Blog>How-To Guides>How to install a refrigerator water supply line
Last updated: 22 August 2024
How to install a refrigerator water supply line
Having a fridge with a constant supply of chilled water and ice is a brilliant feature for your kitchen. Read on to find out how to install a refrigerator water supply line.
If you're planning to buy (or already own) a fridge that instantly dispenses ice and cool water, then you'll need to know how to install a refrigerator water supply line for it to work.
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to install a water line for a refrigerator, including costs, tools and materials plus other tips.
Preparation for installing a refrigerator water supply line
As with any DIY project, preparation is one of the most important steps in knowing how to install a refrigerator water line properly.
Make sure you:
Check there aren’t any water supply line connections already installed, as you don’t want to go through this process for nothing
Carefully plan the path your line will take – you should do this by deciding what way your water supply line will travel to the water source (a dishwasher or sink)
Measure the length that your line will need to be, making allowances for any corners or bends and always ensure you add an extra 2 – 2.5m of line
Remember to turn off the water supply before you get started to prevent leaks while you're installing the new line
Note: You may need to drill into cupboards or flooring for a tidy, efficient installation
Tools for installing a refrigerator water supply line
Once you have your new fridge with water and/or ice dispensers, you'll need the right tools for the job.
So, before we look at exactly how to install a refrigerator water supply line, here's what you'll need:
Tape measure
Pliers
Wrench
Sealing tape
Tube cutters
Bucket
Drill
Cable clamps
Tee valve
Water supply line installation kit
Don't have the tools or the knowledge? Hire a local plumber.
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How to install a fridge water line in 10 steps
Now you’re prepared for your refrigerator water line installation, you’re ready to begin. Wondering how to attach a fridge water line? Follow these steps:
Use your pliers or a wrench to unscrew the sink water supply line, detaching it from the water shut-off valve. Make sure to use a bucket to catch any drips
Install a tee fitting onto the valve and tighten using pliers
Connect both supply lines to the tee fittings
Start threading the supply line tubing following your planned path, being very careful to avoid any kinks
You’ll likely need to drill holes in cupboards and drawers as you go
You can also feed your tubing under your flooring if necessary
It may help to fix the line in place as you go, using cable clamps
Next, cover the ends of the water supply line connection with sealing tape
You can then fit the line to the back of your fridge using a wrench
Finally, check everything is fully connected before turning your water supply back on
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully install your refrigerator water supply line – and start enjoying refreshing cold water and ice on demand.
How to run a water line to a fridge under the floor
If the location of your fridge means you need to run the water line under the floor, here's what to do:
Turn off the water supply by shutting it off at the mains
Drill access holes in the floor and wall where the water line will run
Run flexible tubing by feeding it through the holes and under the floor
Connect the tubing to the cold water pipe by using a T-fitting or saddle valve
Attach the other end of the tubing to the fridge’s water inlet valve
Secure all the tubing, turn the water back on and check for leaks
By following those steps, you should have a working fridge water supply line running under the floor.
Still not working? Contact a professional today.
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How to replace the water line to a fridge
If you're replacing an existing water line, the process is slightly different as you have an extra step to remove the old line:
Shut off the main water supply to the fridge
Disconnect the old water line by unscrewing and detaching it from the fridge and water source
Install the new water line by attaching one end to the water supply
Run the new line to your fridge, securing it along the way
Attach the other end of the line to the fridge
Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks
Alternatively, hire a professional, so you know the job will be done properly first time.
American fridge freezer installation cost
Love the idea of a fridge freezer with a huge storage capacity? Or how about extra features such as ice makers, water dispensers, door alarms and a fast-freeze function? If so, an American-style fridge freezer could be just what you're looking for.
Find a local expert to install your fridge water line
If you don’t feel you have the right skill level to install your fridge water line don’t feel disheartened. Reach out to local plumbers for help.
Enter your postcode in the box below to browse a list of approved tradespeople in your area:
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FAQs
How much does it cost to install a water line to a refrigerator?
The average cost to install a water line for a refrigerator is £110. If the line needs to run under your floor it will increase the installation cost.
Is it easy to install a water line to a fridge?
Hopefully, using the above step-by-step guide will show you how easy it is to run a water line for a refrigerator.
You just need to add a new fitting to your current shut-off valve and then attach the line.
The only tricky part is hiding the tubing from view. You may need to drill a few holes, which shouldn’t be too difficult for anyone who knows their way around a drill.
How do you install plumbing for an ice maker fridge?
When it comes to plumbing for an ice maker fridge, here's a summary of the steps to take:
Locate the nearest cold water pipe that you want to connect your ice maker fridge to
Install a T-fitting or saddle valve to the existing cold water pipe
Run a water supply line to the fridge using flexible tubing
Drill any access holes that you might need to run the water line through cabinets or walls
Install an inline shut-off valve near the fridge for easy maintenance in the future
Connect the water line to your ice maker fridge's water inlet valve
Secure the water line, turn the water supply back on, and check for leaks
Hopefully, you now have a fully operational ice maker fridge to enjoy ice on demand!
How much does it cost to install an ice maker?
Imagine being able to add ice to your drink on a hot day without having to deal with fiddly ice trays that take up all your freezer space. If that sounds like bliss to you, read on to discover the typical cost to install an ice maker.
How long can a refrigerator water line be?
If your fridge is located quite far away from your sink, you’ll need a longer fridge water line to connect the two. But how long can a refrigerator water line be?
Generally, there’s no maximum length for your line, although you should always add extra length to your tubing to allow the fridge to be moved about.
Can a dishwasher and refrigerator be on the same water line?
You can easily connect your fridge to the cold water supply under your sink and your dishwasher to the hot water supply. This can save you time and energy.
How much does professional fridge repair cost?
Having issues with your fridge might mean your food isn’t properly chilled, there’s ice forming on the back, or the door light is no longer working.
The average call-out fee for professional fridge repair is about £105. You'll then need to pay for the repair itself on top of that.
To find out more about prices, check out our guide to fridge repair costs.
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