DIY Network

Icemaker Preparation Learn how to prepare your refigerator for installing an icemaker. From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-302

Host Ed Del Grande explains how to prepare your refridgerator for installation of an icemaker.

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Materials:

drill with 5/16th paddle bit
adjustable wrenches
Phillips and flathead screwdriver
1/4" and 3/8" isolation valves
threaded brass fitting and nipples
ice maker kit with manufacturers instructions
water supply installation kit

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

The first step is to run the water line.

1. Drill a hole behind the refrigerator (figure A), and then one underneath the sink (figure B). Go down into the crawl space. Feed the line down, and then up through the refrigerator hole.

   Tip: Whenever you're drilling holes for water lines, always be sure to use a paddle bit that's one to two sizes larger than your water supply line to prevent the line from kinking.

2. Now that the water line has been run to the refrigerator, it's time to do what's called the "tap-in" to the cold water line underneath the sink. Obviously, to tap into the line you have to shut off the water to the house at the main.

3. Remember, with any plumbing project, once the main water supply is shut off, be sure to shut off your electric heater at the breaker or if it's gas, turn the switch to the pilot position. Finally, drain the lines by opening a faucet.

4. Now that the water's off, you can safely install your new valve for your icemaker water line. There are a few different types of valves you can use. For a do-it-yourselfer, if your codes allow—a needle valve is recommended. A needle valve is hollow, which will actually pierce the pipe and tap-in in a snap. It's a very easy valve to use.

5. To install a needle valve or saddle valve, simply place the two clamps around the copper pipe and use a screwdriver to tighten the screws on each side to hold the valve in place (figure C). Be sure to keep the spacing equal to prevent leaking. Next, tighten down the "T" handle until it's tight and pierces the copper line.

Next: Icemaker Installation