So you have a kitchen sink sprayer that’s constantly leaking water. If so, you might be wondering why this is happening and how to fix it.
According to a study from Lisa Burks, sinkformula.com author, almost one-third of homeowners experience a leak from their kitchen sink spayer at some point in their lives.
While there are a few different causes for a kitchen sink spayer to leak, most often, the problem is due to a clogged spray head.
If you’ve been trying to fix a kitchen sink sprayer that is leaking, this article is for you! In this article, I’ll explore some of the reasons why kitchen sink sprayers can sometimes leak, how to fix a leaking kitchen sink sprayer, and how to prevent it from happening again. I will also provide some tips on how to care for a leaky kitchen sink sprayer.
How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Sink Sprayer Using Pliers
Tools needed:
- Adjustable wrench Pliers
- Slip joint pliers
Step 1: Check for Compatibility
If the faucet on your sink does not have a secondary sprayer, check the sink’s installation guide to ensure there is a provision(hole) for the sprayer. It is important to double-check if the new spray nozzle matches the size of your sprayer.
Buying a smaller nozzle will only cause you more problems, while a larger one will have leakages and always be loose. For the best result, buy a replacement assembly that matches the same manufacturer of your faucet, though universal kits also work.
Step 2: Shut off the Water
Turn off the water to the sprayer, at the shut-off valves under the sink, or the main shut-off valve in your home.
Step 3: Remove the old spray Nozzle
Begin by removing the sprayer nozzle from the faucet from underneath your sink. Unscrew the old nozzle at the metal clip holding the rest of the housing in place.
Using a pair of pliers will help you disconnect the connector units without breaking them.
Step 4: Unscrew the Mounting Nut and Replace Nozzle Base
It is easy to identify the mounting nut as it is large. It is under the sink below the sprayer nozzle. Depending on the design of your sink, you might need an extra hand to hold the base of the nozzle as you unscrew the mounting nut.
With the flex and nozzle disconnected from the faucet, pull the sprayer line up above your sink. Check for defects such as clogging or blockages on the sprayer line before putting it back through the sinkhole. Also, test if it works by fixing it on the sprayer. If it is compatible, proceed to fix it.
Step 5: Install Sprayer Nozzle
When you unscrew the top part of the spray nozzle connected with the metal clip, you will find the washers inside the same package with the metal clip. Fix the bottom part of the nozzle onto the hose. Proceed to install the metal clip on the bottom ridge of the hose using pliers.
Then insert the plastic washer around the tube, followed by the rubber. Finally, screw the top part of the nozzle and test for leaks. Avoid over-tightening the spray nozzle because its parts are fragile and could break with too much pressure.
How Does a Faucet Sprayer Work
The faucet sprayer has three working parts:
A pipe that connects the faucet to the water source. A component with a passageway and a stopper. The stopper has a rubber washer that controls the flow of water. Finally, the third piece is a pipe that extends between the passageway and the faucet’s outlet.
When you turn on the spray nozzle, water flowing into your faucet diverts to the sprayer. The water flows from the faucet sprayer through the hose and out the spray nozzle. The mechanism relies on the sink faucet diverter valve, which works when there is enough water pressure.
Conclusion
With the right tools and equipment, replacing or fixing a broken nozzle is very easy. Depending on the type of your old nozzle, you may also need to replace the spay horse.
Most models are universal and will be compatible with your current horse. If you have to upgrade your hose, try installing the new sprayer nozzle before buying a new hose.
