Installing a water line for your refrigerator provides the convenience of having chilled, filtered water and ice dispensed right from your fridge door. While it may seem daunting, with the right tools and materials, installing a water line is a straightforward DIY project. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to tap into your home’s water supply and connect a water line to your refrigerator.
Planning the Installation
Before beginning the installation, take some time to plan the project. This will help ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools on hand, and the installation goes smoothly.
Choose the Water Supply Source
The first step is deciding where to connect the water line. There are two main options:
Use the Existing Plumbing Under the Sink: This is the easiest option if your refrigerator is near an existing sink. You can tap into the cold water line below the sink. This avoids having to add a new water supply line.
Install a New Water Supply Line: If there is no water line near the fridge, you will need to add a new supply line. This involves installing a T-fitting in the main water supply line. From there, you can route the new line to the fridge.
Inspect under the sink and determine if there is an existing water line you can use. If not, plan the route for running a new line to the fridge.
Obtain Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools and materials for the installation:
- Coil of 1⁄4 inch copper tubing or plastic water line
- Compression fittings for 1⁄4 inch tubing
- Shutoff valve
- Saddle valve or T-fitting
- Pipe cutter
- Adjustable wrench
- Tubing cutter
- Drill
- Refrigerator connection kit
Make sure you have all the necessary supplies before starting. The refrigerator connection kit includes the fittings needed to connect the water line to the fridge.
Turn Off Water Supply
Before beginning work, locate the main water shutoff valve and turn off the water supply to the house. This prevents water from gushing out when you access the pipes.
Choose Installation Route
Decide the route for running the water line from the supply to the refrigerator. Look for the most direct path with the fewest obstacles.
Try to avoid doorways or high-traffic areas. Make sure to leave enough tubing to allow the fridge to move out freely for cleaning behind it.
Installing a New Water Supply Line
If there is no suitable water line near the refrigerator, you will need to tap into the main water supply and add a new line.
Step 1: Turn Off Main Water Supply
Turn off the main water supply to the house at the shutoff valve before beginning work.
Step 2: Locate Supply Line and Drill Hole
Find the main incoming cold water pipe in the basement or crawlspace.
Choose a section of straight pipe, as close as possible to the fridge location. Ensure there is room to work.
Clamp the pipe cutter onto the pipe and tighten. This stabilizes the pipe while drilling.
Drill a 1⁄4 inch hole in the center of the pipe using a sharp bit. Take it slow to avoid cracks.
Step 3: Install Saddle Valve
Turn the handle on the saddle valve to retract the needle while assembling it.
Position the gasket over the hole in the pipe.
Tighten the bolts to clamp it around the pipe.
Turn the handle to extend the needle into the supply pipe. This pierces the pipe.
Step 4: Connect New Supply Line
Insert the compression nut and ferrule onto the new 1⁄4 inch copper tubing.
Push the tubing firmly into the valve outlet port and tighten the compression nut. This seals the connection.
Step 5: Run Tubing to Fridge
Route the new tubing from the saddle valve to the refrigerator location.
Leave some slack near the valve and fridge to allow moving them out for cleaning.
Keep the tubing protected but accessible. Avoid doorways or high traffic areas.
Use hangers to support long horizontal runs under the floor or in the basement.
Step 6: Install Shutoff Valve
Install a shutoff valve on the end of the supply line near the refrigerator.
This allows turning off the fridge water supply for repairs if needed.
Connect the valve to the tubing using a compression union fitting.
Leave the shutoff valve in the closed position for now.
Connecting to Sink Supply Line
If your refrigerator is located near an existing under-sink water line, you can tap into this line with a T-fitting to supply the fridge.
Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply
Turn off the hot and cold water supply valves under the sink before beginning.
Step 2: Select Connection Point
Inspect the sink supply lines and select the point to install the T-fitting.
Choose a section of straight pipe, avoiding elbows or possible flow restrictions.
Step 3: Cut Pipe and Install T-Fitting
Clamp the tubing cutter onto the cold water pipe at the planned fitting location.
Tighten the cutter and rotate it around the pipe to cut through completely.
Make sure the cut is straight and clean. Deburr the cut end with sandpaper.
Position the T-fitting on the cut pipe, aligning the outlets.
Tighten the connector nuts to secure the T-fitting.
Step 4: Connect New Supply Line
Insert the tubing into the T-fitting outlet and tighten the compression nut.
This completes the connection to the existing plumbing.
Step 5: Run Line to Fridge
Route the new supply line from under the sink to the refrigerator location.
Leave some slack near the connections for moving access.
Keep the tubing secure but accessible along the route.
Step 6: Install Shutoff Valve
Install a shutoff valve on the end of the supply line near the fridge.
Connect it to the tubing using a compression union fitting.
Leave the valve off for now until installation is complete.
Connecting Water Line to Refrigerator
Once the water supply line is installed, connect it to the refrigerator to complete the job. Most fridges have a recessed water line connection port somewhere along the back side.
Step 1: Locate Connection Port
Move the fridge out from the wall and locate the recessed water line connection port.
It will be covered by a cap or access panel.
Step 2: Run Tubing to Connection
Measure and cut an adequate length of tubing to run from the shutoff valve to the fridge connection.
Allow some slack for moving the appliance out for cleaning.
Step 3: Connect Tubing to Fridge
Remove the access cap from the connection port if necessary.
Insert the tubing into the connection port and tighten the compression nut.
Ensure the tubing is seated fully into the port to seal properly.
Step 4: Turn on Water Supply
With all connections complete, slowly turn on the water supply at the shutoff valve.
Check for leaks and tighten any connections that drip.
Step 5: Flush the Line
Turn the refrigerator ice/water dispenser on to flush any air, dust or sediment from the new line.
Let the water run for a few minutes until flowing clearly.
Step 6: Push Fridge Back
With flushing complete, turn off the dispenser.
Gently push the refrigerator back into position against the wall.
Congratulations, your fridge now has a new water line ready to deliver chilled water and ice on demand!
Troubleshooting Water Line Installation Issues
If you encounter any problems with the water dispenser after installation, here are some tips to troubleshoot common issues:
Clogs or Low Water Flow: Sediment buildup or kinks in the tubing can restrict water flow. Disconnect and flush the tubing to clear out any debris. Replace kinked sections of tubing.
Leaking Fittings: If connections leak, turn off the water and tighten the fittings. Verify the tubing is seated fully and re-tighten nuts. Seal minor leaks with teflon tape.
No Water Dispensing: Make sure the water supply valve is fully open. Check that the freezer is making ice, indicating supply line is working. Otherwise, inspect tubing for obstructions.
Water Dispenser Not Cooling: Give the fridge time to re-chill water after installation, especially if filter was removed. If water does not cool, ensure fridge is operating properly.
Ice Maker Not Working: Check that the ice maker is turned on and has had time to make ice after water line installation. Verify water pressure is adequate by measuring the flow.
Dripping or Leaking: Check fridge water system for leaks, especially at new connections. Tighten fittings, reseat tubing, or reseal pipe threads if necessary.
Reversing Osmosis Filter Required: If your fridge has an R/O filter, but household supply does not, install an R/O system under sink to filter chlorine.
With patience and care, your refrigerator water line can be successfully installed to provide chilled water on demand. Follow the steps carefully during installation. Take time to flush and test the system before use. Then get ready to enjoy fresh ice and refreshing drinks at your fingertips!
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing a Refrigerator Water Line
1. Is it difficult to install a water line for a refrigerator?
Installing a water line for a refrigerator is a straightforward DIY project for a moderately skilled homeowner. The process involves tapping into your existing plumbing, running a new water line to the fridge, and connecting it. With some basic tools and materials, and following the instructions, most homeowners can install a refrigerator water line in a few hours.
2. What are the benefits of having a water line for your refrigerator?
A refrigerator water line provides chilled, filtered water right from your fridge door. It eliminates having to fill water pitchers or bottles. An ice maker with a water hookup produces ice on demand. Water lines are convenient, save time and effort, and provide fresh cold water and ice anytime.
3. Can I connect the refrigerator water line myself?
Yes, installing a refrigerator water line is a DIY project that most homeowners can tackle themselves. The steps include shutting off the main water supply, tapping into the household plumbing, running tubing to the fridge, and connecting to the refrigerator inlet. With some plumping basics, household tools, and following instructions, you can install the water line yourself.
4. What type of tubing is best for the refrigerator supply line?
Copper is the preferred material for refrigerator water lines. Plastic tubing or PEX lines also work well. Use 1⁄4 inch tubing to match most fridge connections. Copper is durable and easy to cut and join with compression fittings. Make sure to get tubing approved for potable drinking water.
5. Where should I connect the water supply for the refrigerator?
The best place to connect is below the kitchen sink on the cold water supply line. Alternatively, tap into the main water line in the basement below the fridge. Join to a straight section of pipe using a T-fitting and valve. Avoid connecting near water hammer or kinked sections of pipe.
6. How do I know what water pressure is required for a refrigerator supply line?
Most refrigerators need a minimum of 20 psi to operate the water dispenser and icemaker. A typical household water pressure of 60 psi is adequate for the fridge supply line. If unsure, measure water pressure using a pressure gauge to ensure sufficient flow.
7. What is the best way to run the tubing from the water supply to the refrigerator?
Choose the shortest and most direct route possible. Run the tubing behind baseboards or under flooring. Use hangers to support long horizontal runs. Leave some slack at both ends for movement. Avoid doorways, walkways, or anywhere it may become kinked or damaged.
8. Why does my refrigerator need a water filter?
Refrigerator water filters remove chlorine, particulates, heavy metals, and other contaminants from supply line water that can degrade taste and quality. They help provide cleaner, clearer ice cubes and better tasting chilled drinking water from the dispenser.
9. How often should the refrigerator water filter be replaced?
Most refrigerator water filters are designed to last 6 months or longer. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended replacement interval. Reduce filtration times in areas with heavy sediments or contaminants in the supply water.
10. Why does my water dispenser have reduced flow or stop working after installing a water line?
If the water flow becomes slow after installation, there may be sediments or buildup in the new line. Turn off the water, disconnect the tubing from the fridge, and thoroughly flush it out to clear any debris. Reinstall the line and test the flow.
Final Thoughts on Refrigerator Water Lines
Adding a water line for filtered water and ice from the fridge door can be one of the handiest upgrades for your kitchen. Following the steps outlined in this guide, the project can be completed by most DIY-ers in a few hours. The convenience of chilled water on demand is worth the modest effort to install the water line. Just be sure to carefully plan the project, turn off water supply, assemble the right tools, and take it step-by-step. With patience and proper technique, you can successfully tap into your home’s plumbing and enjoy fresh cold water straight from the fridge.