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How to install a refrigerator water line in 5 easy steps
Installing a water line to your refrigerator enables you to use helpful features like ice makers and water dispensers, offering convenience and refreshment at your fingertips. Discover the steps to install a water line to your fridge with this guide. For specific instructions tailored to your refrigerator model, consult your model’s installation instructions for full details.
How to connect a water line to your fridge
Keep in mind that this is a general overview of water line installation, and different units may require different steps or supplies. Consult your installation instructions for information specific to your refrigerator model. Read on to learn how to connect a kitchen water supply line to the water line inlet on the back of your refrigerator.
IMPORTANT: Plumbing shall be installed in accordance with the International Plumbing Code and any local codes and ordinances.
Supplies
Tee fitting
¼-inch copper water supply tubing
Tools
Flat-blade screwdriver
2 adjustable wrenches
¼" nut driver
1. Turn off the water supply
Once you have unplugged the unit’s power supply. Be sure to check behind the fridge to see if there is a water line and a water supply valve already in place. If not, the water line can be connected to the water supply below the sink, turning it clockwise to shut it off. Allow the remaining water to flush from the line by turning on your faucet until the water finishes draining.
2. Connect the tubing to the water supply
Use a ¼" soft copper tubing, ensuring you have the proper length. Cut both ends square and slip the compression sleeve and nut onto the tubing. Insert the end of the tubing into the water supply outlet as far as it will go and screw the compression nut onto the outlet with an adjustable wrench.
3. Flush out the tubing
Place the free end of the tubing into a small bucket or sink and turn on the water supply. Allow water to flush through the tubing until it is clear to help prevent possible water valve malfunction. Once complete, turn off the water supply and bend the tubing to meet the water line inlet located on the back of the refrigerator cabinet.
4. Connect the water supply tubing to the refrigerator
Once you have reached the back of the unit, remove the short, black plastic piece from the end of the water line inlet and connect the water line tubing, tightening the nut into place using a wrench. Be sure not to over-tighten. Install a water supply tube clamp around the water supply line to reduce strain on the coupling.
5. Turn on the water supply
Locate the water supply valve beneath the sink and turn it back on by twisting it counterclockwise. Check for leaks at all connection points of the tubing and tighten the connections as needed. Once you have checked that there are no leaks, push the unit back into place and reconnect its power supply.
Is it easy to install a water line to a fridge?
Installing a water line to the fridge can be an easy task that doesn’t necessarily require a plumber, depending on your skill level. However, if the line needs to extend over long distances or navigate through floors and walls, or if other complicated issues arise, it’s advisable to seek the expertise of a professional.
What size line is used when installing a refrigerator water line?
When it comes to installing your new refrigerator, the tubing used to connect the water supply to your unit should have a ¼-inch diameter. This will enable the tubing to connect to the refrigerator’s supply fitting.
Is the refrigerator ice maker line the same as the water line?
The water line is sometimes referred to as the refrigerator ice maker line. Both terms can be used interchangeably to refer to the valve that dispenses water into your ice maker and water dispenser.
Read more on how a refrigerator ice maker works and how to troubleshoot if your ice maker is not working.
Can a refrigerator dispense ice or water without a water line?
A water line is required to dispense ice or water, however, refrigerators do not need water lines if they do not have an ice or water dispenser. If you do not connect your refrigerator to a water line, you can make ice by manually adding water to an empty ice maker mold and keeping it in your freezer.
Additional tips for refrigerator water line installation:
To help ensure your drinking water remains pure and tastes fresh, experts advise changing your refrigerator's water filter every six months. Continue reading for additional guidance on installing a refrigerator water line.
Use copper tubing to help prevent off taste and odor in water and ice.
Tubing should only be installed in areas where temperatures will remain above freezing.
Flush out several gallons of water to rid the line of any air and residual contaminants.
Dispose of the first two batches of ice from your ice maker.
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Whirlpool brand offers a diverse selection of refrigerators, featuring flexible storage solutions, various styles, and capacities to accommodate any home. If you choose a refrigerator without an ice maker, you can purchase a separate ice maker or make your own ice using an ice cube tray.
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