How To Connect a Refrigerator Water and Ice Dispenser

Connecting a refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser is a straightforward DIY project that can improve your kitchen’s functionality. With basic plumbing skills and the right tools, you can tap into an existing cold water line to supply your refrigerator with fresh water for drinking and ice making. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows you how to connect a refrigerator to a water supply line. Let’s dive in.

Tools and Materials Needed To Connect a Water Dispenser

To complete this project, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

• 1/4-inch compression tubing connector
• 5/8-inch spade bit
• Adjustable wrench
• Copper transition fitting
• Drill/driver
• Emery cloth
• Flexible water supply tubing
• Pipe dope
• Pliers
• Propane torch
• Teflon tape
• Tubing cutter
• Wire brush pipe cleaner

Preparing for Installation of a Refrigerator Water Dispenser

Before beginning the installation, locate a suitable cold water supply line near the refrigerator. This will usually be a pipe under the sink, in the basement, or in a wall behind the refrigerator. You may need to drill a 5/8-inch diameter hole through the floor behind the refrigerator to run the water line. Make sure you have easy access to the water shut-off valve for the chosen supply line.

Unplug the refrigerator before starting the installation to avoid any electrical hazards. We also recommend having a bucket or towel ready to catch any water spills.

Step-by-Step Water and Ice Dispenser Installation Process

To connect your refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser to the water supply, follow these steps carefully:

1. Turn off the water to the nearby cold water supply line.
2. Clean the copper water line using an emery cloth to buff a section of the pipe.
3. Cut into the cold water line using a tubing cutter. Check that the cut is clean and smooth to achieve a tight fit.
4. Clean the cut pipe end and the inside of the transition fitting with a wire brush to remove any debris.
5. Apply flux to both the pipe end and the inside of the fitting.
6. Slide the fitting onto the pipe and heat it with a propane torch. Make sure you have an even application of heat.
7. When the flux starts to bubble, apply solder to create a watertight seal. The solder should flow smoothly around the joint.
8. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the 1/4-inch compression tubing connector to prevent leaks.
9. Thread the connector into the transition fitting and tighten it using pliers and an adjustable wrench.
10. Feed the flexible water supply tubing from the back of the refrigerator through the hole in the floor.
11. Apply pipe dope to the cone-shaped ground joint connection on the tubing to achieve a secure fit.
12. Connect the tubing to the compression connector on the water supply line and tighten the nut.
13. Turn the water back on and test the water dispenser in the refrigerator door. Check for any leaks at connection points.

Soldering Tips for a Watertight Connection

Proper soldering techniques create a leak-free connection, and Trethewey has plenty of tips for homeowners:

1. Apply heat to the opposite side of where you’ll apply the solder.
2. Wait for the flux to bubble before applying solder.
3. The heat will draw the solder across the joint, creating a complete seal.

Connecting the Refrigerator Tubing

Once the new fitting is in place, it’s time to connect the refrigerator’s water line. This step helps you achieve a continuous flow of water to the refrigerator:

1. Apply a small amount of pipe dope to the cone-shaped adapter on the refrigerator tubing to create a tighter seal.
2. Thread the nut onto the compression connector without crossing the threads to avoid damaging them.
3. Use two wrenches to tighten the connection—one to hold the fitting steady and another to tighten the nut. This helps the fittings not move or become misaligned.
4. Tighten the connection firmly. Avoid over-tightening, which could damage the fitting or cause leaks.

Testing the Water Line Connection

After completing the installation, test the system to make sure everything works as expected. Here’s how:

1. Slowly turn the water supply back on to avoid a sudden rush of water.
2. Listen for any unusual sounds that might indicate a leak or poor connection.
3. Check all connection points for signs of water to make sure all joints are sealed.
4. Test the refrigerator’s water dispenser for proper flow and pressure.
5. Allow the ice maker to run through a cycle and produce ice to verify the entire system works.

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Water and Ice Dispensers

Installation might not always go smoothly. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

• Leaks: Tighten connections or replace faulty fittings. Inspect the source of the leak and address it by securing the connection or reapplying Teflon tape.
• Low water pressure: Look for kinks in the supply line or partially closed shut-off valves. Check that the water pressure in your home is suitable for the refrigerator.
• No water flow: Make sure you’ve turned the water supply on and that the refrigerator’s internal water valve is open. Check if the filter needs replacement or if you’ve got clogged lines.

Maintenance Tips for Your Refrigerator Water and Ice Dispensers

Regular maintenance helps keep your refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser functioning properly. Here are our recommendations:

• Clean the dispenser and ice maker regularly to prevent buildup of minerals or bacteria.
• Periodically check connections for signs of wear or leaks to prevent future problems.
• Replace the water filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for clean water.