Discovered Metal Balls Under Your Kitchen Sink? Here’s What They Are and How to Handle Them
To make sure the spray head snaps back after use, manufacturers attach a counterweight to the hose under the sink. Inside many of these weights are hundreds of tiny metal ball bearings or “steel shot,” which give the weight enough mass to pull the hose down using gravity.
When the outer shell of the weight cracks or breaks, those little balls spill out—creating the “mystery” you found.
Why Do the Metal Balls Fall Out?
You might be thinking, “I didn’t put them there!” Here are common reasons:
- Repeated Use: Pulling the faucet head up and down constantly can wear the plastic casing thin.
- Moisture & Rust: Under-sink areas are humid. Water exposure can rust the balls inside, causing them to expand and crack the housing.
- Physical Impact: Bumping the weight with a cleaner bottle or trash bin can split it open.
How to Confirm the Problem
Before calling a plumber, look for these signs:
