How to Install a Water Dispenser in Refrigerator Plumbing

Locate a cold-water pipe nearest to the refrigerator. The line may be under the floor or in a crawl space or basement under the kitchen. You can also elect to install the saddle valve on a cold-water pipe under the sink. Whatever pipe you choose, it must be a copper pipe that carries only cold water.

Turn off the water at the main valve.

Clean a 6-inch area of the pipe using a piece of steel wool. Rub the pipe until it's bright and clean.

Place the saddle valve around the pipe and screw on the two nuts around the base of the valve. Tighten the nuts with a wrench.

Turn the T-handle on top of the saddle valve clockwise to pierce the pipe. Turn the handle until it stops in the full "off" position.

Place one end of a refrigerator water supply hose onto the pipe threads near the top of the saddle valve. Tighten the nut on the hose with pliers.

Run the supply line to the water connection port on the rear of the refrigerator. Turn the nut on the hose clockwise with a wrench until tight.

Turn the T-handle on the saddle valve counterclockwise about four times. This will begin the flow of water from the tapped pipe to the refrigerator water dispenser.

Wait 30 seconds for the line to charge and place a cup in the refrigerator water dispenser until water begins to flow out.