There are few tasks in home repair as intimidating as replacing a refrigerator water line. It can be a bit of a jigsaw puzzle if you’re unfamiliar with the fridge’s innards. But with some basic tools, a little confidence and this helpful guide, you’ll be up and running in no time.
Let’s get started so you can enjoy clean, ice-cold refreshment again!
The first thing to do is gather the proper materials and tools. You’ll need compression fittings, a compression sleeve or ferrule, and an arbor or nut to attach the supply line – these are all available at your local hardware store. You might need a wrench and screwdriver, depending on the connection type, so it’s best to have them handy.
Next, shut off the valve that supplies water to the fridge. Be sure the electricity to the appliance is also off. If your current line is all plastic, you’ll have to disconnect any old tubing running between the wall and the ice maker. Once everything is unhooked, unscrew the valve from the wall, and attach the new line to the fridge. Then, screw the new valve in place.
Now for the tricky part: attaching the other end of the line to the valve. Insert the line into the check valve on the back of the refrigerator – some models also require a second line, in this case attach the second line to the valve too. Using the wrench and/or screwdriver, attach the brass nuts and compression fittings securely.
Once the valve and lines are connected, you’re ready to turn the water supply back on! Here, caution is key: make sure the supply line is secured, and turn the water on slowly, so the connector and tubing won’t rupture under pressure. If you’re lucky, you should see water immediately, but sometimes the filter drier may need to be replaced first.
Finally, you can re-insert the water filter and reinstall the casing. Don’t forget to turn the power and water back on – and you’re done! You may want to utilize a food grade clear line instead of a regular refrigerator water line, as this will help protect your refrigerator from potentially dangerous chemicals and toxins.
Replacing a water line filter is time-consuming, but it’s worth the effort. By taking the time to do it right, you’ll enjoy delicious, fresh and healthy water for years!
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Clean and Disconnect the Old Lines
Before attaching the new lines to the refrigerator, you’ll have to take off the existing water line to the ice maker and/or water dispenser. Once you’ve found the right shut-off valve, turn it off, then open the fridge to find the water line connection. Unscrew the screws holding the line in place with a screwdriver and let the water drip into the sink. Don’t forget to plug the hole in the wall to prevent any dust from coming in.
Once everything is disconnected, you can start inspecting the lines. Make sure all of the connections are tight and that there aren’t any bends or kinks in the tubing. If it’s all still intact, you can proceed to the next step. If not, it’s time to replace it.
If you have a multi-pack of lines, you can use a pair of scissors to cut it to the desired length. Don’t forget to measure the length of the original line so you can buy the right amount of tubing – and be sure to get the proper tubing type suggested by the refrigerator manufacturer.
Once you have the right length and type of line, you can begin the process of attaching it to the refrigerator. For most models, this is done with a self-piercing elbow and a little bit of pushing. If your model requires a crimp connection, you’ll need to use a special tool for that. Make sure the connection is secure and that no water leaks.
After the new line is installed, you’re ready to start the water supply once more. Give the fridge another look-over to make sure everything is where it should be, then turn the valve back on. Should you hear any unusual noises, turn it back off immediately and check for any loose connections.
It’s a good idea to inspect the old lines for any cracks or breaks too. If you find some, it’s best to replace the entire line rather than attempting a repair. Replacing a refrigerator water line is an easy job with the right tools, so don’t hesitate to get started today!
Remove Old Fittings and Instal New Ones
Now that you’ve taken care of the line itself, you can move on to the fittings. Even if the old ones look okay, it’s always a good idea to replace them when you’re doing a line replacement. This will ensure a secure and reliable connection between the line and the wall.
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Use a wrench to carefully remove the old fittings, then clean away any hard water buildup before installing the new parts. Lubricate the new fittings and the ends of the line before attaching them to their respective valves. Make sure to tighten them securely, and check for any leaks. If everything looks okay, you can proceed to the next stage.
It’s important to use the right type of fittings for the job. Make sure to purchase genuine OEM replacement parts, so that you can be sure of an exact fit. Not all refrigerator models use the same fittings, so be sure to double-check the manufacturer’s instructions. If the fittings aren’t compatible, don’t force them on – it could cause serious damage to your unit.
When done correctly, the new fittings should hold the line in place tightly, and with no leaks. This is the key to success – for the sake of your wallet and your health – so check the entire line twice before proceeding to the final step.
Ironically, the last steps of the job are what most people dread! If you were sensible enough to use proper safety precautions, this part should be easy as pie. Switch the electricity and water back on, and wait while the fridge warms up and refills with water. Keep an eye on the water level and the line in case of any leaks, and you’re done! After all that work, you deserve to sit back and enjoy the refreshing results.
Equipping Yourself with the Right Tools
Before beginning any refrigerator repair, make sure you have the right tools. This is key to having a successful installation. You’ll need a wrench, screwdriver, and other basic tools, but there are also some specialized tools you’ll need for certain jobs.
For example, if you’re using a compression fitting, you’ll need a special tool called a compression sleeve or ferrule. This is used to hold the tube and fitting together, and prevent water from leaking out. Make sure to buy the proper sized ferrule for your line – not all fittings are the same.
You’ll also need the right types of lines for your refrigerator. There are several options available, including transparent flexible lines, stainless steel lines and “ice maker” lines. Each has its own unique attributes, so make sure to research which is right for your refrigerator before you begin.
In addition to the tools, it’s a good idea to have a vacuum on hand to clean up any debris or dust that may accumulate inside the fridge or the walls. Don’t forget to check the seals of the appliance and ensure that they are in good condition. This will help prevent future water damage.
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Finally, keep an eye out for any loose connections, especially the connections between the lines and the valve. This is often the cause of water leaks, so make sure to check for any damage before you start the installation. With the proper preparation and the correct tools, replacing a refrigerator water line can be a breeze!
Safety Precautions to Take
Replacing a refrigerator water line is a relatively simple task for the most part, but it’s still important to stay safe and take certain precautions. Before beginning, make sure the power and water supply to the appliance are off. Unplugging it from the outlet is also recommended.
Also, make sure you have the right type of line for your refrigerator – this will not only ensure a good connection but also protect against any potential health risks. If you don’t feel comfortable with the materials, find a certified technician to help you.
It’s also important to be aware of the pressure. When you first turn on the water supply, turn it on slowly. This will give the tubing time to adjust to the pressure, and prevent any breakage or leaks.
Finally, always wear protective gear when working with sharp or hazardous materials. Wear safety glasses and protective gloves if necessary, and be sure to keep children and pets away from the worksite. Then, you can proceed to tackle the task at hand with complete confidence.
With a bit of preparation and the right tools and materials, replacing a refrigerator water line can be a breeze. Just follow this guide and you’ll be enjoying delicious, safe and clean water in no time. So go ahead and get the job done today – your health and the state of your fridge depend on it!
Jake Newman is Appliance Mastery's expert on refrigeration and cooling systems. With over a decade of experience in the appliance repair industry and certification from NASTeC, Jake is a trusted source of knowledge for homeowners who want to troubleshoot and repair their fridges, freezers, and air conditioning units.