to make sure everything works as it should.
Avoid Overloading the Dishwasher
Many times, consumers overload the dishwasher, which is never a good practice. Putting an excessive number of items can make the machine go haywire and consume more electricity than usual, lowering its expected efficiency. It is advisable to always follow the manufacturer set guidelines to avoid making the appliance too noisey.
Deal With Problems Right Away
Many people are habitually indifferent to the problems that arise when the appliance is functioning. Unusual noises, drops of water leaking from some parts and the general performance should be kept an eye on. Leaving these problems unattended can result in the damages becoming worse and make the repairs really costly.
When to Call a Professional Appliance Repair Technician
Maintaining the dishwasher is easy if the problem is not too complicated, but more serious problems will require a professional to look at it. Is it possible that your dishwasher dries and sounds oddly gravel-like despite the debris being cleared away and the sprayer and the pump being cleaned? At that point, it’s more beneficial to call an expert. The best thing about calling a professional for help is they are trained to Identify the issues clearly, whether it’s the pump malfunctioning or a broken sprayer, so they can easily offer an effective solution.
Solving Difficult Problems With Dishwashers
If your dishwasher still sounds like gravel and all the common troubleshooting steps have been completed, a mechanical problem may be present. Some of these issues may require a professional’s assistance, as they involve more complex parts that may not be easy to fix without training. Below are some of the more complicated issues that can cause a dishwasher to make strange sounds, along with their respective solutions.
Dysfunctional Motor or Motor Bearings
A malfunctioning motor or bearing that is prone to wear can cause a gravel noise if the motor is having issues running. Bearings on the motor help it function smoothly. If the bearings get worn out or damaged, they will begin to cause friction and, as a result, make very bizarre noises.
Solution
- Diagnosis: The noise that is produced by the motor bearings will shine a light on the issue. Generally, the sound will stem from the bottom portion of the dishwasher. Moreover, the noises should only be amplified when the motor is more engaged during the washing or rinsing cycle.
- Replacing the motor bearings or the entire motor might be necessary. This task is neither simple nor easy and typically requires the assistance of a professional. In most instances, due to the difficulty of the task, which requires disassembling components of the dishwasher’s motor, it is not a DIY job.
Broken Or Impeller That’s Too Loose
The spray arm assembly has an impeller, which is part of the sprayer’s arm. It helps to ensure that water is able to reach all parts of the dishes to wash them thoroughly. If the impeller has cracks, is broken, or is loose, it could interfere with many of its functions, causing it to make a gravelly noise. The noise can also be caused by debris stuck in the impeller.
Solution
- Diagnosis: The issue is often audible when water is being sprayed from the dishwasher’s arms and circulated to wash the dishes. The sound could be grinding or rattling.
- Fix: Check the impeller for fragments of dirt or any signs of damage. If the impeller is broken or damaged beyond repair, you will need to replace it. Most modern impellers are fairly easy to replace, but depending on your model, you may prefer that a professional do it.
Obstructed Drain Pump or Drain Hose
People often complain that their dishwashers make gravel noise because of an obstructed drain pump or drain hose. Anything like food, grease, or even mineral deposits can clog drains, hoses, and pumps. It can can create strange noise while the water tries to drain.
Solution
- Diagnosis: If there’s a considerable amount of noise while the dishwasher is draining, the hose or pump is most probably blocked. A sure symptom is the dishwasher is not fully releasing the water.
- Fix: It’s important to turn off the power and water supply. After that, you can work on the drain pump and hose for blockages. You can take a tiny brush or a hose to clean out the gunk. The pump most probably needs to be cleaned out if there is a clog stuck in there. For extreme blockages or if the pump is damaged, it’s best to replace it.
Dishwashers Spray Arms That Are Loose Or Damaged
One of the parts in the dishwasher that is also under a lot of strain is the spray arms. If the seals are worn, or if there are loose ones, it could rattle during use. If the spray arms do not spin properly or hit other components inside the dishwasher, grinding sounds can be produced.
Solution
- Diagnosis: There could be a grinding or rattling noise when the arm sprays during the washing cycle. If the arms are loose, they may be rotated freely, and they could end up touching some walls in the dishwasher or other components.
- Fix: Check the spray arms for signs of damage. Damaged or cracked arms need to be replaced. If they are loose or misaligned, the spray arms need to be tightened. Check the holes of the spray arm for any debris or mineral deposits that may be obstructing its rotation and causing strange sounds.
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Broken Drain Valve or Check Valve
The flow of water into the dishwasher and vice-versa is controlled using the drain valve and check valve, respectively. A broken valve can enable the dishwasher to produce random sounds like noises that are similar to gravel. This is most common when the valve happens to be stuck or is clogged.
Solution
- Diagnosis: If noise is heard while the dishwasher is doing the draining, then the problem could be connected to the check or drain valve. There is a possibility of water not flowing properly within the system, which could be causing some vibrations and grinding sounds.
- Edit: Try cleaning or changing the valve. A drain valve that is clogged can usually be cleaned using a soft bristle brush and warm water. But if it’s broken, it will need to be replaced.
Dishwasher’s Overcapacity
Dishwashers can also have problems simply due to poor loading and not mechanical issues. An overloaded dishwasher can cause dishes to rub against one another, which can get mechanical parts stuck or cause loud banging noises when in use. Moreover, large glasses that are not properly placed can interfere with the arms that rotate the water spray.
Solution
- Problem: The noise in the dishwasher when it is filled with water suggests the problem of too many dishes in the unit. Look for any items that make contact with the arms that spray water or any other parts that rotate in the dishwasher.
- Edit: Ensure dishes are placed properly in the washer without blocking the arms that spray out water or cramming the racks. Allow adequate water flow and ensure that plates and glasses are held firmly without moving so they do not fall over.
Never-Ending Repair Tips for the Dishwasher Gravel Sounds
With time, the wear and tear of the dishwasher causes various issues to pop up. A few proactive measures could help control the strange noises occurring over time. Here are some preventative tips that aid in enhancing the dishwasher’s efficiency:
- Regular Cleaning: To ensure no buildup of debris, cleaning the filter, spray arms, and drain regularly is necessary. Don’t forget to remove food particles after every wash.
- Use the Right Detergent: Avoid spam motor and component damage by applying cooker-quality liquid detergent.
- Check For Proper Loading: Maintain perfect loading by never overfilling or obstructing the movement of spray arms with dishes.
- Perform Routine Maintenance: To avoid dishwasher smells and mineral deposits that affect performance, run a hot cycle of vinegar water monthly.
How To Fix The Dishwasher That Sounds Like It Has Gravel In It… 5 FAQs
Why does my dishwasher sound like gravel?
Regular maintenance and cleaning can address these issues. Issues with the spray arms or drain components tend to cause debris to get caught, which damages the pump. This is the most common cause of gravel-like sounds while washing.
Can I fix the gravel noise of my dishwasher by myself?
Definitely! Many people can solve the problem on their own by cleaning the spray arms, filter, or drain hose. But if none of those work, a professional might be needed.
How can I reduce the noise coming from my dishwasher?
Cleaning the dishwasher regularly, not overfilling it, and ensuring all parts are working properly can go a long way. Paying extra attention to the spray arms and the pump can also ensure quiet washing.
Is it ok to use a dishwasher that sounds like it has gravel in it?
It is generally safe to use the dishwasher if it sounds like it has gravel in it as long as it is because of some debris or blockage and that blockage has been taken care of. If the noise persists, it is most likely a mechanical problem, and a damaged pump is pumping the cleaner, so it would be better to fix the dishwasher before using it.
What will the price be for a dishwasher that sounds like gravel?
Several factors will play a role in the final price of repair, such as the issue at hand. Smaller tasks like cleaning or replacing spray arms tend to cost between $100 to $200. Replacing a pump would be more costly, with prices ranging from $300 to $600 depending on the model and labor required.
Conclusion
A dishwasher that sounds like gravel is a very annoying problem to fix, but familiarizing yourself with the causes and solutions helps you deal with the problem better. Taking good care and cleaning the unit should help minimize these problems. If these noises persist, you may want to consult an appliance repair professional. Make sure to maintain the unit to help your dishwasher operate effectively with every load you wash.
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