How to Install a Water Line From a Flexible Hose to a Refrigerator

Install a water line from a flexible hose to your refrigerator.

If you want the convenience of automatic ice, one way to do this is by installing a water line from a flexible hose to your refrigerator. Many refrigerators come with built in water dispensers and icemakers for convenience. All that these appliances require is a water line running from the nearest water source. Flexible hoses make installation simpler, because they can be twisted and turned as needed.

Things You'll Need

• Flexible hose
• Adjustable wrench
• Pliers
• Power drill
• Spade bit
• File/sandpaper
• Plumber's tape

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the refrigerator, if it is hooked up. This can be done by unplugging the refrigerator or turning off the power at the main circuit.

2. Move the refrigerator away from any obstructions so that you can work behind it. Take care not to drag the refrigerator on the floor as you move it to prevent scratching.

3. Locate the water supply valve onto which you will be installing the flexible hose. In the majority of installations, this will be a dual water supply valve located underneath the nearest sink.

4. Turn off the water supply for the dual supply valve by rotating the knob on the end clockwise. Remove the cap from the free side of the dual supply valve.

5. Plan where you will be running the flexible hose water line. In many cases, this means routing the hose through a cabinet, which will require that holes be drilled for the line. To drill the hole, attach a spade bit to the end of your power drill and drill as many holes as needed for the line. Sand down the edges of the holes with the file or sandpaper so there are no rough edges.

6. Rinse out the flexible hose by running water from the sink faucet through the hose body.

7. Wrap the threads on the dual water supply valve with plumber's tape. Connect one end of the coupling from the flexible hose. Secure with the pliers or wrench. Run the hose to the refrigerator.

8. Wrap the threads on the refrigerator inlet with plumber's tape. Connect the other end of the flexible hose.

9. Move the refrigerator back to its original location. Restore the water supply by turning the valve counterclockwise. Turn on the power for the refrigerator.

10. Turn on the refrigerator ice maker or water filter. Do not use the first few batches of ice or water. Dispose of these and allow the line to flush out any manufacturing residue. Check the flexible hose for leaks and tighten any couplings, if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Some refrigerator manufacturer's will use a quick release fitting at the refrigerator end, rather than a threaded inlet. Check your manufacturer's instructions for flexible hose installation to see exactly what type of connection you need.

References

• Family Handyman: How to Install Refrigerator Plumbing
• Plumbing Knowledge: How to Install an Ice Maker