What Is a Plumbed Fridge and Is It Worth It?
A plumbed fridge (also called a plumbed-in fridge or water-connected fridge) is a refrigerator with a built-in water dispenser and/or ice maker that connects directly to your home's water supply via a small water line. This guide explains how they work, the pros and cons, and whether a plumbed fridge is right for your home.
How Does a Plumbed Fridge Work?
A plumbed fridge connects to your home's cold water supply via a narrow (usually 6mm) flexible tubing that runs from a saddle valve or angle stop valve on a cold water pipe to the back of the fridge. The fridge filters the water through a built-in filter and then uses it for the ice maker (which produces ice cubes automatically) and/or the water dispenser (a tap on the door that gives you chilled still or sparkling water on demand, depending on the model).
Types of Plumbed Fridge Connections
- Ice maker only: Produces ice cubes in a tray or bin accessible from the freezer compartment. No water dispenser on the door.
- Water dispenser only: Chilled water through a door-mounted tap, no automatic ice.
- Ice and water: Both built into the door (most common in side-by-side and French door models with door dispensers).
- Sparkling water: Some premium models (LG InstaView, Fisher & Paykel SodaStream-compatible) dispense carbonated water.
Benefits of a Plumbed Fridge
- Unlimited ice: Never run out of ice. Ideal for families with children, entertaining, or summer. The ice maker refills automatically.
- Chilled water always ready: No need to fill and refrigerate water bottles. Many people drink significantly more water when it is instantly accessible.
- Filtered water: The built-in filter removes chlorine taste, sediment and some contaminants for better-tasting water.
- Convenience: Water and ice at the touch of a button without opening the fridge door (preserving cold air).
Drawbacks to Consider
- Plumbing connection needed: You need a water supply close enough to run a line to the fridge. In many Australian kitchens, this requires a plumber to install a saddle valve or dedicated water point.
- Filter replacement cost: Built-in water filters need replacing every 6–12 months (typically $50–$100/year).
- Water line maintenance: The water line and connection need periodic checking for leaks.
- Ice maker takes up freezer space: Some ice makers occupy a full shelf of freezer space, reducing available frozen food storage.
- Slightly higher purchase price: Plumbed models are $200–$500 more than equivalent non-plumbed models.
Is a Plumbed Fridge Worth It?
For most families, yes. The convenience of unlimited ice and always-available chilled water has a significant positive effect on how much water family members drink, and the reduction in plastic bottle usage can recoup the cost premium over time. If your kitchen has a water supply nearby, the plumbing connection is straightforward and not expensive.
It is less worth it for single-person households or couples who rarely use ice, for rental properties where the connection adds cost and complexity, and for kitchens where a water supply connection is not feasible.
Popular Plumbed Fridges in Australia
- Samsung RS8000 Side-by-Side with Ice & Water: The most popular plumbed side-by-side in Australia. Excellent build quality and large capacity.
- LG InstaView Door-in-Door (with Door-in-Door Ice Maker): Knock the glass panel to see inside without opening. Very impressive technology.
- Fisher & Paykel 680L French Door (with ice maker): Australian-designed, premium quality. Popular in high-end kitchens.
- Hisense 628L Side-by-Side: Outstanding value at the larger capacity end. Good ice and water functionality at a competitive price.
Shop Plumbed Fridges at Oceania Appliances
We stock a full range of plumbed fridges with ice and water dispensers. We can advise on installation requirements. Contact us at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au or visit our Wetherill Park showroom. Open 7 days 10am–8pm.