- Faucet Style: Do you have a pull-out or pull-down faucet? If yes, this is probably it.
- Inspect the Balls: Are the beads silver or gray and roughly 1/8–1/4 inch in size?
- Test Retraction: Does the faucet head feel “limp” or hang instead of snapping back?
Simple Steps to Fix It Yourself
The great news: this is usually easy to fix without replacing the whole faucet.
- Locate the Hose: Open your cabinet and follow the flexible hose from the faucet head. Look for a plastic or metal cylinder clipped onto it.
- Check for Damage: If it’s cracked or feels empty when shaken, that’s the source.
- Replace the Weight: Universal faucet weights are available at hardware stores or online for $8–$15. Most clip or screw around the hose—no heavy tools needed!
Could It Be Something Else?
If you don’t have a pull-out faucet, consider:
- Dishwasher Parts: Some older machines can break down internally.
- Garbage Disposals: Failing disposals may release metal fragments, usually larger and jagged.
- Water Filters: Some systems use beads, but they’re usually plastic or resin, not metal.
Maintenance Tips
- Check Every 6 Months: Inspect for leaks, cracks, or debris.
- Be Gentle: Don’t yank your pull-out spray head.
- Use a Liner: A waterproof mat makes cleaning future spills easier.
Mystery Solved! Those metal balls just mean your faucet has seen a lot of use. Replace the weight, and your faucet will work like new again.
