It should be Murphy’s law that every working thing is going to need repaired at some time or another. And that includes your kitchen faucet. No matter what brand or type of faucet you have installed, it’s going to spring a leak or malfunction in some way or the other. The next time that happens, learn how to troubleshoot common kitchen faucet problems.
1. The Kitchen Faucet Pressure Has Slowed Down; Faucet Has a Veggie Sprayer
The problem is most likely in the sprayer diverter. It’s a small plastic piece that’s located inside the faucet body. It controls the diversion of the water to the sprayer. Turn the kitchen water supply off, then remove the diverter and clean it out. It may be partially clogged with debris and minerals. You can also soak it in vinegar to remove stubborn minerals. Replace the sprayer diverter and turn the water supply back on; check the pressure again. If it’s still low, try replacing the diverter.
2. The Water Faucet Sprays a Mist Off From the Main Flow
Check the aerator on the end of the faucet. Make sure it’s screwed on tightly. If that doesn’t solve the problem, remove the aerator and clean it out. It could be partially clogged with debris and minerals. Use a clean cloth and wipe out the inside of the faucet spout. Make sure to wipe off the threads that hold the aerator on. Replace the aerator and check the spray again. If the problem still isn’t resolved, you may need to replace the aerator. It may be cracked or otherwise damaged and is allowing some water to spray out into a mist.
3. The Water Pressure in the Veggie Sprayer Has Slowed Down
Unscrew the aerator off the end of the veggie sprayer and clean it out. If the holes are clogged with heavy mineral deposits, soak it in vinegar. Then, replace it and check the pressure. If there’s still a problem, turn off the kitchen water supply and remove the sprayer diverter. Clean it out, or soak it in vinegar. Replace the diverter and check the problem again. You may end up replacing the diverter.
4. The Veggie Sprayer is Leaking Water Between the Head and the Hose
Make sure the threaded connection is properly connected and that the head is screwed on tightly. If that doesn’t resolve the problem, check the head and the hose for cracks and wear. Replace the sprayhead and/or the supply hose.
5. My Kitchen Faucet Drips a Short Time After I Use It
This is normal. Some of the unused water is just clearing out of the lines.
6. The Kitchen Faucet Handle Leaks
Try to tighten the packing nut at the handle. This is a common cause of leaking. If the problem persists, shut off the water supply to the kitchen. You’ll need to take apart the handle and replace the O rings or the entire cartridge, depending on the problem and the type of kitchen faucet you have. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for replacing the cartridge if that’s what you end up doing.
