by Francis Jock

Created on: April 21, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2010

One device that seldom causes trouble in the kitchen is the kitchen sink sprayer. Sprayers consist of only a few components that can fail: the hose that attaches to the kitchen faucet, a spray head, and a few moving parts in the handle. In spite of the sprayer's simplicity, however, they are prone to developing leaks which are easily repaired.

The most common cause of a leaking kitchen sink sprayer is wear and mineral build up on the sprayer's perforated disc from having hard water. The sprayer head is easily dismantled and cleaned using a straight pin to dislodge the minerals fouling up the works. You could also soak the spray head's parts in vinegar or a mineral dissolving chemical solution.

Another reason that your kitchen sprayer may not work is a simple one. The flexible hose that attaches to the faucet under the sink may be kinked. You should have a good flow of water out of the kitchen faucet, which is a good sign that everything in the water supply side of the plumbing is working. If the only trouble is with the sprayer, have a peek inside the kitchen sink cabinet and see if the hose is kinked anywhere. If it is, it's a simple matter to reach in and straighten out the hose.

Sometimes kitchen sprayers are known to be subject to tampering for the purpose of playing a prank on someone. The prank is played by someone who covertly tapes or wires the handle of the spray head in the open position and points the spray head in a direction sure to soak the unsuspecting victim. Technically, this is not an equipment failure, but if the spray handle is damaged as a result of the prank it has to be repaired or replaced.

Replacing a sink sprayer is not a difficult job. Replacements are available at most hardware and home discount stores. It's always a good idea to take the old sprayer and spray head with you when you are out shopping for a replacement. There isn't a lot of variation in spray heads, as they only perform one function that of spraying water on demand.

The removal and replacement process requires crawling under the kitchen sink far enough to remove the sprayer hose at the point it attaches to the faucet. A properly sized open end wrench will do the job nicely. Be sure to turn the water supply off before removing the hose or you may find yourself getting a little wet while in an uncomfortable position. Having a rag or sponge on hand to mop up any spilled water is always a good idea, as well.

Repairing a kitchen sink sprayer is one of the easiest of all plumbing repair jobs. If the cause of the problem is a mineral buildup, no tools are required. Watch out for signs of leaks in your kitchen sink sprayer, keep the spray head clean and it will provide you with many years of satisfactory, trouble-free service.

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