My Refrigerator Supply Valve Lines Are Leaking

The Supply Line

• Supply lines are made of copper or plastic. A copper supply line is attached to a supply valve welded underneath the kitchen sink. The copper line is run along the kitchen cabinet, coiling at the back of the refrigerator. The copper line connects at the water valve. Plastic supply lines are also used. The plastic line is attached to a water mains using a self-tapping valve.

Plastic Line Leaks

• A plastic supply line may leak at the saddle valve if the valve is not tight enough. Tighten the screws holding the saddle valve in place. Check the plastic supply line for signs of leaks at the top of the saddle valve. Turn off the water supply line and unscrew the valve if it is leaking even after tightening the bolts. Replace it with a new valve.

Copper Line Leaks

• Copper may leak if it corrodes or is bent too hard and cracks. Check the entire line for signs of leaks. Leaks at the saddle valve under the sink will require you to remove the old saddle valve by heating it with a propane torch until the solder melts, then removing the valve. Tighten any compression nuts along the line to stop any cracks at the joints.

The Valve

• The valve is located at the back of the refrigerator, toward the bottom of the machine. The copper or plastic line connects to the valve. Ensure the compression nut holding the copper supply line--or the plastic connector on a plastic line--is tight.