How to Install a Sink Sprayer
A simple kitchen upgrade.
Installing a kitchen sink sprayer – also known as a side sprayer – is a simple and affordable upgrade that enhances your kitchen’s functionality without requiring major plumbing work. If you're looking for a quick way to improve your sink setup, a sprayer is a must-have addition! Continue reading for step-by-step instructions on how to install a sink sprayer.
Step 1: Understand the Parts of a Sink Sprayer
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the parts of a sink sprayer and how they fit together so your installation will run smoothly. Use the diagram below as a reference as you’re piecing together your new sink accessory:
It's also a good idea to know how a kitchen sink sprayer fits into your existing sink and faucet system – the diagram below should help you visualize it.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools nearby for convenience. Here’s what this installation project requires:
- Pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s putty
- Hand drill (if an additional mounting hole is needed)
Step 3: Evaluate Sink’s Existing Mount & Mounting Holes
To accommodate a side sprayer, your kitchen faucet will need a water diverter and an appropriately sized mounting hole. A water diverter is usually a capped, threaded pipe that juts out under the faucet assembly right between the hot and cold water supply lines.
If your faucet lacks this attachment, you may have to purchase a new faucet with a water diverter in order to install a side sprayer. Most sinks also have a mounting hole beside the faucet or in the faucet plate that can fit a side sprayer – if your sink lacks one or if it is too small, use your hand drill to drill an appropriately sized hole beside the faucet.
Step 4: Turn Off Water Supply
Use either the shut-off valves beneath your sink or, if your setup lacks those, shut off the water using your house’s main water shut-off valve. To prevent water leakage during installation, turn your faucet’s handles on to let out any residual water.
Step 5: Prepare Mounting Hole
If not already assembled, thread the flange onto the bottom of the shank and screw it on until it reaches the top of the shank.
Wrap some plumber’s putty around the underside of the flange and insert the shank and flange assembly into the mounting hole from above. Beneath the sink, thread the lock nut and washer (if your assembly has one) onto the bottom of the shank and tighten it using a wrench until secure. Remove excess putty after tightening.
Step 6: Assemble Spray Hose & Sprayer Nozzle
If not already assembled, screw the sprayer nozzle onto the larger end of the spray hose. Try to not over tighten (this can cause pressure to build up when the sprayer is in use).
Step 7: Thread Spray Hose Into Mounting Hole
Thread the smaller end of the spray hose into the shank and flange from above. Feed the hose all the way through and allow the sprayer nozzle to sit within its holder.
Step 8: Connect Spray Hose to Water Diverter
Beneath the sink, use pliers to loosen and remove the cap on the water diverter, if yours has one. Keep the cap in a safe place in case you decide to uninstall your sink sprayer at a later date.
Screw the hex nut end of your hose into the water diverter. Some water diverter and supply hose setups allow you to simply press the hose onto the diverter to connect it. Tug gently on the hose to confirm it is connected properly.
Step 9: Turn Water Supply Back On & Test
Run your faucet to ensure it is working properly. Remove the sink sprayer from its mount and test it by spraying it into your sink basin at different pressures. Ensure there are no leaks below your sink.
Tip!
Take your dish washing experience to the next level by installing a new kitchen faucet! Here are some guides to help you get started:
Types of Kitchen Faucets
How to Measure for a New Kitchen Faucet
How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet
Why You Need a Sink Sprayer
(Shop this image: side spray kitchen faucets, orange dish towels, wood cutting boards, and white backsplash tiles)
A sink sprayer is a game-changer for any kitchen – offering convenience, efficiency, and versatility. It makes rinsing dishes, filling pots, and cleaning the sink much easier by providing a powerful, targeted stream of water. With a flexible hose, it reaches areas that a standard faucet can’t – helping to wash away stubborn food debris and making kitchen cleanup a breeze.