Ge Dishwasher: thumping noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a rhythmic thumping noise from your GE dishwasher during the wash cycle? This common issue often arises from the spray arm hitting dishes or foreign objects. Identifying and addressing the source of the thumping can restore your dishwasher's quiet operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Ge Models

  • GE Appliances specifically identifies rhythmic knocking or thumping as spray arm interference with dishes or other items inside the dishwasher.

Possible Causes

Spray arm contacting dishes or foreign objects

How to Identify: Noise stops or changes when dishes are rearranged; objects inside tub visibly obstruct spray arm rotation.

Part: Spray arms (upper and/or lower)

Damaged or bent impeller/pump components

How to Identify: Thumping accompanied by performance issues (poor cleaning; inspection shows bent or damaged impeller blades.

Part: Wash impeller / pump assembly

DIY Solutions

Rearrange dishes and remove obstructions

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Open dishwasher and remove load.
  2. Inspect spray arms and ensure dishes/cutlery are not protruding into spray arm path.
  3. Remove any foreign objects from bottom of dishwasher.
  4. Reload dishes ensuring adequate clearance around spray arms.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dishwasher is off before placing hands inside.

Clean out debris from bottom of dishwasher

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight, Gloves
  1. Turn off power to dishwasher.
  2. Remove bottom rack.
  3. Inspect and remove any debris (bones, hard food pieces) from bottom and around spray arm mounts.
  4. Check spray arm spin freely before closing dishwasher.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power if accessing near pump/impeller area.

Professional Repairs

Replace damaged wash impeller or pump assembly

Estimated Cost: $80 - $250

When to Call a Professional

Noise continues after rearranging dishes and clearing debris
Visible damage to internal moving parts is suspected
Dishwasher performance (cleaning) is also poor or water is not circulating properly

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check and clear debris from bottom and spray arms: Foreign object induced noise and spray arm blockage
    Frequency: monthly
  • Properly load dishes with clearance around spray arms: Spray arm contact noise
    Frequency: Each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my GE Dishwasher thumping noise?
The thumping noise is typically caused by the spray arm hitting dishes or foreign objects inside the dishwasher.
How do I fix GE Dishwasher thumping noise myself?
To fix it, rearrange dishes, remove obstructions, and clean out debris from the bottom of the dishwasher.
How much does it cost to fix thumping noise?
Professional repairs for a thumping noise may cost between $80 and $250 to replace damaged impeller or pump components.
When should I call a technician for thumping noise?
If the noise persists after DIY solutions or if you suspect damaged parts, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Loose or damaged spray arms
  • Obstructions in the spray arms or filter
  • Faulty motor or pump assembly

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and tighten or replace the spray arms. Ensure they are securely attached and not cracked or damaged. If replacement is needed, remove the old spray arm by unscrewing it and install the new one by following the manufacturer's instructions.

  2. Check for obstructions in the spray arms and filter. Remove any debris or food particles that may be blocking the spray arms or the filter. Clean the filter according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

  3. Inspect the motor and pump assembly for any signs of wear or damage. If the motor is faulty, it may need to be replaced. This typically requires disassembling parts of the dishwasher, so refer to the service manual for guidance.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. GE Dishwasher spray arms (looks like an S) Thumping Noise.

Community Discussions

thumping noise from spray arms

Replaced the spray arm, which resolved the thumping noise.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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