Kitchen Faucet Not Working after Using Sprayer: Fixed

You’re washing dishes when suddenly your kitchen faucet stops working after you use the sprayer. Frustrating, right? This common household problem can disrupt your daily routine, leaving you wondering what went wrong and how to fix it.

Don’t worry, though. With some basic knowledge and simple troubleshooting, you can often get your faucet working again without calling a plumber. Let’s look at the causes of this annoying issue and walk through some easy fixes you can try at home.

Kitchen Faucet Not Working after Using Sprayer: Common Causes

Before we start fixing the problem, it’s helpful to understand what might be causing your faucet to stop working after using the sprayer. Here are some of the most likely culprits:

1. Diverter Valve Issues

The diverter valve is an important part of your faucet system. It’s responsible for switching the water flow between the main faucet and the sprayer. When you squeeze the sprayer trigger, the diverter valve redirects water from the main spout to the sprayer. If this valve gets stuck or breaks down, it can stop water from flowing back to the main faucet after you’ve used the sprayer.

2. Clogged Aerator

Your faucet’s aerator is the small screen at the tip of the spout. It mixes air with the water to create a smooth flow and reduce splashing. Over time, mineral deposits and debris can build up in the aerator, limiting water flow. While this isn’t directly related to using the sprayer, a clogged aerator can make water flow problems worse, making it seem like the faucet isn’t working properly after sprayer use.

3. Low Water Pressure

Sometimes, what looks like a faucet problem is actually an issue with your home’s water pressure. If the water pressure drops a lot while you’re using the sprayer, it might seem like the faucet has stopped working when you switch back. This can be caused by problems with your home’s plumbing or municipal water supply.

4. Worn-out O-rings or Gaskets

Faucets contain several small rubber parts called O-rings and gaskets. These create watertight seals between different parts of the faucet. As they get old and wear out, they can cause leaks or limit water flow. If an O-ring or gasket near the diverter valve is damaged, it could affect how water flows between the sprayer and main faucet.

5. Faulty Sprayer Hose

The sprayer hose itself can sometimes be the source of the problem. If it’s kinked, damaged, or has a leak, it might affect how water flows through the system. A damaged hose can also put extra strain on other faucet parts, leading to issues that appear after sprayer use.

Kitchen Faucet Not Working after Using Sprayer

Kitchen Faucet Not Working after Using Sprayer: How to Fix

Now that we’ve covered the potential causes, let’s start working on fixing your faucet. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and solve the issue:

1. Reset the Diverter Valve

Often, the easiest solution is to reset the diverter valve. Here’s how:

Turn on the water and let it run for about 30 seconds. While the water is running, quickly switch back and forth between the sprayer and the main faucet several times. This can help dislodge any debris that might be causing the valve to stick. If this doesn’t work right away, try doing it a few more times.

2. Clean the Aerator

A clogged aerator can limit water flow, so cleaning it might help solve your problem:

Unscrew the aerator from the tip of the faucet. You might need pliers for this, but be sure to wrap the aerator in a cloth first to avoid scratching. Once removed, soak the aerator in white vinegar for a few hours to dissolve mineral buildup. After soaking, scrub it gently with an old toothbrush and rinse thoroughly. Reattach the aerator and test your faucet.

3. Check for Leaks

Look at the area around your faucet and under the sink for any signs of leaking:

Look for water stains, dampness, or puddles. Pay special attention to the connections between the sprayer hose and the faucet body. If you find any leaks, tighten connections where possible. For bigger leaks, you might need to replace the affected parts.

4. Flush the System

Sometimes, debris can get stuck in your faucet’s plumbing. Flushing the system can help clear it out:

Remove the aerator from your faucet. Turn on both the hot and cold water full blast and let it run for about 2 minutes. This can help flush out any debris that might be causing blockages. After flushing, reattach the aerator and test your faucet.

5. Replace the Diverter Valve

If the above steps don’t work, you might need to replace the diverter valve:

Turn off the water supply to your faucet. Remove the faucet handle and any decorative caps to access the diverter valve. The exact process will be different depending on your faucet model, so check your faucet’s manual or look up a video guide for your specific model. Once you’ve found the diverter valve, remove it and take it to a hardware store to find a matching replacement. Install the new diverter valve and put your faucet back together.

6. Check the Sprayer Hose

Look at the sprayer hose for any visible damage or kinks:

Pull out the sprayer hose as far as it will go and look for any cracks, splits, or severe bends. If you find damage, you’ll need to replace the hose. This typically involves disconnecting the old hose from under the sink and attaching a new one. Make sure to choose a replacement hose that works with your faucet model.

7. Replace O-rings and Gaskets

If you’ve tried the above steps and are still having problems, worn-out O-rings or gaskets might be the issue:

Turn off the water supply and take apart your faucet. Look for any rubber rings or gaskets that appear flattened, cracked, or otherwise damaged. Take these to a hardware store to find matching replacements. Install the new O-rings and gaskets, then put your faucet back together. This can be a bit tricky, so don’t hesitate to look up a video guide or manual for your specific faucet model.

If you’ve tried all these fixes and your faucet is still not working properly after using the sprayer, it might be time to call a professional. A licensed plumber can find more complicated issues and do repairs that might be too difficult for a typical DIY project. They can also tell you if it might be cheaper to replace your faucet entirely rather than keep repairing it.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with a kitchen faucet that stops working after using the sprayer can be really annoying, but with these troubleshooting tips, you’re well-prepared to tackle the problem. Keep in mind that most faucet issues come from common causes like stuck diverter valves, clogged aerators, or worn-out parts.

By following the steps outlined here, you can often fix your faucet’s functionality without needing professional help. However, don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you’re unsure about any step or if your attempts at fixing the problem don’t work. With some patience and know-how, you’ll have your kitchen faucet working smoothly again soon.

FAQs

How often should I clean my faucet aerator?

It’s a good idea to clean your faucet aerator every 3-6 months, depending on your water quality. If you notice reduced water flow or sputtering, clean it sooner.

Can hard water cause my kitchen faucet to malfunction?

Yes, hard water can lead to mineral buildup in your faucet parts, potentially causing issues with water flow and valve function. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent these problems.

Is it normal for water to drip from the sprayer when I’m not using it?

No, a properly functioning sprayer shouldn’t drip when not in use. If you notice dripping, it could mean there’s a problem with the diverter valve or sprayer head that needs attention.

How long do kitchen faucets typically last?

With proper care and maintenance, a good quality kitchen faucet can last 15-20 years. However, factors like water quality and how often you use it can affect its lifespan.

Can I use WD-40 to lubricate my faucet parts?

It’s not recommended to use WD-40 on faucet parts that come into contact with water. Instead, use food-grade silicone grease for any necessary lubrication in your faucet assembly.