Usually not an emergency

Thermador Dishwasher: Making Loud Noise

Commonly a worn wash-pump bearing, a cracked spray arm, or debris in the chopper area. Add a photo of your Thermador Dishwasher in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.

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In the next five minutes

Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.

  1. Note what the noise sounds like and when it happens, then turn the dishwasher off and switch off its breaker.

  2. Take a photo of the dishwasher and any code on the display, without opening anything.

  3. If you can read its label without moving it, note the brand and model number for the call.

Everything else about this problem

Is it an emergency?

Is a loud noise from a Thermador dishwasher an emergency?

Usually not an emergency. A grinding, rattling or humming that has just started most often comes from a fan, motor, belt or loose panel. Stop using it and cut the power if the noise comes with a burning smell, smoke or sparks.

Symptoms & causes

Loud grinding, humming, or banging noises from your Thermador dishwasher often indicate a problem with the wash pump, drain pump, or spray arms. Grinding typically points to foreign objects lodged in the impeller or worn motor bearings, while humming suggests a seized motor struggling to operate. Banging noises can result from loose spray arms hitting dishes or internal components vibrating excessively due to wear.

Tools & parts

A basic screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead), needle-nose pliers, and a multimeter are essential for checking electrical continuity and removing panels. You might need specific Thermador replacement parts such as a wash pump impeller kit, a complete wash pump assembly, or a drain pump. Additionally, a flashlight and a shop vacuum can be helpful for inspection and debris removal.

Safety first

Always disconnect the dishwasher's power supply by flipping the dedicated circuit breaker before attempting any inspection or repair to prevent electrical shock. Turn off the water supply valve, typically located under the sink, to avoid leaks or flooding during component removal. Be cautious of sharp edges inside the dishwasher tub and around internal components, and allow the appliance to cool if it has recently run a hot cycle.

When to call a pro

If the loud noise persists after clearing obvious obstructions and checking basic components, or if it's accompanied by error codes indicating a main motor or control board failure, professional intervention is recommended. Complex issues like a failing main circulation motor, a sealed pump housing leak, or intricate electrical tests often require specialized Thermador tools and expertise. Attempting to replace critical components like the main control board or motor without proper training can void warranties or cause further damage.

Questions people ask

Why is my Thermador dishwasher making a grinding noise?

A grinding noise in your Thermador dishwasher is frequently caused by a foreign object, such as a piece of glass or food debris, caught in the wash pump impeller. It can also indicate worn bearings within the wash pump motor itself, requiring a more involved repair or replacement. Always disconnect power before inspecting the pump area.

What causes a humming noise in a Thermador dishwasher?

A humming noise often signifies that a motor, either the wash pump or drain pump, is attempting to run but is mechanically seized or obstructed. This could be due to a blockage preventing the impeller from spinning or a motor winding issue preventing rotation. Check for obstructions first, then consider a motor replacement if the hum persists.

My Thermador dishwasher bangs during the wash cycle, what's wrong?

Banging noises during a Thermador wash cycle typically result from a spray arm hitting dishes or internal components due to improper loading or worn spray arm bearings. Ensure dishes are loaded correctly, not obstructing the spray arms' rotation, and inspect the spray arms for any looseness or damage. A loose or detached component within the tub can also cause banging.

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