How to Plumb a Fridge Water Dispenser: What You Need to Know
A plumbed water dispenser on a fridge or freezer provides chilled filtered water and ice without needing to fill a water tank. If you're buying a fridge with a water dispenser, understanding the installation requirements before you buy will prevent headaches later. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Do All Fridges with Water Dispensers Need Plumbing?
No. There are two types:
- Plumbed water dispensers — connect permanently to a cold water supply line. Unlimited supply, never needs refilling. Requires a water connection near the fridge.
- Non-plumbed (tank) water dispensers — have an internal water tank you fill manually (typically 3–5 litres). No plumbing required but needs regular refilling. Fisher & Paykel uses this system on some models.
When a fridge says it has a "plumbed-in water dispenser", it requires a water connection. If the listing says "water tank" or "non-plumbed", no connection is needed.
What Plumbing Is Required?
A plumbed fridge water dispenser requires:
- A cold water supply line (usually 6mm or 8mm OD tubing)
- A supply valve (saddle valve or proper quarter-turn valve) tapped into the nearest cold water pipe, typically under the kitchen sink
- A flexible supply tube running from the valve to the fridge connection point
- Adequate water pressure — most fridges require 140–860 kPa (20–125 psi); standard Australian mains pressure is typically 200–500 kPa, usually fine
Can I Install It Myself?
The connection itself is straightforward — a standard DIY task for anyone handy. However, in New South Wales:
- Any work that connects to the mains water supply must be performed by a licensed plumber
- Using a saddle valve (a DIY tap that punctures an existing pipe) is technically not compliant with AS/NZS 3500
- The correct approach is for a licensed plumber to install a proper outlet valve
Many people do connect their fridge supply lines themselves without issue, but the compliant approach is to have a plumber install the valve. The fridge-to-valve tubing connection is not plumbing work and can be done by the homeowner.
What Does It Cost?
A plumber to install a supply valve near your existing kitchen sink cold water pipe typically costs $150–$300 for the valve and labour. The supply tubing and compression fittings are typically $20–50 from a hardware store. Many appliance retailers or delivery companies can arrange this, or you can contact a local plumber directly.
Non-Plumbed Alternatives
If you don't want to plumb your fridge, consider:
- A fridge with a tank-based water dispenser (Fisher & Paykel offers some)
- A benchtop water filter and dispenser (no fridge plumbing required)
- A fridge without a water dispenser
Shop Fridges with Water Dispensers at Oceania Appliances
We stock Samsung, LG, Fisher & Paykel and Hisense fridges with both plumbed and non-plumbed water dispensers. Our team can advise on the right model for your kitchen. Visit our Wetherill Park showroom or contact us at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days 10am–8pm.