by Fix-It Club

Cite This!
Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks article:

Club, Fix-It.  "How To Fix a Spray Hose."  22 March 2007.  HowStuffWorks.com. <http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-fix-a-spray-hose.htm>  24 November 2009.
Home & Garden Videos
Home & Garden Videos

Servicing a Sink or Tub Diverter Valve

After you've determined there is a problem with your diverter valve, follow these steps to help you get things working again.

What You'll Need
Here are the tools for servicing a diverter valve:
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • Pipe wrench
  • Toothpicks
  • Replacement valve
To service the diverter valve:

Step 1:
Remove sink spout by loosening screw on top, unscrewing threaded spout ring or nut, and lifting
spout out of its socket to expose valve. Some valves are just set in place and can be lifted straight out by gripping them with pliers; others are secured by screw. If there is a screw, turn it enough to free valve. If possible, disassemble valve.

Step 2: Flush all parts with water, and clean all surfaces and apertures with toothpicks. Don't use metal tools, as they could damage the unit.

Step 3: Reassemble and reinstall valve, then test unit. If it still operates poorly, you will probably have to replace valve. Replacement must be exact, so take faucet manufacturer's name and unit model number or old valve with you when you buy new valve.

As you can see, myriad problems can go wrong with your faucet's spray hose. Fortunately, there are myraid solutions, too. Use the tips featured in this article to first help you identify the problem and then help you fix it!

Not what you're looking for? Try these:

  • Plumbing: Tackling plumbing problems in the home can be quite daunting. Don't dismay -- the plumbing tips detailed in this article are sure to help, even if helping means advice on when to call a plumber.
  • How to Fix Sinks, Tubs, and Drains: Plumbing issues related to sinks, tubs, and drains, can be fixed by the average homeowner...if you have some tips under your belt to help you identify and fix the problem. Find such tips in this article.
  • Plumbing Troubleshooting: Sometimes figuring out what's wrong with your toilet, drain, or other plumbing-related area is half the battle. Find helpful troubleshooting tips here.
  • Plumbing Tools: You may already have many of the tools necessary for most plumbing jobs because they are the same tools used for other do-it-yourself projects. Find out about special plumbing tools, such as pipe wrenches, in this article.