Do You Have to Hook Up a Water Line for a Refrigerator With a Water Dispenser Inside?
Major kitchen appliance manufacturers often fit a water and ice dispenser to their high-end refrigerators for convenient access to refreshing, crushed or cubed ice and chilled, filtered water. The appliance must be correctly installed and have access to the necessary supplies for the water and ice features to work. You may find some of the refrigerator's features are unavailable if the installation requirements are not met. Some information may vary slightly based on your exact model of refrigerator. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Water Dispenser
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The refrigerator must be connected to your household plumbing via a supply line for the ice and water features to work. Water passes through a filter, if one is fitted, and collects inside a large tank where it is chilled before dispensing. The ice maker draws water from the tank for ice cubes. Ice and water features will not work without a water connection.
The Necessary Parts
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You will need copper piping and enough plastic tubing to reach the nearest water shutoff valve to have a working water and ice dispenser on your refrigerator. Manufacturers recommend an extra 3 feet of tubing so the refrigerator can be moved out from its original position during service. Other necessary parts, if any, are available from the manufacturer.
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Choosing the Correct Location
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The ideal location has easy access to an electrical outlet, a water shutoff valve and enough room for air to circulate on all sides of the refrigerator. Leave roughly an inch of room on all sides between cupboards and half an inch at the back between the appliance and the wall. The floor beneath the refrigerator must be even and strong enough to support the additional weight.
Other Considerations
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The water pressure in your home needs to be between 40 and 120 psi for the ice maker and water dispenser to work. Do not install the refrigerator in a location that falls below freezing; ice damages the supply line and causes leaks. Ensure the water supply is cold, not hot, before you start attaching the supply line.
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References
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