Tips for Installing a Water Line for Your Fridge Water Dispenser and Ice Maker

Recently many consumers have headed out to the local appliance store in search of a new fridge. There are numerous incentives for purchasing a new fridge right now and now is the time to buy. Whether you are looking to cash in on the federal credits available for purchasing energy star rated appliances, or you are in search of a more efficient household with a lower operating cost, or you just want a new fridge there are a few things you need to take into account when purchasing a new fridge.

Most news fridges come with either an ice maker or an in the door water dispenser or both. If your old fridge had these options, attaching the water supply line to the fridge is a simple process. However, if your old fridge lacked this option, you will have to run a water supply line to your new fridge. There is no need to worry as the project is quite simple and the fridge should come with all of the items that you need to make the necessary connections. Follow these tips below to hook up a water supply line to your fridge.

1. Examine the items that came with your fridge. Measure the amount of water line included with the fridge. Make sure all of the parts that are needed are included in the package.

2. Determine where you want to make your connection. If your water lines run in the basement, select an area close to the fridge for your connection point. Make sure the are has enough working room to provide access needed to install the fridges water supply.

3. Choose a location downstream of a shut-off valve. The fridge's water supply will be a piercing valve that does not allow it to be turned off. By selecting an area downstream of a water shut-off valve, you can turn off the water to the fridge supply line if needed.

4. Properly tighten the piercer assembly before turning the piercer. If you turn the piercer and the assembly is not tighten, you will have leaks immediately.

5. Do not over-tighten any of the compression fittings as this could deform the fittings and cause them to leak.

6. After the piercer is installed, fully tighten and then loosen the piercer valve several times to dislodge any metal that may be in the way. The metal from the copper line may obstruct water flow resulting in poor water dispensing performance and insufficient ice making capabilities.

Adding a water supply line to your new fridge is a simple process that does not require a plumber. You can do this yourself by following the tips listed above and save money by performing the task on your own.