Inside a Maytag dishwasher during a wash cycle. A baking dish, plates and a cutlery tray filled with cutlery and utensils are being cleaned.

Dishwasher dBA & Why it Matters

Many homes are moving to an open concept floor plan, which means the noise level (or dBA) of your dishwasher starts to become more important. Dishwasher noise level is also something to consider if you are living in a small space.

This article will introduce you to what decibel levels (dBA) mean, how to choose a quiet dishwasher, what typical dishwasher dBA is and other topics that are important to understand before buying a dishwasher.

Ultimately, you should learn how much noise you want your next dishwasher to make.

What is Dishwasher dBA?

dBA is how dishwasher noise is calculated. It means “A-weighted decibels”. It’s designed to gauge how loud a noise will sound to the typical person’s ear.

Dishwasher dBA is really about one basic principle: the higher the dBA level of a dishwasher, the more noise the appliance will make.

A Maytag dishwasher surrounded by white cabinets and drawers. Next to the dishwasher is an apron sink. On the counter are a KitchenAid stand mixer and a soap dispenser.

PRO TIP:
Granted, noise and volume can vary per person but, generally, a sound level increase of 5 dBA is known to produce a noticeable change in sound for most¹. Remember, it merely takes a few decibels to make a difference in noise level².

^{1 https://www.abdengineering.com/blog/perception-vs-reality/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20you%20have%20to,a%20far%20cry%20from%203dB}
^{2 https://learn.compactappliance.com/dishwasher-decibel-ratings/}

What is a Quiet Dishwasher?

If you’re shopping for a new dishwasher, you might be wondering if 50 dBA is considered to be quiet? Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine if this sound level might potentially interfere with your everyday life.

It’s useful to know that a rating of 40 dBA and below is considered by many to be practically silent while washing a load.

PRO TIP:
A dishwasher with a decibel level of 44 dBA or lower is typically considered to be quiet. You could purchase a unit as low as 38 dBA if you want the quietest option or are sensitive to noise.

Buying a Quiet Dishwasher

Due to improvements in sound insulation and the development of quieter motors, among other innovations, many new dishwashers have lower levels of dBA.

This being said, there are mechanical and structural factors that can potentially lower a dishwasher’s noise output in dishwashers. Some of these factors may include:

A stainless steel tub is generally known to produce less noise than a plastic tub³. This is why Maytag® dishwashers are only equipped with a stainless steel tub. Another benefit is that this makes them strong enough to handle high heat for years.

Sound dampening on the outside of the tub can help reduce noise⁴.

Dishwashers that have food disposals built right in can often be noisier than those without⁵. Many dishwasher models have food trap system that may help ensure that the dishwasher runs on the quieter side⁶.

The quality of materials used in the construction of a dishwasher can make a big difference in the amount of noise the kitchen appliance will produce⁷. Additionally, the thickness of the insulation may affect the decibel rating⁸.

Water cycling through the appliance plays a distinct role in the noise a dishwasher makes. Many dishwasher manufacturers have been able to combat this noise through wash cycle innovations, by altering the speed and the amount of force used to spray water, and via pump systems that make less noise⁹.

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^{4 https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/major-appliances/how-to-choose-quiet-dishwasher.html}
^{5 https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/major-appliances/how-to-choose-quiet-dishwasher.html}
^{6 https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/major-appliances/how-to-choose-quiet-dishwasher.html}
^{7 https://learn.compactappliance.com/dishwasher-decibel-ratings/}
^{8 https://learn.compactappliance.com/dishwasher-decibel-ratings/}
^{9 https://www.kitchenaid.com/pinch-of-help/major-appliances/how-to-choose-quiet-dishwasher.html}

PRO TIP:
Owners of older dishwashers or models that are too loud can install sound-deadening material. This material works in a similar way to insulation and may effectively reduce the noise. Always consult your use and care guide or the manufacture directly if you wish to alter your dishwasher.

From modern and impressive features to advanced technologies¹⁰, dishwashers from Maytag® offer a lot of benefits, including relatively quiet operation.

Of course, noise level is important but, remember, that there are other considerations to make when shopping for a dishwasher. Check out our buying guide to discover what you need to know before deciding on what dishwasher to buy next.

How quiet are Maytag® dishwashers? Read this article to learn more.

Learn more about Maytag® dishwashers here.

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^{10 https://www.maytag.ca/en_ca/kitchen/dishwashers-and-compactors.html}