How to Install the Water Line for an Ice Maker
When you install an ice maker in your refrigerator, you have to connect a water line in order for it to be able to make ice cubes. This water line connects to the water inlet at the ice maker and to a water supply line in the house. The easiest way to install the water line is to select a connection point as close as possible to the refrigerator. The water line installation is not difficult, and does not require the services of a plumber. The average do-it-yourselfer can manage this project easily with a few basic tools. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Drill
- Drill bits
- Towels
- Shutoff valve
- Screwdriver set
- Copper tubing
- 2 compression nuts
- 2 ferrules
- Adjustable wrench
Instructions
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Turn off the water supply to the line in which you are connecting the ice maker line. Locate a vertical cold water pipe to connect the valve. Drill a hole in one side of the supply line large enough to accommodate the shutoff valve using a drill and drill bit. Install the shutoff valve in the opening and tighten the clamp using a screwdriver.
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2
Unroll the copper tubing and route it as necessary so that you can connect it to the shutoff valve. Insert a compression nut and a ferrule on the copper tubing. Connect the tubing to the shutoff valve and tighten the compression nut using an adjustable wrench. Depending on your routing, you may have to drill holes to accommodate the tubing using a drill and drill bit.
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3
Pull the refrigerator away from the wall. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. Form a large loop with the copper tubing behind the refrigerator. Insert a compression nut and ferrule on the end of the tubing. Connect the tubing to the water inlet valve near the bottom of the refrigerator in the back. Tighten the fitting using an adjustable wrench.
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4
Plug the power cord in to the electrical outlet. Push the refrigerator back against the wall. Turn the water supply valve on for the ice maker water line. Turn the water supply valve on for the main water line. Open the freezer compartment and make sure the ice maker is set to the "On" position. Allow several hours for the ice maker to start producing ice.
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