How to Run a Fridge Line
It’s never been simpler to provide a refrigerator’s ice maker and drinking water dispenser with water. This was once handled with 1/4-inch bendable copper tubing snaked from the refrigerator to the nearest water source and tapped into the water line with a saddle valve or other type of fitting.
Now, 1/4-inch flexible water supply tubes in lengths ranging from 1 to 20 feet, as well as Add-A-Tee adapter fittings that may be put very much anywhere there is an existing shutoff valve, are now available. This style of fitting is less prone to leaking than a saddle valve and is easier to install.
How to Install the Water Line:
Step 1: Shut off the Water
Under the kitchen sink, locate the fixture shutoff valve on the cold water supply line. Turn the shutdown valve clockwise until it comes to a complete stop. If the handle is a lever, rotate it so that it is perpendicular to the water pipe. To relieve pressure in the water line, switch on the cold water faucet in the kitchen.
Step 2: Detach the Faucet Water Line
To catch water draining from the supply tube, place a rag or small bucket under the supply valve. Using two sets of pliers or two adjustable wrenches, disconnect the faucet supply tube from the valve. To keep the valve body from shifting, use one pair to secure it. Loosen the compression nut on the supply tube with the other pair.
Step 3: Install the Tee Adapter
Thread the Add-A-Tee adapter onto the shutoff valve’s outlet port with your hand at first and tighten it. Use two pairs of pliers to finish tightening the adapter, one to hold the valve and the other to tighten the adapter.
Step 4: Install the Refrigerator Supply Tubes and the Faucet
Reconnect the faucet supply tube to the Add-A-3/8-inch Tee’s outlet. As before, tighten the connection with pliers. Use pliers to fasten one end of a 1/4-inch flexible supply tube onto the 1/4-inch outlet of the adaptor.
Step 5: Attach the Supply Tube to the Refrigerator
Connect the new supply tube to the refrigerator’s rear. Connect the tube’s other end to the refrigerator’s 1/4-inch water supply fitting. Utilizing pliers, tighten the connection slightly more than hand-tight.
Step 6: Turn the Water On
Turn the knob counterclockwise all the way or turn the lever parallel to the water line to release the shutdown valve under the sink. Check for leaks at all connections and then, if necessary, move the refrigerator into place. Check to see if the water dispenser and/or ice maker are both operational.
Step 7: Ready the Refrigerator
Run out one or two gallons of water via the new line if your refrigerator has a water dispenser. To prevent the water from going to waste, utilize it for cleaning or watering plants or simply dispose of it. If your refrigerator has an ice maker, throw away the first two or three batches of ice it produces.
Knowing how to install a refrigerator water line allows you to take advantage of all of your refrigerator’s functions as well as remove and replace the water line for cleaning, guaranteeing that you always have the freshest water imaginable. All you need is some careful planning and the necessary tools to connect your refrigerator water line.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need a plumbing installation service. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem.
We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.
