Place the ice maker on the shelf in your freezer. With the ice maker removed, you can now see the fill tube extension. Pull the extension off the fill tube and place it next to your ice maker. Then, head to the back of your refrigerator to disconnect the water line from the fill tube.
How to install an ice maker in refrigerator?
An ice maker kit will provide all the fittings necessary to connect your ice maker to the plastic water tubing. The first thing you need to do is turn off the water. Before installing the plastic tubing into the refrigerator fitting, cut the tubing to an appropriate length.
How do I Turn Off the water to my ice maker?
Turn off the the supply lines water source. This is usually located under the kitchen sink. Water flows from the source through a supply line to the inlet valve behind the ice maker or refrigerator and another line that runs from the inlet valve to the ice maker.
How to clean an ice maker line?
Grab a bucket and put the water line into the bucket and flush it with straight vinegar. This will kill any bacteria that may be hiding in the water line. Flush each of the lines with plain water a few times to clean. After hooking the ice machine line back up to the appliance, let the ice maker complete one cycle of cubes.
How do you remove the ice dispenser from a whirlpool refrigerator?
Turn the water valve off, which is either behind the refrigerator at the base of the wall or in the garage or basement. Remove the ice maker line from the machine by unscrewing it and leaving the dispenser line attached to the nozzle on the door. Lift the water reservoir, which is typically behind the crisper.
How long does an ice maker last?
What are the two types of ice makers?
Can you connect an ice maker to a fridge door?
Do you have to worry about matching the ice cube dimensions of the old ice maker?
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How do you replace an ice maker fill tube?
2:475:52How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Icemaker Fill Tube and Water Line ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGet to the top of the fridge remove. The cover on the left. Side pull the old icemaker film tube outMoreGet to the top of the fridge remove. The cover on the left. Side pull the old icemaker film tube out. If there's a frost build-up around the opening.
How do you remove an ice maker tube?
0:373:22Whirlpool Matrix Refrigerator Ice Maker Fill Tube Replacement ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLoosen the two upper. Screws. With the screws loosened you can lift the icemaker off of the screws.MoreLoosen the two upper. Screws. With the screws loosened you can lift the icemaker off of the screws. Pull the extension tube off of the old fill tube.
How do you replace plastic tubing on a refrigerator?
3:417:53Replacing the Plastic Tubing (GE Part # WR17X2891) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe metal screw just provides a little support at that joint so that it doesn't flex. Now we canMoreThe metal screw just provides a little support at that joint so that it doesn't flex. Now we can feed that tubing through we'll pull on one side and push on the other.
What kind of tubing do you use for an ice maker?
The tubing should have a diameter of 1/4-inch and can be copper line, braided steel line or plastic tubing. Many professionals prefer copper line, but plastic tubing is commonly sold as part of ice maker installation kits.
How do you replace the ice maker hose on a Frigidaire refrigerator?
2:065:06Frigidaire Refrigerator Replace Icemaker Fill Tube 241920103YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRemove the housing and set it aside. You can now push the old fill tube from the rear. Then pull itMoreRemove the housing and set it aside. You can now push the old fill tube from the rear. Then pull it out from the front to remove the old tube from the cabinet.
How do you replace the water line on a Frigidaire ice maker?
0:191:15Frigidaire Refrigerator Icemaker Water Tube Coupler 241503901 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBe sure to unplug the power cord. Use a small wrench to depress the locking rings to release theMoreBe sure to unplug the power cord. Use a small wrench to depress the locking rings to release the icemaker water supply tubes from the old coupler. Install the new coupler.
How do you connect plastic tubing?
0:532:18Attaching Poly Tubing to PVC - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet's put cement on the fitting and the PVC pipe and inside of both ends of the coupler. I'm goingMoreLet's put cement on the fitting and the PVC pipe and inside of both ends of the coupler. I'm going to put the coupler on the pipe. First little quarter turn for a good seal.
How do you repair a plastic water tube?
0:511:51How to Repair a Plastic Plumbing Pipe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow we're going to take a little bit and put it onto each. Piece. Now we're going to take. Put oneMoreNow we're going to take a little bit and put it onto each. Piece. Now we're going to take. Put one side over the damaged. Area take the other side. And click it into place.
What is the plastic tube in the back of the fridge for?
This water tube, or plastic tube, is used in refrigerators and freezers. The tube ensures water is directed to parts of the refrigerator that need it, such as the water dispenser and ice maker. If you find that your current one is leaking or broken in any way, replacing the tube can fix this problem.
Is the water line and ice maker line the same?
The ice maker supply line is a small plastic, copper, or stainless steel water line that feeds directly into the ice maker. Water pipes are very susceptible to damage it is important that while installing or once it has been installed it is in a position where it is not being bent or shaped in an awkward position.
How do you fix a frozen water line on an ice maker?
1:222:36The Best Way to Fix a Frozen Water Line in a Refrigerator - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStart injecting hot water into the line. And feed it it'll start melting that ice inside. There. AndMoreStart injecting hot water into the line. And feed it it'll start melting that ice inside. There. And just keep repeating that until the line is cleared.
Which water line is best for ice maker?
Copper and plastic are two of the most common materials when it comes to ice maker water lines. Copper lines are durable and can withstand all of the pressure from the water. They also last much longer and are resistant to corrosion and can be easily managed.
How do I disconnect my ice maker hose?
0:222:24How to disconnect a Refrigerator Water Line from an Old Fridge and ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd channel locks you guys usually it's probably you probably just need two channel locks i didn'tMoreAnd channel locks you guys usually it's probably you probably just need two channel locks i didn't have two on me right away so i just took a pipe wrench.
How do I remove the line from my ice maker?
1:073:06Whirlpool Refrigerator Replace Ice Maker Water Line 67006317YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a 3/8 inch wrench to depress the locking ring. And pull the old water line out of the valve.MoreUse a 3/8 inch wrench to depress the locking ring. And pull the old water line out of the valve. Next pull off the access cover on top of the refrigerator.
How do you take apart an ice maker?
0:317:47Ice Maker Repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe two top screws that hang the icemaker to the freezer sidewall. The bottom screw if there is oneMoreThe two top screws that hang the icemaker to the freezer sidewall. The bottom screw if there is one must be removed completely allowing the ice maker to be lifted from the two top screws.
How do you open a saddle valve?
Saddle valves are self-tapping devices. Once mounted on a line, with the included rubber seal in place, all that is required is to turn the valve clockwise until it pierces the water line. When the valve handle can no longer be turned, it is done tapping the pipe. Turning the handle counter-clockwise opens the valve.
How Do I Reset My Ice Maker Correctly - Plumbing Lab
To troubleshoot your ice maker, you need to understand how it works. In simple terms, ice makers use an electric motor and a dedicated water line (or water basin) to freeze water into various ice shapes, such as cubes or little nuggets. Once the ice is formed, the motor pushes the cubes out into a collection bin for your use.
Ice Maker Troubleshooting: How to Fix an Ice Maker | Whirlpool
Is your ice maker not working? Get tips on ice maker troubleshooting from Whirlpool and some ideas for how to fix your ice maker – or when to call a specialist.
How long does an ice maker last?
The ice maker, regardless of its type, has an average operational life of 6 to 10 years. So, sooner or later, the time will come when your ice maker will begin to malfunction (producing clumps instead of cubes, springing leaks, etc.), and you will be left with no other option but to replace it. Ice maker replacement is a relatively straightforward ...
What are the two types of ice makers?
Ice makers fall into two general types depending on where the ice cubes are distributed: ice makers with fridge door dispensers and ice makers with internal storage bins, which are accessed only by opening the fridge door.
Can you connect an ice maker to a fridge door?
Ice maker models with dispensers on the fridge door tend to vary so much that there is no single way to connect them. You should observe the instructions for the particular model you are about to install.
Do you have to worry about matching the ice cube dimensions of the old ice maker?
Consumers with door dispenser ice makers should also consider the shape and size of the ice cubes made by the old machine and select a replacement accordingly. Consumers with internal ice dispensers don’t have to worry about matching the ice cube dimensions of the old ice maker and its replacement.
How to prevent ice maker from leaking?
Plastic Insert. There will be plastic inserts in the ice maker kit. Simply slide one into the end of the plastic tubing. This will prevent leaks by ensuring the plastic tubing does not bend or collapse when compressed.
What is inside an ice maker?
Inside the ice maker kit will be a compression nut and ring. Slide the threaded compression nut and compression ring onto the plastic tubing. The nut threads should face the end of the tubing. Do not forget the ring, as the compression fitting will not work without it. Be sure to use a plastic ring for plastic tubing; brass rings are made for copper pipe and can cut through plastic tubing.
How to connect plastic tubing to refrigerator?
If your refrigerator does not have a compression fitting, install the fitting that comes with the ice maker kit. Wrap the threads with pipe-thread tape and tighten the male fi tting into the female threads. The other side of the fi tting is a compression fitting, which you will use to connect the plastic tubing to the refrigerator.
How to stop a leak in a compression fitting?
One trick plumbers use to prevent leaks on compression fittings is to dab a little pipe dope around the compression ring before sliding it into the compression fitting. Turn the nut onto the threads by hand and then tighten with an adjustable wrench to make sure everything is secure. Turn on the water and check for leaks.
How to secure plastic tubing to cabinet?
When you finish the job and slide the refrigerator back into place, the tubing roll will press against the wall, using almost no space. Home Depot recommends using a nylon or cable clamp to secure the tubing to the back of a cabinet or to the floor joist.
Is plastic tubing cheaper than copper?
Plastic tubing is less expensive and easier to install than copper. You then need to connect the tubing at the back of the refrigerator. An ice maker kit will provide all the fittings necessary to connect your ice maker to the plastic water tubing.
Can you roll up plastic tubing?
The beauty of plastic tubing is that it is flexible. After performing a straight cut, simply roll up the tubing. When you finish the job and slide the refrigerator back into place, the tubing roll will press against the wall, using almost no space.
How to clean ice maker line?
Clean the Ice Maker Lines. Remove the ice maker line from the machine by unscrewing it and leaving the dispenser line attached to the nozzle on the door. Lift the water reservoir, which is typically behind the crisper. Empty any water in the reservoir and clean it out with a solution of 1 cup vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water.
Why does my ice maker water line smell?
If the ice cubes begin to shrink or an odor rises from the water dispenser when it is used, then the ice maker water line may need a good cleaning. Bacteria can grow undetected in water lines when they aren't cleaned regularly, particularly if the appliance works in humid or warm conditions.
How long to flush water after filter change?
Advertisement. To flush the water system after changing the filter, fill a gallon jug about three times with water through the dispenser. Let the machine cycle for 24 hours before using the water so that the appliance has a chance to cool the water. Advertisement. references.
What happens when the water filter isn't changed?
The water lines behind the refrigerator provide clear, cool water for the ice machine and dispenser. When the filter isn't changed often, the ice maker water line can get clogged or backed up with bacteria.
Where to turn off water valve on refrigerator?
Turn the water valve off, which is either behind the refrigerator at the base of the wall or in the garage or basement.
Do you flush the water filter on a Whirlpool refrigerator?
However, a simple flush of the water system can keep the lines clean as well. Whirlpool notes that most refrigerators' water systems should be flushed each time the water filter is changed. By doing these two things together you can hold bacteria at bay and ensure that the appliance continues to work well.
How to remove copper tubing from refrigerator?
Remove the copper tubing from the back of the refrigerator by unscrewing the nut on the tubing with a wrench.
How to clean a refrigerator with copper tubing?
Turn on the water supply and run water through the copper tubing until the water runs clear. Press and hold the water dispenser lever on the refrigerator for five seconds, then release it. Keep pressing and holding the lever for five seconds intervals, then releasing the lever until water flows through it. Place a bucket or large pitcher underneath the dispenser and flush a total of 3 gallons of water through the refrigerator to eliminate any debris from the copper tubing.
How to get water out of refrigerator?
Turn on the water supply and run water through the copper tubing until the water runs clear. Press and hold the water dispenser lever on the refrigerator for five seconds, then release it. Keep pressing and holding the lever for five seconds intervals, then releasing the lever until water flows through it.
What is copper tubing?
Most copper supply lines, commonly called copper tubing, are attached to pipes with a saddle-type shutoff valve or a compression tee. Turn off the water supply to the copper tubing at the shutoff valve.
Why replace copper pipe in kitchen?
Replacing the copper supply line ensures your kitchen floor and wall do not become water damaged.
What to replace icemaker water line with?
If that plastic water line behind your fridge that feeds the icemaker makes you nervous about water damage, replace it with a stainless steel line and copper shutoff valve.
How to make a tee fitting?
Photo 1: Turn off the water and cut the water line. Unscrew the valve and slide it aside. Cut the water line to make room for a new tee fitting. Close-up of braided steel water line. Braided steel is a tough and better alternative than plastic water line. Photo 2: Clean and assemble copper fittings.
How to solder a water line?
Unscrew the packing nut from the shutoff and remove the handle and core before soldering. Jiggle the water lines to get all the water out, then clean and flux the fittings and solder everything together (Photo 2).
Where is the water line on a refrigerator?
Attach the water line to the water inlet valve at the back of the refrigerator. Inexpensive plastic water lines and saddle valves sold for icemakers can eventually clog or leak, causing water damage.
Can you replace plastic water lines?
You can replace your plastic water line with a copper tee fitting, a high-quality shutoff and a braided steel supply line in a half hour—and never have to worry about leaks again. Braided steel is a tough, non-kinking alternative to 1/4-in. flexible copper or plastic.
In This Article
An automatic ice maker is to a refrigerator what heated seats are to a car. If you don't have one, you can't understand what all the fuss is about. As with heated seats, once you experience always having the ice cube tray full of individual cubes whenever you need ice, you won't know how you managed to get by without one.
Ice Maker Basics
Ice makers require electrical power and a water source in order to operate. When you install one, there is no complicated wiring with which to contend because the ice maker will run off the power from the refrigerator, but you do need to tap into an external water source.
Selecting an Ice Maker
Most modern refrigerators have the space and the mounting brackets set aside for an ice maker. You will need to find an ice maker that is compatible with your make and model of refrigerator. The easiest way to do that is to find the model number of the refrigerator.
Ice Maker Installation Kits
Many kits contain saddle valves for connecting the ice maker supply line to the cold water pipe that supplies the kitchen faucet. The valve clamps down over the pipe, and a pin is turned to pierce the pipe to start the flow of water. They often fail.
Step 1: Unplug the Refrigerator
This project could take some time, so it is best to keep the refrigerator portion of the unit closed or move perishables to another location. Remove everything from the freezer to give you room to work. If there is a shelf in the freezer, remove it.
Step 2: Prepare the Installation Site
Most refrigerators are ready for an ice maker installation. There are mounting holes on the left wall of the freezer as well as a plastic cover on the back wall of the unit in the upper left-hand corner.
Step 3: Prepare the Back of the Refrigerator
Pull the refrigerator away from the wall, and be sure to give yourself plenty of room to work. You will need to connect the ice maker inlet valve, or fill valve, which you will install near the bottom of the refrigerator to the water inlet tube that feeds directly into the ice maker.
How long does an ice maker last?
The ice maker, regardless of its type, has an average operational life of 6 to 10 years. So, sooner or later, the time will come when your ice maker will begin to malfunction (producing clumps instead of cubes, springing leaks, etc.), and you will be left with no other option but to replace it. Ice maker replacement is a relatively straightforward ...
What are the two types of ice makers?
Ice makers fall into two general types depending on where the ice cubes are distributed: ice makers with fridge door dispensers and ice makers with internal storage bins, which are accessed only by opening the fridge door.
Can you connect an ice maker to a fridge door?
Ice maker models with dispensers on the fridge door tend to vary so much that there is no single way to connect them. You should observe the instructions for the particular model you are about to install.
Do you have to worry about matching the ice cube dimensions of the old ice maker?
Consumers with door dispenser ice makers should also consider the shape and size of the ice cubes made by the old machine and select a replacement accordingly. Consumers with internal ice dispensers don’t have to worry about matching the ice cube dimensions of the old ice maker and its replacement.