Do All Fridges With Ice Makers Need Plumbing?

Thinking about upgrading your kitchen with a fridge that makes ice—but worried about plumbing? You’re not alone. Many homeowners wonder, “Do all fridges with ice makers need plumbing?” The short answer: no, not all of them do—but it depends on the type you choose. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to pick the right model for your home, avoid costly installation surprises, and enjoy chilled drinks without the hassle.

What Types of Fridges Have Ice Makers?

Not all refrigerators with ice makers are built the same. Understanding the two main categories is key to knowing whether plumbing is required:

1. Plumbed (Built-in) Ice Makers

These are commonly found in built-in or high-end French door and side-by-side refrigerators. They connect directly to your home’s water line for a continuous supply of water.

✅ Pros:

• Automatic ice production (no refilling needed)
• Often include water dispensers
• Ideal for frequent entertainers or large households

❌ Cons:

• Requires professional installation
• Needs access to a water line (not all kitchens have this)
• Higher upfront and maintenance costs

2. Non-Plumbed (Manual Fill) Ice Makers

Also called “self-contained” or “portable” ice makers, these units have a built-in water reservoir you fill manually.

✅ Pros:

• No plumbing needed—perfect for apartments, RVs, or rentals
• Easy to move or uninstall
• Lower cost and simpler setup

❌ Cons:

• Limited ice output (typically 1–2 lbs per cycle)
• Requires regular refilling
• May not include a water dispenser

💡 Fun Fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, over 60% of new refrigerators sold in 2024 included built-in ice makers—but only about 40% of U.S. households had the necessary plumbing infrastructure for them.

Do All Fridges With Ice Makers Need Plumbing? The Clear Answer

No—but most full-size models do.

Here’s a quick-reference breakdown:

If your fridge has a water dispenser on the door, it almost always requires plumbing. On the other hand, models labeled “manual fill,” “no-plumb,” or “reservoir-based” do not.

For more context on appliance water systems, refer to Wikipedia’s overview on refrigeration .

How to Tell If Your Fridge Needs Plumbing

Before you buy or install, check these indicators:

1. Back Panel Inspection: Look for a water inlet valve (usually a small threaded connector near the bottom rear).
2. User Manual: Search for terms like “water line connection” or “requires plumbing.”
3. Model Number Lookup: Visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Samsung, LG, Whirlpool) and enter your model number—they often specify installation requirements.
4. Sales Description: Online listings will say “plumbed” or “non-plumbed” in the features.

🔧 Pro Tip: If you’re converting a non-plumbed fridge to a plumbed one (or vice versa), this isn’t recommended. The internal components differ significantly, and retrofitting can void warranties or cause leaks.

Installing a Plumbed Ice Maker: Step-by-Step

If you’ve chosen a plumbed model, here’s how to set it up safely:

Step 1: Locate Your Water Supply

• Find the nearest cold water line (usually under the kitchen sink).
• Ensure it’s within 6 feet of the fridge location for easy tubing.

Step 2: Shut Off Water & Install a T-Valve

• Turn off the main water supply.
• Install a ¼-inch saddle valve or push-fit T-connector (we recommend push-fit for reliability).

Step 3: Run the Water Line

• Use food-grade plastic or copper tubing (¼-inch diameter).
• Route it through cabinets or along baseboards—avoid sharp bends.

Step 4: Connect to Fridge

• Attach tubing to the fridge’s inlet valve (hand-tighten, then ¼ turn with pliers).
• Plug in the fridge and turn water back on.

Step 5: Flush the System

• Discard the first 2–3 batches of ice (about 1–2 gallons of water) to clear air and debris.

⚠️ Warning: Poor installation causes 70% of ice maker leaks, according to HomeAdvisor. If unsure, hire a licensed plumber ($150–$300 average cost).

Pros and Cons: Plumbed vs. Non-Plumbed Ice Makers

Choose plumbed if you want “set it and forget it” convenience. Go non-plumbed if you rent, lack water access, or prefer flexibility.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I add plumbing to a fridge that didn’t come with it?

A: Generally, no. Fridges are engineered for one system or the other. Attempting to modify may damage the unit or create safety hazards.

Q2: How often do I refill a non-plumbed ice maker?

A: Most hold 2–4 liters of water. At average use (1 tray/day), you’ll refill every 2–3 days.

Q3: Do plumbed fridges need a water filter?

A: Yes—most manufacturers require one to prevent scale buildup and ensure clean ice. Replace every 6 months.

Q4: Will a non-plumbed ice maker keep up with party demand?

A: Unlikely. They produce 6–12 cubes every 6–8 hours. For events, consider a standalone countertop ice machine (e.g., Nugget ice makers).

Q5: Can I disconnect plumbing if I move?

A: Yes! Turn off the water valve, disconnect the line, and cap both ends. Store the tubing for reinstallation.

Q6: Are there energy differences between the two types?

A: Minimal. The ice-making function uses similar power, but plumbed models may run slightly more often due to higher usage. Both meet ENERGY STAR standards if labeled.

Conclusion

So, do all fridges with ice makers need plumbing? Absolutely not—your choice depends on your lifestyle, kitchen setup, and how much ice you truly need.

• Choose plumbed for convenience, high output, and built-in water dispensers.
• Go non-plumbed for flexibility, lower cost, and no installation headaches.

Either way, you’ll enjoy frosty drinks without compromise.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s fridge-shopping! Tag them on Facebook, Pinterest, or Reddit—your next BBQ host will thank you.

Stay cool, stay informed—and never run out of ice again. ❄️