LG Dishwasher Making Whirring Noise (Troubleshooting Guide)

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Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

If your LG dishwasher is making a whirring noise, it may be due to a faulty motor or pump. Turn off the power, check for blockages, and inspect the motor and pump for damage. Replace parts if necessary.

Confirm the symptom

Hearing a continuous whirring sound during operation
Noise occurs even when the dishwasher is empty
Sound is coming from the bottom of the unit

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Flashlight
Work gloves
Bucket
Owner's manual
Turn off power at the circuit breaker
Turn off water supply

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check for Obstructions
Do: Visually inspect the bottom of the dishwasher for food particles or debris.
Observe: Look for any blockages in the drain pump or filter area.
Means: Debris can cause the pump to work harder, creating a whirring noise.
Next: Clean out any debris and restart the dishwasher to see if the noise stops.
Inspect the Drain Pump
Do: Locate the drain pump (usually at the bottom of the dishwasher) and check for damage or wear.
Observe: Look for cracks, corrosion, or loose parts.
Means: A damaged drain pump can cause unusual noises during operation.
Next: If the pump is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Test the Motor
Do: Listen closely to determine if the noise is coming from the motor or pump area.
Observe: A high-pitched whirring sound often indicates a motor issue.
Means: A faulty motor can create a continuous whirring noise.
Next: If the motor is the source, consider replacing it.
Check the Water Inlet Valve
Do: Inspect the water inlet valve for any signs of wear or blockage.
Observe: Look for mineral buildup or debris that may be causing the valve to malfunction.
Means: A faulty water inlet valve can cause unusual noises during the fill cycle.
Next: Clean or replace the valve if necessary.
Inspect the Circulation Pump
Do: Check the circulation pump for any signs of damage or wear.
Observe: Look for cracks, corrosion, or loose parts.
Means: A damaged circulation pump can cause a whirring noise during operation.
Next: If the pump is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Check the Door Seal
Do: Inspect the door seal for any signs of wear or damage.
Observe: Look for cracks or gaps that may be allowing water to leak.
Means: A damaged door seal can cause water to pool and create noise.
Next: Replace the door seal if necessary.
Test the Dishwasher
Do: Run a test cycle to see if the noise persists after cleaning and inspecting components.
Observe: Listen for any changes in the noise level or pattern.
Means: If the noise stops, the issue may have been resolved. If it continues, further inspection is needed.
Next: If the noise continues, consider calling a professional technician.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Faulty Motor The motor may be worn or damaged, causing a whirring noise.	Common	Medium	Motor
Clogged Drain Pump Food particles or debris can block the drain pump, causing it to work harder and create noise.	Common	Easy	Drain Pump
Faulty Circulation Pump A damaged circulation pump can cause a whirring noise during operation.	Sometimes	Medium	Circulation Pump
Worn Water Inlet Valve Mineral buildup or wear can cause the water inlet valve to malfunction and create noise.	Sometimes	Easy	Water Inlet Valve
Damaged Door Seal A damaged door seal can allow water to pool and create noise.	Rare	Easy	Door Seal
Loose Components Loose parts inside the dishwasher can vibrate and create noise.	Rare	Easy	None

Parts matching

If you need to replace any parts, look for these specific components:

Drain Pump
Circulation Pump
Water Inlet Valve
Motor
Door Seal

Always refer to your owner's manual for the correct part numbers and specifications.

When to call a professional

The noise persists after cleaning and inspecting components
You are unable to locate or access the source of the noise
You are unsure about the correct part to replace
The dishwasher is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it
You lack the necessary tools or experience to perform the repair safely

FAQ

Can a clogged filter cause a whirring noise?

Yes, a clogged filter can cause the pump to work harder, resulting in a whirring noise. Clean the filter to see if the noise stops.

Is it safe to run the dishwasher if it's making a whirring noise?

It's generally safe to run the dishwasher for a short period, but prolonged use can cause further damage. Turn off the power if the noise is loud or persistent.

How often should I clean the drain pump and filter?

It's recommended to clean the drain pump and filter every 3–6 months to prevent blockages and noise.

Can I replace the motor myself?

Replacing the motor can be complex and may require specialized tools. If you're not experienced, it's best to call a professional technician.

Why is my dishwasher making a whirring noise even when it's empty?

A whirring noise when the dishwasher is empty could indicate a faulty motor or pump. Inspect these components for damage or wear.