How to Fix a Kitchen Faucet Diverter

A kitchen sink's diverter valve is responsible for changing the path of the water from the sink's spout to the sprayer accessory. A diverter valve is constructed of mostly plastic and rubber. Failure of a diverter valve is usually caused by worn O-rings and washers. These pieces can easily be replaced.

Things You'll Need

• Allen wrench
• Needle-nosed pliers
• Grease
• Small brush
• Vinegar
• New O-rings and washers

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply, either at the two water valves underneath the kitchen sink or at the main water supply next to the water meter.

2. Remove the spout's handle. The handle is attached to the spout with an Allen screw, which is usually located on the back side of the handle or underneath the handle. Use an appropriate-sized Allen wrench to remove the screw by turning the screw in a counterclockwise direction. Once the screw has been removed, lift the handle up and away from the spout.

3. Remove the faucet's spout. With the handle removed, the spout can be lifted up and away from the body of the fixture.

4. Remove the washer and the metal or plastic ball from the body of the fixture. These items can simply be lifted out of the fixture's body.

5. Remove the diverter valve. The circular diverter valve rests against the side of the fixture's body and faces the sink. Use a pair of needle-nosed pliers to pull the spout away from the body, then remove the rubber hose located at the back of the valve by pulling it.

6. Remove any mineral buildup from the diverter valve by gently scraping the valve with a small brush that has been dipped in vinegar.

7. Replace the O-rings or washers. The old O-rings and washer off the valve, and the new pieces slip back onto the valve.

8. Coat the rubber end of the diverter valve with grease, then connect the rubber hose to the back of the valve. Insert the diverter valve back into the faucet's body.

9. Insert the metal or plastic ball into the top of the body, followed by the washer.

10. Slide the spout over the body, followed by the handle. Secure the handle into place by installing and tightening the Allen screw with the Allen wrench.

11. Turn the water supply back on.