HOW QUIET IS YOUR NEW DISHWASHER?

As it tackles the washing of your dishes, a dishwasher’s noise level will play a contributing factor to the noise pollution levels of your kitchen and home. When you’re shopping for a new dishwasher, considering noise pollution levels is key.

A dishwasher’s noise levels, as with many other noise pollution sources (washing machines, dryers, vacuum cleaners etc), are indicated by a dBA rating (which stands for “A-weighted decibels”).

What is a dBA rating?

dBA (A-weighted decibels) simply shows the relative loudness of a sound. The rustling of leaves which is quite faint sits at approximately 10dBA while a vacuum cleaner may sit at 80dBA and a chainsaw may sit at 110dBA, which at long periods will be damaging to your ears.

Dishwasher Noise Levels: The Search for Peaceful Washing

As a lot of living spaces now merge, you’d want a quiet dishwasher so you can communicate with your partner or hear the plot-twist in your favourite show. When it comes to noise ratings, most dishwashers will range between 40 to 60dBA, with anything between 40-46dBA being very quiet which is ideal for apartment living or households with new-borns. As a guide a working refrigerator is rated with a 40dBA noise rating.

Dishwasher Noise Levels: Brands

Dishwasher manufacturers have noticed how equally important noise rating is alongside water and energy ratings, so it’s now easier for you to make an informed decision about the dishwasher you buy. Many brands ranging from Miele, Bosch, Fisher & Paykel, Asko and Smeg specifically indicate their dishwasher operating noise levels to assist with your purchasing journey.

Buying a Dishwasher: Other Considerations

Noise ratings aside, there are a range of other considerations to take into account when buying a new dishwasher:

• Water and energy ratings: the higher the better, indicating greater energy and water efficiency
• Dishwasher type: freestanding, built-in/under, semi or fully integrated, which one will suit your needs, lifestyle and kitchen configuration?
• Size and place settings: a dishwasher’s place setting indicates its maximum number of plates and utensils that can fit in each wash, the more dishes you need to wash, the larger the number of place settings

Check out our dishwasher buying guide to see more considerations.

From place settings, to washing modes, whatever you look for in your new dishwasher, ensure noise level is on your list for a satisfyingly quiet wash. If you’re unsure about the noise level in your dishwasher, consult the product’s pages, user guides or simply ask a friendly salesperson in-store.

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FAQs

1. What is the lowest noise level for a dishwasher?
   
   Most dishwashers will feature a noise rating range between 40 to 60dBA, with anything between 40-46dBA being very quiet.
   
2. What is a good noise level for a dishwasher?
   
   This will depend on your noise pollution preference. Most dishwashers will feature a noise rating range between 40 to 60dBA, with anything between 40-46dBA being very quiet. If you need a quiet dishwasher, a lower noise rating is more suitable.
   
3. What dBA rating is best for dishwashers?
   
   This will depend on your lifestyle and needs. If your household requires a quieter wash, you should opt for a dishwasher model with a low dBA noise rating that is within your budget.
   
4. Why are new dishwashers quieter?
   
   Powered by advanced, durable and often times brushless motors, newer dishwasher models operate with minimal noise, ensuring quiet operation.
   
5. Why is my dishwasher so loud?
   
   There might be a few reasons for dishwasher operation noise. The dishwasher might be an older model using a motor with moving brushes and parts, or your dishes might be stacked a certain way where water is hitting against it. Over time, other noises such as grinding, squealing, scraping and buzzing may indicate that something inside the dishwasher may need inspection and repair.