To hook up an icemaker for a new refrigerator, what is better...?

Question

... to use an approved plastic tubing, or copper tubing?

And if the water connection is right behind the refrigerator (it's a brand new house), how long a tube do I need?

Thank you!

Answer 1

Copper tubing. This will not contaminate the water over time. Long enough to allow you to pull the refridgerator out for cleaning. Just be careful not to pinch the copper tubing when pushing it back in place.

Answer 2

Usually, the tubing comes with the kit or with the refridgerator if the icemaker is already installed. I use plastic with no problem.
As for the length, make sure there is enough so that you can pull the fridge away from the wall to gvie you access to the back.
Also, be sure you have a shut-off valve between the source and the fridge.
Good luck.

Answer 3

They make a stainless steel braided hose for this type of installation. It goes on the valve in the wall behind the refrigerator and onto the inlet valve on the refrigerator and is just the right length you need to move the refrigerator for cleaning or repair. You can find these at your local Lowes or Home Depot or any plumbing supply.

Answer 4

I would use copper tubing and use a loop so that you can pull the fridge away from the wall without kinking the tubing. Perhaps 4-5 foot of tubing rolled in a loop.

Answer 5

You need something flexible, so you can pull the refrigerator out. So copper would need to be "spagetti" style. I'd use the plastic, less chance of kinking.
How long depends on how far you need to pull it out to get at the pipe....if the refrige is in a "pocket" you need more...if you can access from the side, you need less.
I'd use 4' minimum if in a pocket, 3' in accessable from the side.