How to Install a Refrigerator Water Line

A refrigerator water line is essential to a model that has an ice maker, water dispenser, or both. The water line is connected to the rear of the refrigerator from a cold water supply line. Installing the water line to the rear of your refrigerator is an easy project that only requires a few tools and a little time. 

Step 1: Purchase Braided Metal Flex Water Line

One of the materials that will make the installation of your refrigerator water line is a braided metal flex water line kit. This material is much stronger than the a plastic tube or flexible copper pipe. They can handle a lot of pressure and will not split after some time. 

Step 2: Locate Closest Cold Water Supply Line

To connect the refrigerator to a water line you should find one that is close. This may require using a water line from the basement, or from the kitchen sink. Some people choose to connect to the cold water line running to the kitchen sink. This is possible if the fridge is near the sink. If not, then going through the floor to the basement will be necessary.

Step 3: Drill Hole for Water Line

Pull the refrigerator out from the wall so that you have enough room to work. Drill a hole through the side of a cabinet or through the floor. This will be dependent upon whether or not you are connecting to the kitchen sink or through a water line in the basement. 

Step 4: Connect Water Line to Refrigerator

Wrap the threads on the water line connector that is on the back of the fridge with Teflon tape. Once the tape in on the threads then connect the water line to the threaded section. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nut onto the refrigerator. 

Step 5: Connect Water Line to Water Supply

Depending on where the line is going to be connected you will use the same procedure. If you are going to be installing the water line onto the kitchen water supply make sure that it is before the shut off valve. This way you will not shut the water off to the fridge when working on the sink. A piercing valve clamp is used to connect the water line. Place the clamp over the water line and close it around the pipe. Tighten the screws to secure the valve to the pipe.

Step 6: Make Water Line Connection to Valve

Wrap some Teflon tape onto the threads of the piercing valve and connect the water line to it. Tighten the nut with the adjustable wrench.

Step 7: Piece Water Supply Line

With the water line to the refrigerator connected to the piercing valve, turn the knob on the valve to pierce the copper tube. This will puncture the water pipe. You should hear the water starting to go through the water line. Once you know the water is running, back the knob out so the water can run freely.

Step 8: Tighten any Connections

Tighten any connections that may be leaking. Turn on the water to the fridge and set it back into position.