DIY Tips for Connecting a New Refrigerator

So you bought a new refrigerator and are eager to install it in your Maui, HI home. That's fantastic! Many modern fridges are equipped with bells and whistles that were once considered luxuries.

Now, a number of features come standard with new fridges, including water dispensers and ice makers. These devices, in particular, require a plumbing connection in order to function. But don't worry. You don't need to be a kitchen plumbing expert to hook them up.

Connecting a modern fridge takes a little bit of elbow grease, but if you're patient and determined, it's nothing you shouldn't be able to handle yourself. Here are some do-it-yourself tips for connecting a new refrigerator.

How to Connect the Water Dispenser

The first thing you need to do is find the nearest cold-water supply. In kitchens, it's usually found under the sink or near the dishwasher.

If you're lucky, there might be a supply behind the area where the fridge is meant to be installed, in which case all you need to do is connect it with the fridge using flexible tubing.

Once you find the supply, you need to follow these steps.

Step 1: Plan Out the Piping

Depending on your kitchen's setup, you might be able to run a plumbing pipe through cabinets between the fridge and the water source, or you may have to go underneath the floor to reach the appliance. Either way, you need to take exact measurements and make sure the pipe fits comfortably and rounds any corners properly.

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Shut off the water at the supply valve and run the faucet until there's no water left. This will prevent any excessive leaking.

Step 3: Connect an adapter to the water supply

There are three types of adapters you can use to connect to the water supply: a soldered tee-fitting, a compression tee-fitting, and a saddle valve. Saddle valves are commonly found in DIY kids, but we strongly recommend against using them. They're of lower quality and in many states are forbidden to be installed by licensed plumbers.

Soldered tee-fittings need to be made by hand, and are stronger than pre-made compression tee-fittings, but either one will do the trick. Disconnect the faucet from the water supply and install the tee-fitting in between them allowing both the fridge and faucet access to the water.

Step 4: Attach Water Piping to Tee-Fitting and Refrigerator

Now to link the water supply with the refrigerator itself. Attach your piping to the final connection on the tee-valve and run it all the way to the back of the fridge. Make the final connection. Turn the water back on and check for any leaks at the tee-fitting and along with the piping. If everything looks good, run a few gallons of water and a couple of buckets of ice to make sure the water is flowing cleanly.

How to Connect the Ice Maker

Modern refrigerators with water dispensers and ice makers use a single water line for both devices.

If you followed the instructions above you're already set for both.

Benefits of a Professional Installation

If you don't possess the DIY spirit and need help hooking up your new fridge, it's nothing to be ashamed about.

Having a new appliance installed by a professional will ensure the job gets done right the first time with no missteps.

It can be especially helpful if you need to install a fridge in a kitchen where there's no clear path for the piping. Hiring some help will expedite the process and offer a pleasing result.