Amana Dishwasher Making Noise? Causes + How to Fix It (2026 Guide)

Amana dishwashers are designed to run quietly (around 60-63 dB, like normal conversation), with only soft humming or swishing sounds. Unusual loud noises usually indicate a problem.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through common causes of loud dishwasher noise and how to troubleshoot or fix them, whether it’s a DIY job or something that might require parts or professional help. Read the Quick Fix Guide and then go below for more details.

Quick Troubleshooting Tip: Listen for when the noise happens (filling = valve; washing/draining = pump issues). Most fixes involve part replacement—pumps typically last ~10 years.

Quick Fix Guide:

Faulty Water Inlet Valve Diaphragm — Loud rushing/humming during fill. Fix: Replace the complete inlet valve. ($17)

Worn-Out Pump Bearings — Squeaking/clicking from age, overload, or corrosion. Fix: Replace the circulation or drain pump (bearings rarely sold separately). ($36/$25)

Broken Pump Impeller — Grinding/screeching if fins break from debris. Fix: Replace impeller or (easier) the entire pump assembly. ($36)

Clogged or Worn Drain Pump — Rattling/grinding from food buildup or worn parts. Fix: Clean filter first; replace pump if damaged. ($25)

📌 What Should a Normal Amana Dishwasher Sound Like?

Before diagnosing a problem, it’s important to recognize normal sounds. A typical Amana dishwasher may make:

• Rushing or swishing water sounds during wash cycles
• Gentle humming from the motor or circulation pump
• Light clicking from valves opening and closing

🚫 Signs Your Dishwasher Noise Isn’t Normal

If your dishwasher makes any of the following, it’s time to investigate:

• Grinding or screeching
• Loud rattling or clanking
• Buzzing that’s louder than usual
• Whining or howling sounds
• Vibration that seems excessive

🔍 Common Causes of Loud Dishwasher Noise

🌀 1. Worn-Out Pump Bearings

Your dishwasher has two key pumps:

• The circulation pump, which sprays water during washing
• The drain pump, which expels dirty water

Each pump contains bearings that allow the impeller to spin quietly. Over time, these bearings can wear, leading to loud squeaking or grinding noises when the pump operates. If bearings fail, the best long-term fix is to replace the entire pump assembly rather than the individual bearings. Dishwasher pumps usually last only 10 years.

⚙️ 2. Damaged Pump Impeller

The impeller is the tiny blade that forces water through your dishwasher. If hard debris like glass, bones, or hard food particles enter the pump area, they can break the impeller fins. A damaged impeller can grind against the pump housing and make grinding or scraping noises, and can damage the pump further. Replacing the impeller or the pump assembly will correct the problem.

Pump impellers are not universal and it might be difficult to find the correct part. A more practical solution would be to replace the affected pump entirely. Amazon and other retailers carry replacement pumps for $36. Double check the model number and click here.

We may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.

🚰 3. Clogged or Worn Drain Pump

Food debris and other particles can make their way past the filter and clog the drain pump. A blocked or worn-out drain pump makes noise whenever it runs. Cleaning the pump (if accessible) or replacing it often fixes the noise — and helps your dishwasher drain properly, too.

This pump sits at the bottom of the compartment in the sump area, where dirty water and food bits fall during a wash. The drain pump will run at least once at the end of each wash cycle. However, some dishwashers will also run the pump mid-cycle to remove dirty water so they can refill with clean water.

Investing in a new drain pump will restore life to your Amana dishwasher and keep it running for many years. Amazon and other retailers sell parts online for around $25. Double check the model number and click here.

We may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.

💧 4. Water Inlet Valve Problems

The water inlet valve controls the water flow into your Amana dishwasher. If its internal diaphragm becomes warped or worn out over time, you may hear loud noises during the fill stage of a cycle. Since the diaphragm isn’t sold separately, the solution is usually to replace the entire valve.

Again, online retailers such as Amazon carry replacement valves for $16. Check model number and click here for Amana water inlet valve.

We may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Read: How To Troubleshoot And Reset GE Profile Dishwasher E1 Error Code?

🍽️ 5. Obstructions in the Spray Arm or Interior

Sometimes, the issue isn’t a broken part at all — it’s something stuck. A utensil, broken dish piece, or food debris can jam the spray arm or clog the filter/sump area. Check and clear any blockages in:

• Spray arms (top and bottom)
• The dishwasher filter
• The pump inlet area

Even small debris can create loud rattling or scratching noises.

🛠 How to Quiet a Loud Amana Dishwasher

✅ Step-By-Step Troubleshooting

1. Unload the dishwasher and check for loose items or utensils blocking spray arms.
2. Remove the lower rack and inspect the spray arms and filter assembly for debris.
3. Listen carefully during each phase (fill, wash, drain) to localize the noise source.
4. Level your dishwasher — improper leveling can amplify normal sounds.
5. Soundproofing mats or insulating blankets can reduce noise further, but it’s best to fix mechanical issues first

🧰 When to Repair vs Replace the Dishwasher

• Minor noises (light buzzing or swishing): usually normal or easily fixed with cleaning.
• Persistent loud grinding or screeching: likely worn pump or impeller — replacing the pump assembly is a practical fix.
• Multiple failing components or dishwasher older than ~10 years: consider replacing the unit.

Read: GE Dishwasher 888 Code. How To Fix It?

Read: GE Profile Dishwasher Control Panel Problems And How To Troubleshoot Them?