How to Fix Sink Sprayer Handle?

Having a sink sprayer in addition to a faucet is useful for washing dishes and cleaning, but it can be irritating when the sprayer stops working properly. The issue is often caused by a damaged or blocked diverter, rather than mineral buildup that can harm the sprayer. Depending on the faucet style, sink sprayers use two types of diverters that redirect water from the faucet spout to the spray head when the trigger is pulled. In this article I’ll show you how to fix sink sprayer handle.

How to Fix Sink Sprayer Handle on a Single Handle Faucet:

1. To shut off the water supply, rotate the valves located underneath the sink in a clockwise direction. After that, activate the faucet to eliminate any remaining water from the lines.
2. Using a hex key or screwdriver, release the setscrew located on the faucet handle. Once the setscrew is loosened, you can remove the handle from the faucet by pulling it off.
3. Cover the cap located at the back of the faucet spout with a piece of old cloth to safeguard its surface. Then, using tongue-and-groove pliers, rotate the cap counterclockwise. Finally, use your fingers to finish unscrewing the cap in a counterclockwise direction until it is completely removed.
4. Grasp the single-handle faucet spout using your hands, and then lift it up from the faucet’s body. This will reveal the diverter. You may need to wiggle the spout slightly in a back-and-forth motion to detach it.
5. Inspect the small circular opening located at the front or back of the faucet body to locate the original diverter. Using needle-nose pliers, grip the small diverter and pull it out from the front of the faucet.
6. Take the removed diverter with you to a home improvement center or plumbing supply store. Obtain a replacement diverter that matches the original one.
7. Insert the replacement diverter into the diverter opening, then use your finger to push it in and make sure it is seated correctly.
8. Put the faucet spout back in place. Then, install the cap by turning it clockwise by hand. Replace the faucet handle and securely tighten the set screw. To open the lines, turn both supply valves counterclockwise.

How to Fix Sink Sprayer Handle on a Double Handle Faucet:

1. Rotate the water supply valves located beneath the sink in a clockwise direction to close the water lines. Then, turn on the faucet to drain any water remaining in the lines.
2. Cover the cap behind the faucet spout with an old rag to protect its surface. Then, using tongue-and-groove pliers, turn the cap counterclockwise. Continue turning the cap counterclockwise with your fingers until it is completely removed and the diverter is exposed.
3. Locate the original diverter inside the faucet body. Then, insert a nickel into the slots on the top of the diverter and turn it counterclockwise. Finally, use pliers to lift the diverter out of the faucet body.
4. Take the removed diverter with you to a home improvement center or plumbing supply store. Get a replacement diverter that matches the original one.
5. Wrap the threads located at the bottom of the diverter with thread-seal tape. Then, install the diverter into the body of the faucet. Use a nickel to turn the diverter in a clockwise direction.
6. Place the cap back onto the faucet and turn it clockwise by hand to install it. Finally, turn both supply valves counterclockwise to open the water lines.

FAQ

Why is water not coming out of my sink sprayer?

The primary reason for a faulty sink sprayer handle is often mineral buildup within the sprayer. In such cases, one can remove the sprayer and soak it in a solution of vinegar and water in equal parts for several hours. This will help dissolve the mineral deposits and clean the sprayer.

Another frequent cause of a problematic sink sprayer handle is a kinked hose under the sink. To check for this issue, one should pull the sprayer out and ensure that the hose does not kink or bend in any way. If a kink is present, one should carefully straighten it out to ensure smooth water flow.

Why is my sprayer clogged?

There are two primary causes of clogging in a spray nozzle. The first is inadequate air pressure, which can prevent proper atomization of the liquid or cause it to harden quickly upon contact with the air. The second cause is excessive spray pressure, which can result in clogging due to the force of the liquid being too high.

How do you clean a clogged water sprayer?

To clear a clogged spray nozzle, start by removing it from the spray wand. Use appropriate tools to carefully remove any material that may be obstructing the nozzle. Then, use a spray bottle to direct a stream of water to flush away any dirt or debris. Use a toothpick to clean the tiny orifice of the nozzle and a toothbrush to scrub any buildup from the screen. Rinse all the nozzle components thoroughly using a spray bottle. Reassemble the nozzle and ensure that it is tightly secured. Finally, put all the tools and supplies back into the storage bag and seal it properly. Read also my article: How to Clean a Kitchen Faucet.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fixing a sink sprayer handle is not a difficult task, but it requires some basic plumbing knowledge and tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and repair the sink sprayer handle yourself, saving money and avoiding the need for a plumber.