Dishwasher - How to Describe dBA Levels

When buying a dishwasher, it can be difficult to translate a decibel (dBA) rating into an actual "loudness" level in your kitchen. The lower the decibel rating, the quieter the dishwasher.

Actual sound levels can be a little different once an appliance is installed in the home. You might find your dishwasher is quieter or louder than the decibel rating suggests. The sound level of a dishwasher can depend on the installation location, the cabinetry where it is located, the flooring, the countertop above it, what's loaded in the dishwasher, and even whether the dishwasher is full of dishes or partially empty.

General dBa Guide*

10 dBa - Normal breathing
20 dBA - Whispering at 5 feet
30 dBa - Soft whisper
50 dBa - Rainfall
60 dBa - Normal conversation
80 dBA - Blow dryer

*Information provided by the Center for Hearing and Communication

Most of our dishwashers have the dBa rating listed in the specifications under the Specs & Details tab. Check out our current Dishwashers.