Whirlpool Dishwasher Humming But Not Washing: Top 6 Fixes

If your dishwasher is throwing a loud humming tantrum, disrupting your peace and focus and to top it off, not doing a decent job at cleaning, I’ve got the fix for you.

A Whirlpool dishwasher humming but not washing, is likely due to a faulty valve, float, pump, or switch. You can fix it by swapping the valve, checking and replacing the float or switch if needed, addressing pump issues, and replacing a damaged switch.

I’ll go deeper into the reasons and tell you more about the fixes in this post. Let’s get going.

Why Is My Whirlpool Dishwasher Humming But Not Washing

Let’s break down the probable culprits for why your Whirlpool dishwasher emits a persistent hum but fails to wash.

Reason 1: Water Inlet Valve Problem

When the water inlet valve in your Whirlpool dishwasher is not working properly due to defects or blockages, it won’t fill up with water. 

You might hear a humming sound, but the dishwasher won’t actually begin the wash cycle.

Reason 2: Float/Float Switch Trouble

If the float or the switch is acting up, your dishwasher won’t know when to start washing. 

It’ll just hum without actually getting to work because these parts control the water level, and if they’re not functioning right, water won’t enter the dishwasher as it should.

Reason 3: Pump Seal Issue

The pump seals are essential for making water circulate through your dishwasher’s spray arms. 

If these seals are dry or stuck, the dishwasher’s motor may make a humming noise, but there won’t be any water circulation, and it won’t wash your dishes.

Reason 4: Water Inlet Fill Hose Concern

If there’s a problem with the hose that brings water into your dishwasher, like kinks, clogs, or incorrect connections, your dishwasher won’t be able to fill up with water properly. 

It’ll hum as it tries to get water, but it won’t get past that.

Reason 5: Damaged Door Microswitch Difficulty

The door microswitch ensures that your dishwasher’s door is closed before it starts washing. 

If it’s damaged or not working right, your dishwasher won’t kick into the wash cycle even if it makes a humming noise. 

This is a safety feature to prevent your dishwasher from running with an open door.

Solutions To Whirlpool Dishwasher Humming But Not Washing

Now, let’s cut to the chase and explore practical fixes to restore order in your kitchen:

Solution 1: Fixing the Water Inlet Valve Issue

1. Turn off the power (unplug or switch off the circuit breaker).
2. Access the water inlet valve by removing the lower front panel.
3. Examine for any visible defects or blockages.
4. Get rid of debris or mineral deposits if found.
5. Use a multimeter to test the water inlet valve for continuity.
6. If continuity is absent, replace the water inlet valve.
7. Reassemble and check by initiating a wash cycle.

Solution 2: Solving the Float/Float Switch Problem

1. Power down the dishwasher.
2. Find and access the float or float switch, typically situated underneath the front of the dishwasher.
3. Inspect the area for any obstructions and thoroughly clean it.
4. Employ a multimeter to test the float switch for continuity.
5. If continuity is lacking, replace the float switch.
6. Reassemble and see if the humming’s calmed down and the washer does its thing.

Solution 3: Addressing Pump Seal Trouble

1. Disable power to the dishwasher.
2. Gain access to the pump assembly by removing the lower front panel.
3. Check the pump seals for signs of dryness or blockages.
4. Perform cleaning or lubrication of the seals if required.
5. Manually rotate the pump impeller to ensure free movement.
6. Address any obstructions or consider replacing the pump assembly if it remains stuck.
7. Reassemble and confirm the operation by initiating a wash cycle.

Solution 4: Resolving Water Inlet Fill Hose Issues

1. Deactivate the dishwasher’s power.
2. Inspect the water inlet fill hose from the dishwasher to its source.
3. Check for kinks, clogs, or incorrect connections.
4. Straighten out kinks and clear any clogs that are present.
5. Ensure that the hose is properly connected at both ends.
6. Reassemble and validate functionality by starting a wash cycle.

Solution 5: Fixing the Damaged Door Microswitch

1. Power off the dishwasher.
2. Access the door microswitch, typically located near the door latch assembly.
3. Thoroughly inspect the microswitch for any signs of damage.
4. If damage is found, replace the microswitch.
5. Reassemble and see if the washer runs properly again.

FAQs

Are there specific maintenance tasks to prevent a dishwasher from humming without washing?

To prevent your dishwasher from humming without doing the dishes, run a maintenance cycle at least once a week. Even if you don’t use it often, this routine helps keep the pump seal from drying out and sticking. Clear the drain hose regularly and check for debris in the interior components for optimal performance.

Is it normal to hear a humming noise when the dishwasher is running?

Yes, it’s normal to hear a gentle hum when your dishwasher is running. This sound typically comes from the motor and mechanical components doing their job. However, if the humming is unusually loud or coincides with poor cleaning, it’s worth investigating for potential issues.

Final Thoughts

There you go, you should finally have that sweet sweet “quiet” back, as well as your washer’s ability to dance through its cycles without a hiccup. 

Enjoy the serenity and the confidence that your dishes are getting the clean they deserve.