Had a similar situation last winter—tenant called about a “fancy” sprayer that wouldn’t stop dripping. I’ve done the putty and tape combo too, especially when you’re just trying to get through a weekend without a flood. Never had a manufacturer come after me for it, but I do try to keep it minimal. Too much goop and you’re just asking for a mess down the line.
One thing I’ve noticed with these newer sprayers is they’re a lot more sensitive to overtightening. First time I installed one, I cranked it down like I would an old brass fitting and ended up cracking the plastic. Learned my lesson—hand tight, then maybe a quarter turn with the wrench, and that’s it. If it leaks after that, I’ll use a little tape, but I avoid putty unless it’s a last resort.
Funny thing, I’ve had more trouble with leaks from overzealous “fixes” than from just leaving things alone. Had a tenant once who thought more sealant meant better, and I spent an hour scraping dried gunk off threads before I could even start the repair.
Anyway, I get the urge to just throw everything at a leak when you’re in a pinch, but I’ve found less is usually more. And yeah, sometimes you just have to cross your fingers and hope the toilet gods are in a good mood that day.