Having a dishwasher that sounds like rain when running is super annoying. The dishwasher can make many types of sounds while running, but the sound of rain coming out of it is not a good indication.
The dishwasher sounds like rain issues mainly be caused by a broken Inlet valve or a faulty spray arm.
In this article, I will walk you through the common reasons for dishwashers making rain sounds. I will also share some troubleshooting and fixing methods so that you will be able to fix this issue at home without having to call a repair person.
By the end of this article, you will have no questions left.
So, let’s dive in to find the causes and solutions for solving this issue.
Why Is Raining Sound Coming Out Of My Dishwasher?
There are many reasons that can cause the rain sound in the dishwasher. But after weeks of research, I have found the most common causes for this issue.
Here are the most common reasons for a dishwasher to sound like rain:
A lack of Insulation
There can be a chance that the fault is just the lack of Insulation.
The Insulation covers the back, top, and sides of the appliance. It traps unwanted noise and prevents it from getting out of the dishwasher. It
If you mistakenly remove your dishwasher’s insulation materials while installing, it will cause the raining noise to get out, and you will hear it.
How to fix it?
Call a professional appliance technician and ask him to check the Insulation of your unit. If there is any lack of Insulation, install a new insulation material.
Faulty water Inlet valve
The water Inlet valve controls the flow of water in the dishwasher. If it is faulty, the water flow will stop or change rapidly. This random stop and change creates pressure in the valve, leading to rain sounds and vibrations.
Also, if the water is leaking out of the valve, it will cause water spray to hit the surfaces of the dishwasher. As a result, you will hear the raining sounds coming out of the appliance.
How can I fix it?
- Ensure that the right amount of water is supplied in the dishwasher with the correct pressure.
- Check the water inlet valve for any signs of damage, like cracks or leaks.
- If you find any clogs or built-up around the valve, remove it immediately.
- If it has leakage or cracks, you will have to replace your water Inlet valve with a new one.
Leakage in the spray arm
If your dishwasher is sounding like rain and you notice leaks around the doors, it means there is a crack in your spray arm.
When the spray arm is cracked or damaged, it spins too fast and sprays water onto vents and edges of the doors instead of dishes and utensils. This causes that annoying rain sound in the dishwasher.
Also, If the spray head is not installed properly, it will spray water in the wrong direction. If your dishwasher has an upper spray head, make sure that it is lined up with the water supply in the back of the dishwasher when you push the rack.
If they are not lined up, the spray head can get pushed out of its place when the rack goes in.
How can I fix it?
To fix this, you will have to inspect the spray arm for cracks and correct the misplaced spray head.
To check the spray arm, follow the instructions mentioned below.
- First, open your dishwasher’s doors and remove the lower dish rack.
- Now, try to spin your lower spray arm and Inspect it carefully for any cracks or blocked nozzles.
- Remove the center spray nozzle or retainer nut to detach the lower spray arm.
- Now, inspect the spray arm bearings for any damage.
- If you find any cracks or separation, you must replace the spray arm with another compatible one.
To correct the misplaced spray head, follow the given instructions.
- Consult your user manual to see if your dishwasher needs a spray head and water supply to line up together.
- If it does, remove your dishwasher’s top rack and check the spray head.
- If it is misplaced, correct its positioning.
Malfunctioning pump motor
If you are experiencing the sound of rain in your dishwasher, you must check the pump motor once. The pump motor is actually responsible for circulating the water throughout the dishwasher.
If the pump motor is malfunctioning, it will not push water with the correct pressure into the spray. A weak water spray will create dripping and raining noises.
- Inspect the pump for any visible damage or leakage.
- If you find any issues with the pump motor, you will have to replace it. Ask an experienced appliance repair professional to do it for you.
- You can change it yourself if you are confident and have little repair experience.
Incorrect leveling
When the dishwasher is not leveled correctly, it causes an uneven water distribution in the dishwasher.
During the wash cycle, the motion of the spray arm causes the uneven water to hit the dishwasher’s inner surfaces, leading to a rainy sound coming from it.
How to fix this?
- Ensure that the dishwasher is installed on a flat surface.
- Use the bubble level to check if the dishwasher is leveled correctly.
- If the dishwasher is unleveled, adjust its legs to correct its leveling.
Dish placement
The dish placement also plays an essential role in the proper functioning of the dishwasher.
If the dishes, especially large plates or trays, are not placed correctly, it will obstruct the rotation of the spray arm. The water from the spray arm will hit the obstructing dish with force, creating a sound similar to the rain.
How to fix it?
Rearrange the dishes in the right way. Avoid overloading your dishwasher.
You can refer to the user manual to learn the correct placement of dishes in the dishwasher.
Issues with the drain pump
A non-functioning drain pump will be unable to drain the water after completing the cycle, and the wastewater will stand in the dishwasher.
When you start a new cycle, the movement of the spray arm will cause the standing water to hit the dishes and inner surfaces and mimic the rain sound.
How can I fix it?
- Ensure the drain pump is functioning correctly.
- Inspect it for any visible signs of damage like leakage or cracks.
- Force out the drain to remove the standing wastewater from the dishwasher’s tub.
- Check the dishwasher’s drain hose for kinks or clogs. If you find any, remove it.
Can I Silence the Raining Noise by Covering the Dishwasher With a Towel?
To address the “raining” noise from your dishwasher, covering it with a towel is not effective or recommended. Instead, consider these solutions:
- Add sound insulation: Many high-end dishwashers have built-in sound insulation. For others, you can add sound-deadening mats like Damplifier Pro to reduce vibrations.
- Sound-absorbing materials: Place materials like Heat Wave Pro or Mega Zorbe around the dishwasher alcove if space permits. These can absorb and dampen noise effectively.
- Rubber mat installation: Place a rubber mat underneath the dishwasher to minimize vibrations transferred to the floor, reducing overall noise.
How Can I Prevent My Dishwasher From Sounding Like Rain in the Future?
To prevent your dishwasher from sounding like rain in the future, take the following steps:
- Check and Maintain Components:
- Spray Arms: Ensure spray arms are not blocked or damaged. Regularly clean them to avoid obstructions that cause erratic water spraying.
- Water Inlet Valve: Inspect the water inlet valve for damage or leaks. Replace if necessary to ensure smooth water flow.
- Pump and Motor: Check for wear or damage. Replace malfunctioning parts to maintain quiet operation.
- Improve Insulation:
- Soundproofing Mats: Add sound-deadening mats like Damplifier Pro to the dishwasher’s metal body to reduce vibrations.
- Insulation Blankets: If your dishwasher lacks a sufficient insulation blanket, add one to reduce airborne noise.
- Rubber Mats: Place a rubber mat underneath the dishwasher to isolate it from the floor and minimize mechanical noise.
- Proper Installation and Loading:
- Leveling: Ensure the dishwasher is properly leveled and securely installed to prevent excessive noise from vibrations.
- Loading Dishes: Load dishes correctly, leaving enough space for the spray arms to rotate freely and prevent obstructions.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the dishwasher’s filter, spray arms, and other components to prevent debris buildup that can cause noise.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the dishwasher for wear or damage and address issues promptly.
- Professional Help:
- Technician Inspection: If noise persists, have a professional technician inspect the dishwasher to identify and fix any underlying issues.
Infographic: Why does the raining sound coming from the dishwasher?
FAQs
Is it normal for my dishwasher to sound like rain?
No, it’s generally not normal for a dishwasher to sound like rain. While some water noise is expected, a distinct rain-like sound might indicate an issue such as blockages or worn-out parts that need attention.
Can I fix the noise my dishwasher is making?
Yes, you can often fix dishwasher noise by addressing common issues. Check and clear obstructions from spray arms, filter, and pump. Inspect and replace faulty parts like the water inlet valve and impeller. Ensure proper installation, leveling, and loading. Add insulation if needed.
Can regular cleaning of the dishwasher filter help prevent the “rain” sound?
Yes, regular cleaning of the dishwasher filter helps prevent the “rain” sound. A clean filter ensures free water flow, efficient drainage, and removes debris that can cause irregular water spray patterns, leading to quieter operation.
Can I use a dishwasher noise-reducing device to minimize the sound?
Yes, using a dishwasher noise-reducing device can help minimize sound. Sound-deadening mats, insulation blankets, and rubber mats can reduce vibrations and noise, leading to a quieter dishwasher operation.
Why does my dishwasher sound like dripping water?
The dripping sound can be caused due to a malfunctioning pump motor. When the pump water doesn’t push the water with the right force. It causes a dripping and raining-like sound in the dishwasher.
Should I hear water spraying in the dishwasher?
The sound of water spraying from the dishwasher during the wash cycle is considered to be normal. Actually, these sounds come from the dishes on which the water is being sprayed to clean them.
Can a faulty dishwasher component cause raining sound?
Yes, a faulty dishwasher component can cause a raining sound. Common culprits include a deteriorating water inlet valve, damaged or clogged spray arms, and issues with the circulation pump. These faults can create irregular water spray patterns or unusual noises resembling rain.
Can a clogged drain cause the “rain” sound?
Yes, a clogged drain can cause a “rain” sound. Improper drainage leads to water backing up, creating unusual gurgling noises as water and air push through the blockage. This irregular water spray pattern can resemble the sound of rain.
Can a faulty dishwasher faulty door latch cause the sound?
A faulty dishwasher latch can contribute to unusual sounds but is not a common cause of a rain-like sound. This issues typically lead to leaks or door closure problems rather than creating a rain-like noise.
Conclusion
The rain sound coming from the dishwasher can be caused by many reasons. However, some of the most common reasons include poor Insulation, faulty Inlet valve, malfunctioning pump motor, leakage in the spray arm, Incorrect dish placement, etc.
You can solve each of these causes by yourself. Head over to find the troubleshooting steps for each cause.
But if you are unconfident or have no repair experience, you can always ask a professional technician for assistance.
This was the detailed guide on raining sounds coming out of the dishwasher issue. I hope you have liked it. If you still have any doubts, comment below. I will surely assist you.
