Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Do I Need a Plumber to Install a Fridge Water Line?

In most cases, installing a water line to your fridge is a manageable DIY project. The key to success is having the right plumbing supplies and materials to complete the job correctly.

Good to Know

If you're having trouble deciding which refrigerator is best for your home, our guide walks you through every step to help you find the perfect fit.

How Hard Is It to Install a Water Line for a Refrigerator?

This job can take less than an hour to complete, especially if you can connect it to the water supply line under your sink. However, there will be extra steps if that line does not have a dedicated shut-off valve.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Waterline for a Refrigerator?

Your cost will depend on the tools and materials you have at hand and the scope of your project. The type of water line you use will also factor into the cost. Water supply lines are made of copper, plastic, or stainless steel — each type has pros and cons. Copper is durable and affordable but can become crimped more easily. Plastic is more flexible but may affect the taste of water. Stainless steel doesn't cut or become crimped easily and lasts a long time. You'll also need a supply stop valve, which stops water flow to fixtures and other appliances — such as refrigerators. Supply stop valves come in a variety of shapes — straight, quarter turns, and angles — to best fit the plumbing configuration.

Below are the steps you typically need to take to complete the connection. Be sure to consult your appliance’s installation guide for details that may be specific to your model.

Shop Refrigerators Shop Ice Makers

If you've previously had a refrigerator with an ice maker or water dispenser in the same location and the water line connection is still in working condition, you’re in luck. All you need to do is reconnect to your new model using the existing supply tubing. Skip down to Step 6 for instructions on how to do that.

If you’re making a brand new connection to your water supply, then continue on to Step 2.

You’ll need a cold water source, preferably one close to your refrigerator. This may be the pipes under your kitchen sink, or you may have to identify another source. Once you know where you’ll be making your connection, measure to determine how long of a supply hose you’ll need for the job. At Lowe’s, you can find ice maker connector hoses up to 25 feet in length. Make sure to include an abundance of slack for those times you may need to move your refrigerator for cleaning or maintenance.

Next, you’ll need to decide how to run the line from the source to your refrigerator. You may need to drill holes to run the line through your floor or wall or from your kitchen sink through your cabinetry. Be sure the path does not cause the line to kink.

Caution

If you have to drill through your floor or walls, be sure to check for electrical wiring, air ducts, or other plumbing first. When working near electrical wiring, turn off the power to the area by switching off the corresponding breaker. Use a non-contact tester to check outlets and switches and ensure the power is off.

Turn off the water at either your main supply or using the cold water shut-off valve under your sink, depending on which line you’ll be tapping into. (If your sink does not have separate hot and cold shutoff valves, then cut off the water at the main line.) Turn the handle clockwise until it stops. If it’s a lever, typically you would turn it perpendicular to the water pipe.

Next, turn on your faucet to allow the remaining water to drain and release pressure.

This step will vary depending on where you're tapping the water line.

Tapping under the sink:

First, be prepared to catch the water that drains from the supply line. You can either lay down towels or a sponge or position a small bucket under the valve.

Use your two wrenches or pliers to disconnect the line from the cold water shut-off valve. One will go on the valve to hold it steady while the other unscrews the compression nut on the water line. (An extra set of hands may be helpful for this step.)

Thread the tee fitting onto the shut-off valve — first by hand, and then using two wrenches or pliers. Attach the sink water line to the fitting and the refrigerator line to the fitting’s other outlet.

If your sink doesn't have a dedicated shut-off valve, you can find ice maker connector kits with a self-tapping saddle valve that works on copper or plastic pipes. With these, you’ll be able to attach the line directly to the pipe. Follow the installation instructions included in the kit.

An alternative to a saddle valve is a tee stop valve. These can be used for all types of pipe, but require you to cut out a section of the water supply pipe and attach the new valve in that space. You will need pipe cutters for this and a file or deburring tool to scrape away excess material and produce a smooth finish.

Tapping into other water lines:

Drill a 1/4-inch hole in your floor or wall for the tubing to run through. (Be sure to take appropriate precautions when working around electrical lines.) Then you can use install a self-tapping saddle valve or tee stop valve on the water line in the same manner that you would have used for a faucet without a shut-off valve.

Caution

Some local building codes limit the use of saddle valves. Be sure to check with your local code whether you can have a shut-off valve for the separate line or if it can piggyback on an existing one.

A person emptying a blue Lowe's bucket in a sink.

Place the open end of the fridge water line in your sink or in a bucket, then turn on the water supply to flush out anything in the tubing that could hinder its proper function. Afterward, shut off your water supply again before moving on to the next step.

Caution

At this point, make sure your fridge is unplugged. Turn off power from the breaker box, and use a non-contact tester to check that the power is shut off.

This is the point where you’ll check for leaks and ensure the refrigerator's water dispenser (and eventually the ice maker) is functioning. Fully open the valve under your sink or at the other water source. If everything looks fine, you can go ahead and slide the fridge into place and turn the power back on. It’s best to discard the first few gallons of water from the dispenser or use them for other purposes like cleaning or watering plants. Also, discard the first few batches of ice.

Enjoy the Ice and Cold Water

Now that you’re all set up, you can begin taking advantage of the ice and water features of your new refrigerator. Follow any additional manufacturer's instructions on maintenance to keep your fridge functioning at its best. As with any household appliance, periodically check the pipes and connections for any leaks or signs of wear.

How to Install a Refrigerator Water Line

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Do I Need a Plumber to Install a Fridge Water Line?

How Hard Is It to Install a Water Line for a Refrigerator?

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Waterline for a Refrigerator?

Enjoy the Ice and Cold Water

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