Symptoms
- Water stays at the main spout even when the sprayer is activated
- Sprayer only gets a trickle while the spout still flows fully
- Diverter used to switch smoothly but has gotten sticky
- Squeezing the sprayer handle does nothing to redirect flow
Likely causes
- CommonMineral scale built up inside the diverterDeposits can jam the small moving parts that redirect water flow.
- CommonWorn diverter seal or springParts that press the diverter closed or open can wear out over time.
- PossibleDebris lodged in the diverter bodySediment can physically block the switching mechanism.
- PossibleDiverter simply worn out after years of useEspecially likely if the faucet is older than 10 years.
What to do
- Turn off the water supply under the sink before disassembling the faucet.
- Locate the diverter, typically inside the faucet body near the base of the spout, referencing the manufacturer's diagram if available.
- Remove the diverter carefully, keeping track of its orientation.
- Soak it in white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral scale, then rinse and scrub gently.
- Reinstall the cleaned diverter and test if it switches flow correctly.
- If it's still stuck or doesn't switch fully, replace the diverter with an exact match for the faucet model.
- Restore water and test switching between spout and sprayer several times to confirm it works consistently.
Tools and parts
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Vinegar
Faucet diverter valveSearch: “kitchen faucet diverter valve replacement”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if the diverter is difficult to access on your specific faucet model or replacement doesn't restore switching.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.