How to Repair a Leaky Pull Out Kitchen Faucet

A pull out kitchen faucet is a wonderful addition to any kitchen. This type of faucet has a sprayer head that is removed from the base of the faucet for doing larger cleaning jobs. This can be in the form of a large pot that does not fit under a normal sink.

While using this type of faucet is a great convenience, they are still wrought with the same problems. Namely, they can begin to leak after several years of use. These leaks are easily repaired by changing some parts.

Step 1: Remove Aerator

If the pull out kitchen faucet is leaking at the spout, the problem is generally the aerator head. Screw this portion of the faucet off and take a look on the inside. If there is a lot of water deposits, you can clean this by setting the faucet head in some vinegar for about 30 minutes. You can also use a toothpick to remove the deposits from the openings.

Step 2: Replace Hose

Another place where the pull out faucet will begin to leak is in the hose itself. Replacing this hose is a simple operation that requires only a few tools and a little bit of time.

Step 3: Turn Water Off

Look for the water shut off valves underneath the kitchen sink and turn them off. Open up the faucets and drain the excess water out of the lines.

Step 4: Disconnect from Faucet Stem

The pull out kitchen faucet will be connected to the faucet stem underneath the sink. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the retaining nut and disconnect the two.

Step 5: Disconnect From Faucet Head

With the use of the slip joint pliers, remove the hose from the faucet head. Be careful as you are turning the pliers that you do not apply too much pressure that will damage the faucet head and the threads. Once the hose is disconnected from the faucet head, pull it up through the base.

Step 6: Replace With New Hose

Set the new hose onto the end of the faucet head and tighten the collar. When tightening the collar of the hose make sure not to tighten it too much. This will crack the collar and cause more leaks.

Step 7: Connect to Faucet Stem

Once the hose is connected to the faucet head, feed it through the base until it reaches under the sink. Connect this to the faucet stem with the adjustable wrench. Make sure that the stem is clean of any debris so it does not interfere with the threads. Wipe it off with a rag. Use some Teflon tape on the threads and screw the hose onto the stem.

Step 8: Turn Water On

With the hose in place, turn on the water at the shut off valves. Replace the aerator head of the faucet and let the water run with the head in the base and out of it. Check for any leaks in the hose or around the head. If there are leaks found at the connecting points, tighten them a little more until the leak stops.