Whirlpool 'Sploosh' — Splashing or Gurgling Water Noise: What Causes It and How to Fix It
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Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: If your Whirlpool appliance (dishwasher or washer) is making a splashing, gurgling or “sploosh” noise, that sound usually means water is being forced through a partially blocked path, air is trapped in the pump, or water is draining/recirculating incorrectly. The fix can be simple (clear debris) or require replacing a pump, valve or hose. Step‑by‑step diagnostic and repair steps: 1) Identify appliance and replicate the noise - Run a short cycle with the appliance empty and listen closely to locate whether the sound comes from the front/bottom (pump/drain), back (drain hose/garbage disposal), or tub (spray arm/impeller). - Note when the sound occurs: filling, wash (circulation), or drain. 2) Check visible obstructions (Dishwasher) - Remove lower rack and inspect the filter, sump area and spray arms for food, broken glass, or foreign objects that can hit the impeller. - Remove and spin each spray arm; clear the holes and reattach. 3) Inspect the filter/sump and pump area (Dishwasher) - Disconnect power. Remove the bottom access panel (or tilt unit forward per manual) and visually inspect the sump and pump housing for debris. Remove any foreign objects with pliers. - If there is debris inside the pump impeller, remove it. If impeller is chipped or loose, replace the pump/motor assembly. 4) Check drain path (Both appliances) - Ensure the drain hose is not kinked, crushed, or blocked. Disconnect the hose (with water catch bucket) and blow through it or run water through to confirm flow. - On dishwashers, check the air gap (if installed) and garbage disposal knockout plug (new installs). Clear blockages. 5) Test the drain pump (Both appliances) - With power off, access the drain pump area. Check for obstructions in the pump inlet/outlet. If pump spins freely but the sound persists under load, the pump could be failing. - If you have a multimeter, test pump windings for continuity per the service manual. No continuity or erratic readings means replace the pump. 6) Inspect circulation/wash pump and motor (Dishwasher) - If the noise is during the wash cycle and comes from the bottom center, the circulation pump/impeller is suspect. Remove and inspect impeller for damage or clogging. Replace the assembly if damaged or if bearings are noisy. 7) Check water inlet and valves (Both appliances) - A failing inlet valve or a partially closed/shallowly opened valve can cause irregular water flow that sounds like splashing. Verify inlet hose is clear and inlet valve opens fully when filling. Replace valve if stuck or leaking. 8) Washer‑specific checks - If the noise is from a top‑loader during fill or spin, check that the tub and agitator are intact and not hitting the cabinet. Inspect the drain pump and pump hoses for lint/clogging. Also check suspension/shocks — excessive movement can cause sloshing sounds. 9) Reassemble and test - After clearing debris or replacing suspect parts, reassemble, restore power and run a short cycle to confirm the noise is gone. 10) When to replace parts - Replace the pump if the impeller is damaged, bearings are noisy, or the motor has failed electrical tests. Replace inlet valve if it does not open/close reliably. Replace hoses if cracked/kinked. Safety note: Always unplug the appliance or switch off the breaker before accessing internal components. Turn off the water supply when disconnecting hoses. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, call a licensed appliance technician.
Common Symptoms
Splashing or ‘sploosh’ noise during fill, wash, or drain cycles; intermittent gurgling; reduced or slow draining; rattling or clunking during wash; occasional leaks under the unit.
Common Causes
- Debris or foreign object in the sump, impeller or spray arm
- Partially clogged or kinked drain hose, air gap, or garbage disposal connection
- Failing drain pump or circulation/wash pump (worn bearings or damaged impeller)
- Restricted water inlet or failing inlet valve causing irregular flow
- Washer suspension/shocks or tub misalignment causing sloshing
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Helpful Repair Tip
Run the appliance empty and listen to localize the sound (front/middle/back). If the noise is louder during drain, check the drain hose, air gap/garbage disposal and drain pump first — they’re the most common causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dishwasher makes the splashing noise only during the drain cycle — what should I check first?
Start with the drain path: check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, inspect the air gap (if present) and garbage disposal connection (look for stuck food). Then access the drain pump to remove any debris from the inlet and impeller. If the hose and pump are clear but the pump doesn’t move water effectively, replace the drain pump.
The noise sounds like splashing during the wash cycle — do I need a new pump?
Not always. First remove and inspect spray arms and the sump for debris or broken glass. If the impeller is hitting something or is visibly damaged, or the motor bearings are noisy, then the circulation/wash pump should be replaced. If the impeller is intact and nothing is jammed, check the inlet valve and water pressure as irregular flow can also cause splashing sounds.
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