Open-plan living has become the standard in Australian homes, combining kitchen, dining, and living areas into one flowing space. While this design maximises light and facilitates family interaction, it also means kitchen appliance noise carries directly into living spaces. A noisy dishwasher can make conversation difficult, compete with television audio, and generally disrupt the peaceful atmosphere you want in your home. This guide explores both immediate fixes and longer-term solutions for minimising dishwasher noise.
Key Takeaway
Dishwasher noise comes from multiple sources: water spray, pumps, motor operation, and vibration transfer. Addressing each of these factors, combined with smart timing of cycles, can dramatically reduce the impact on your living space.
Understanding Dishwasher Noise Levels
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dB), a logarithmic scale where every 10dB increase represents a roughly doubling of perceived loudness. Understanding these ratings helps you set realistic expectations and make informed purchasing decisions.
Decibel Rating Guide
- 38-42 dB: Whisper quiet. Premium dishwashers with advanced insulation. Barely noticeable during operation
- 44-46 dB: Very quiet. Audible if you're listening for it, but won't disrupt conversation
- 47-50 dB: Quiet. A noticeable hum that most people find acceptable for open-plan living
- 51-55 dB: Moderate. Clearly audible, may interfere with quiet activities. Common in budget models
- 56+ dB: Loud. Will compete with conversation and television. Typical of older models
For context, normal conversation is about 60 dB, a refrigerator hums at about 40 dB, and a whisper is around 30 dB. Most people find dishwashers at 46 dB or below comfortable for open-plan living.
Check Manufacturer Specs
When purchasing a new dishwasher, always check the decibel rating. This information is typically available on the energy rating label and in product specifications. Remember that premium quiet models command higher prices but pay dividends in daily comfort.
Immediate Noise Reduction Tips
If your current dishwasher is noisier than you'd like, several strategies can help without replacing the appliance.
Check Levelling
A dishwasher that isn't level vibrates more, transferring noise to surrounding cabinetry and flooring. Use a spirit level on the dishwasher's floor when the door is open. Adjust the front feet until the machine is perfectly level both front-to-back and side-to-side. Ensuring the dishwasher sits firmly without rocking eliminates a significant source of noise.
Secure Mounting
Built-in dishwashers should be securely mounted to surrounding cabinetry using the brackets provided. Loose mounting allows vibration that amplifies noise. Check that all mounting screws are tight and brackets are in place. For freestanding models, ensure the appliance isn't pressed tightly against adjacent units, which can transfer vibration.
Load Properly
Items that rattle, shift, or block spray arms create additional noise. Ensure dishes are stable in their positions and that lightweight items won't flip or move during the cycle. Check that spray arms can rotate freely without hitting anything.
Clean the Filter and Spray Arms
A clogged filter makes the pump work harder, creating more noise. Blocked spray arm holes cause uneven water distribution and can create unusual sounds. Regular maintenance keeps the machine operating smoothly and quietly.
Timing Strategies
Sometimes the simplest solution is running your dishwasher when noise matters least.
Use Delay Start
Most modern dishwashers have a delay start feature that lets you schedule cycles to run later. Set the dishwasher after dinner and program it to run late at night or in the early morning when the living area isn't in use. This is often the most effective "solution" for families bothered by dishwasher noise.
Quiet Hours
If delay start isn't available or practical, establish dishwasher running times that avoid peak living space use. Running during homework time, afternoon activities, or while the family is in bedrooms rather than living areas reduces the impact even without reducing the actual noise.
Overnight Running Considerations
If running overnight, ensure the cycle completes before morning so you can unload. Be aware of potential flooding risks when running appliances unattended. Some insurance policies have conditions around overnight appliance operation.
Physical Noise Reduction Solutions
For persistent noise issues, physical modifications can make a significant difference.
Anti-Vibration Mats
Placing an anti-vibration mat under your dishwasher reduces noise transfer through the floor. These rubber or foam mats absorb vibration that would otherwise transmit into flooring and adjacent cabinetry. They're inexpensive and easy to install, though the dishwasher may need to be pulled out and repositioned.
Soundproofing Blankets
Specialised soundproofing blankets can be installed on the sides and top of the dishwasher. These dense materials absorb sound waves and reduce noise escaping from the appliance. Installation typically requires removing the dishwasher, but the results can be significant, reducing noise by several decibels.
Cabinet Insulation
Adding insulation to the cabinet cavity surrounding your dishwasher helps contain noise. Acoustic insulation panels or even dense foam can be attached to cabinet walls. Ensure any materials used can withstand the heat and humidity of dishwasher operation.
Check Door Seals
Damaged or worn door seals allow more noise to escape during operation. Inspect your door gasket for wear or damage. A fresh seal not only reduces noise but also prevents leaks and improves energy efficiency.
When Noise Indicates a Problem
While all dishwashers make some noise, certain sounds indicate problems that need attention.
Grinding Sounds
Grinding often indicates something is caught in the pump or around the spray arm motor. Stop the cycle and check for debris, broken glass, or other foreign objects. If the sound persists after clearing visible obstructions, professional service may be needed.
Thumping or Banging
Rhythmic thumping usually means something is interfering with spray arm rotation. Check for tall items blocking the arms or loose items that have shifted during the cycle.
High-Pitched Squealing
Squealing sounds can indicate worn pump bearings or motor issues. These problems typically worsen over time and eventually require professional repair.
Sudden Noise Increase
If your dishwasher was quiet and becomes noticeably louder, something has changed. Check for loose mounting, shifted position, clogged filter, or debris in the pump area before assuming major component failure.
Choosing a Quiet Dishwasher
If your current dishwasher is simply too loud and you're considering replacement, prioritising noise level in your selection criteria will pay dividends daily.
Premium Quiet Models
Brands like Bosch, Miele, and high-end LG models consistently achieve the lowest noise levels, often 42 dB or below. These dishwashers use advanced insulation, vibration-damping motor mounts, and precisely balanced spray arms. The quietest Miele and Bosch models operate at 38-40 dB, barely perceptible during operation.
Features That Reduce Noise
When shopping, look for:
- Brushless motors: Quieter and more efficient than traditional motors
- Multiple insulation layers: More insulation means less noise transmission
- Anti-vibration base plates: Reduce floor-transmitted noise
- Spray arm design: Well-engineered arms operate more quietly
- Quiet drain pumps: Some models specifically highlight quiet pump operation
Try Before You Buy
If possible, visit showrooms where dishwashers run demonstration cycles. Hearing a dishwasher in operation gives you a much better sense of its noise level than specifications alone. Some retailers can also arrange demonstrations.
Installation Matters
Even the quietest dishwasher will be noisy if poorly installed. Professional installation ensures proper levelling, secure mounting, and correct hose connections. A few extra dollars on installation can make the difference between a whisper-quiet appliance and one that transmits vibration throughout your cabinetry.
Living with Dishwasher Noise
Sometimes, a degree of noise is unavoidable, and practical accommodation is the best approach:
- Position seating areas away from the kitchen when possible
- Use background music or ambient sound during cycles
- Select the quietest appropriate cycle for each load
- Accept that short periods of noise are the trade-off for clean dishes without hand washing
With the right combination of maintenance, timing, physical modifications, and perhaps eventual replacement with a quieter model, dishwasher noise needn't dominate your open-plan living experience.