How many dB is considered quiet for a dishwasher?
A “quiet” dishwasher is typically 44 dBA or lower; ultra-quiet models can run in the high-30s dBA range. For your Whirlpool WDPA70SAMZ2, the exact sound rating depends on the specific build and insulation package, but 44 dBA is the common quiet benchmark.
- 38 to 41 dBA: very quiet; often hard to hear in an open kitchen
- 42 to 44 dBA: quiet; normal conversation easily covers the sound
- 45 to 49 dBA: moderately quiet; you will notice it in a quiet room
- 50 dBA and up: average to louder; more noticeable wash and drain sounds
Even at the same dBA rating, real-world noise can change based on installation and use:
- Loose mounting or cabinet contact can amplify vibration
- A kinked or vibrating drain hose can add a buzzing sound
- Hard items (pots, utensils) touching the spray arm can rattle
- A worn rack can let dishes shift and clink
- Water pressure and drain flow can change fill and drain sound
| Symptom | Most common cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Rattling/clanking | Dishes contacting each other or the spray arm | Reload so items do not touch; secure light plastics |
| Buzzing during drain | Drain hose vibrating | Reposition and secure the hose; check for kinks |
| Thumping/knocking | Spray arm hitting a tall item | Move tall items to the sides or upper rack |
| Vibration/hum | Dishwasher not firmly fastened | Refasten to the cabinet or floor |
Lower dBA usually means better insulation and smoother wash system operation, which makes the dishwasher easier to run overnight or during meals. If your WDPA70SAMZ2 suddenly gets louder, it often points to a loading issue or a part starting to wear.
For loading tips that also reduce rattles and spray-arm contact, use our how to load a dishwasher video.
Last updated: February 2026
Is WDPA70SAMZ2 discontinued?
Yes. The Whirlpool dishwasher model WDPA70SAMZ2 is discontinued, which means it is no longer being manufactured or sold as a new unit. You can still keep it running by replacing worn or failed components using the parts listed for this model, such as the latch assembly (includes switch) W11412299.
A discontinued model can still be a great candidate for repair. In most cases:
- Replacement parts remain available for years after production ends.
- Common wear items (door seals, racks, valves, hoses) are typically the first parts customers replace.
- Some cosmetic items (panels, caps) can become harder to find over time.
- Using the correct model number (WDPA70SAMZ2) helps ensure part compatibility.
If you are troubleshooting a symptom (won’t start, won’t fill, leaks, won’t drain), we recommend these basics first:
- Confirm the door closes and latches firmly (a bad latch can prevent starting).
- Check for standing water and a kinked drain hose.
- Look for water at the bottom edge of the door (seal issues).
- If the dishwasher won’t fill, verify the water supply valve is on.
- If you see an error code, match it to the correct Whirlpool family.
For code-based troubleshooting, use our how to reset a Whirlpool dishwasher steps first, then reference the appropriate Whirlpool error code guide.
| Symptom | Likely area | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t start or stops mid-cycle | Door latch/switch | Latch assembly (includes switch) W11412299 |
| Won’t fill or fills slowly | Water inlet/fill system | Fill valve assembly W11434044 |
| Leaks at the bottom of the door | Door sealing | Seal, door bottom W11664713 |
| Not draining | Drain path | Hose-drain,e W11414944 |
Knowing WDPA70SAMZ2 is discontinued sets expectations: you are shopping for replacement parts, not a new unit. The good news is that targeted repairs (like a latch, fill valve, or door seal) often restore normal washing performance quickly and cost-effectively.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the filter on Whirlpool WDPA70SAMZ2?
On the Whirlpool WDPA70SAMZ2 dishwasher, the filter is in the bottom of the tub, directly under the lower dishrack. Pull the lower rack out to access the filter area, then remove and clean the filter so water can circulate and drain properly.
- Turn the dishwasher off.
- Slide the lower rack out.
- Locate the filter assembly in the sump area at the bottom center of the tub.
- Unlock and lift the filter out (most Whirlpool filters twist to release).
- Rinse under warm water and scrub gently with a soft brush.
- Reinstall the filter fully seated and locked, then reinstall the rack.
- Clean the filter when you notice gritty dishes, cloudy glasses, or slow draining.
- Check for labels, glass, or food debris around the filter and sump.
- Avoid running without the filter installed; it can damage the wash system.
- If the lower rack blocks access or is damaged, inspect the dishwasher dishrack, lower W10728159.
- If you still have standing water after cleaning, follow a drain troubleshooting guide like dishwasher not draining video.
| Symptom | Common cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Food bits left on dishes | Filter clogged | Clean filter and sump area |
| Dishwasher smells | Debris trapped in filter | Clean filter; run a cleaning cycle |
| Water left in bottom | Drain path restricted | Clean filter; check drain hose routing |
| Poor spray | Debris recirculating | Clean filter; check spray arm holes |
A clean filter helps your WDPA70SAMZ2 maintain strong wash pressure, prevents debris from recirculating onto dishes, and reduces the chance of drain issues that can trigger error codes.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the most common problem with a whirlpool dishwasher?
On Whirlpool dishwashers like model WDPA70SAMZ2, the most common service issues are not draining and poor cleaning, usually caused by a clogged drain path, debris in the sump area, or restricted spray arm flow. Leaks and no-start problems are also common and often trace back to seals or the door latch.
- Won’t drain: drain hose restriction, debris in sump, drain path blockage
- Not cleaning well: clogged spray arm holes, circulation restriction, loading issues
- Leaking: worn door seals or tub gasket, loose connections
- Won’t start/stops: door not latching, latch switch not closing, control issue
- Fill problems: water supply issue, inlet valve problem, float switch stuck
- Reset power (turn off for 1 minute, then restart) and try a normal cycle.
- Confirm the door closes fully; racks or tall items can prevent a solid latch.
- Check the drain hose for kinks and make sure the sink or disposer connection is clear.
- Clean the bottom area (sump) and rinse out any visible debris.
- Run hot water at the sink for 30 to 60 seconds before starting.
| Symptom | Part to check | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t start | Latch assembly (includes switch) W11412299 | Door-closed sensing and cycle start |
| Not draining | Hose-drain,e W11414944 | Drain flow out of the dishwasher |
| Not filling | Fill valve assembly W11434044 | Water entering the tub |
| Overfilling/no fill | Dishwasher float switch W11545764 | Water level control |
| Leaking at door | Seal, door bottom W11664713 | Seals the lower edge of the door |
Drain and wash problems can look similar; a dishwasher that “won’t run” may actually be failing to fill or sense a closed door. Matching the symptom to the right system helps you replace the correct part the first time.
For code-based troubleshooting, use Whirlpool dishwasher error codes.
Last updated: February 2026





