Our kitchen sink faucets are an integral part of a properly functioning kitchen. We use them daily for washing our hands, rinsing produce, washing dishes, and basic cleaning, among other things. So, when the faucet fails to work correctly, we usually notice it immediately.
A range of issues can occur with our kitchen faucets, with many originating in, on, or around the spray head. So, what should you do when your Kohler kitchen faucet’s spray head begins malfunctioning? Well, it depends on the issue.
We compiled a few of the most common issues with Kohler’s kitchen faucet spray heads, so continue reading for solutions to these problems!
1) Clogged Aerator
If the water stream from your Kohler spray isn’t spraying like it’s supposed to or providing weak flow, it could be due to a clogged aerator. The aerator’s job in your kitchen faucet is to incorporate bubbles into the water flow. This helps decrease water consumption while maintaining good water pressure.
A clogged aerator is one of the most common problems with kitchen and bathroom faucets, so check the aerator before moving through other potential issues. Hard water can leave mineral deposits in the aerator’s tiny holes, reducing water flow and causing strange spray patterns.
How To Fix It
Luckily, this fix is straightforward. While you might be able to remove the aerator from some models, it might be easier to soak the entire spray head. Simply fill a cup with a 50/50 mixture of warm water and white vinegar and submerge the whole spray head. Let it soak for a few hours or overnight, then remove the spray head from the solution and rinse it with fresh water.
2) Leaking Sprayer Head
A leaking faucet is problematic, as it wastes water due to temporary or constant drips. In some cases, the faucet might drip for a few seconds immediately after you turn off the water, but in other cases, it might leak continuously.
If the leak is temporary after turning off the water, it’s likely due to dirt or debris built up in the aerator. When this happens, a few drops of water may get stuck behind the aerator, causing a few drips from your faucet.
However, if the leak is persistent and continuous, it’s likely due to a worn-out cartridge or valve. This part of the faucet is responsible for controlling the flow of water, so when it wears out, it might cause your tap to leak constantly.
How To Fix It
Repairing this problem can be somewhat involved, as continuous leaks will require a cartridge/valve replacement. However, if the faucet only drips a few times before stopping, it’s likely due to dirt and debris. In this case, you can soak the spray head in a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and warm water to help break down debris.
Rinse the spray head and check for drips and leaks after a few hours.
You’ll need to replace the valve/cartridge if the leak is continuous. Using your faucet’s model number, look for the correct part on Kohler’s parts catalog. Once you receive the replacement cartridge, follow the attached installation instructions to replace the part.
Note: Many of Kohler’s kitchen faucets come with a limited lifetime warranty, which offers coverage on leaks and drips during everyday residential use. Check with Kohler’s customer support for assistance with warranty coverage.
3) Diverter Issues
Most Kohler kitchen faucets feature multiple spray functions, so users can switch the function based on the task. A diverter inside the spray head controls the spray type; when this stops working, the faucet might not switch between spray functions.
Generally, one of three causes leads to this issue: worn-out spray buttons, missing spray buttons, or a clogged diverter valve. The repair process depends on what is causing the problem.
How To Fix It
If the spray buttons are sticky or don’t work, try cleaning around the area with an old toothbrush to remove debris. In some cases, you might need to replace the spray head. This is usually the same fix when the buttons are missing or no longer functional.
If the diverter valve is clogged, try to remedy the problem by soaking the spray head in vinegar. Simply remove the spray head from the hose, ensuring you clip the spray hose to the faucet body to ensure it doesn’t retract into the faucet body. Then, soak the spray head in white vinegar to dissolve any mineral buildup causing issues with the diverter.
In some cases, soaking the spray head won’t fix the problem, so you might need to replace the diverter valve or the entire spray head.
To find the correct replacements for your faucet, you’ll need to identify your faucet model correctly. Once you determine the correct model number, use it to browse through Kohler’s parts catalog to find the correct replacement part.
4) Leak Behind Spray Head
Your sprayer might develop a leak behind the spray head, where it meets the hose. When this happens, it’s usually due to a worn-out ball joint in the hose. The pivoting ball joint inside the hose can wear down, allowing water to leak from behind the spray head.
You’ll likely notice water leaking down from behind the sprayer, running down the spray hose, and leaking into the cabinet under the sink.
How To Fix It
Unfortunately, once the ball joint in the sprayer hose fails, you’ll need to replace the entire spray hose. You’ll need to purchase the correct spray hose replacement from Kohler. Again, to find the right part, use your faucet’s model number and look up the part in Kohler’s part catalog.
Once you receive the correct replacement part, follow Kohler’s instructions for replacing the sprayer hose. Generally, it’s as simple as unthreading the old hose from both attachment points and threading the replacement into place.
the leak only happens when we run the hot water and it is at the ball joint. nothing when we run the cold water.