Do American Fridge Freezers Need To Be Plumbed In?

If you’ve ever shopped for a large refrigerator in the US—especially a side-by-side or French door model with a built-in ice maker or water dispenser—you’ve probably asked yourself: “Do American fridge freezers need to be plumbed in?” It’s a common question, especially for first-time buyers or those upgrading from a basic model. The short answer? It depends. But don’t worry—we’ll break it down clearly, so you know exactly what to expect before you buy or install.

What Does “Plumbed In” Mean for a Fridge?

“Plumbed in” means your refrigerator is connected directly to your home’s cold water supply line—usually via a small valve under your kitchen sink or behind the fridge. This water line feeds the ice maker and/or water dispenser, eliminating the need to manually refill a reservoir.

Not all American-style fridge freezers require plumbing, but most models with ice or water features do. If your fridge lacks these features, plumbing isn’t necessary.

💡 Fun fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, over 70% of refrigerators sold in the U.S. in 2024 included built-in ice makers—many of which require plumbing.

Which American Fridge Freezers Need Plumbing?

Models That Require Plumbing:

• Side-by-side refrigerators with water dispensers or automatic ice makers
• French door refrigerators with bottom freezers and ice/water features
• Built-in or panel-ready units designed for seamless kitchen integration

Models That Don’t Require Plumbing:

• Basic top-freezer or bottom-freezer units
• Fridges with manual ice trays (no automatic ice maker)
• Units with removable water tanks (common in some European-style models sold in the U.S.)

📊 Consumer Reports (2024) found that 68% of U.S. households with premium refrigerators reported using the water dispenser at least once daily—making plumbing a worthwhile investment for many.

Pros and Cons of Plumbing Your American Fridge Freezer

Step-by-Step: How to Install a Water Line for Your Fridge

If your model needs plumbing, here’s how it’s typically done (always consider hiring a licensed plumber if you’re not experienced):

1. Turn off the main water supply to avoid leaks.
2. Locate the nearest cold water pipe—usually under the kitchen sink or behind the wall where the fridge sits.
3. Install a saddle valve or T-connector to tap into the cold water line (use ¼-inch copper or braided stainless steel tubing).
4. Run the tubing to the back of the fridge (leave 6–8 inches of slack for movement).
5. Connect the line to the fridge’s water inlet valve (usually labeled).
6. Turn the water back on, check for leaks, and flush the system for 2–3 minutes to clear debris.
7. Replace the water filter (if included) and wait 24 hours for the ice maker to prime.

⚠️ Safety Tip: Use lead-free, NSF-certified tubing to ensure safe drinking water. The EPA recommends replacing plastic lines every 5 years due to cracking risks.

For more on home water systems, see Wikipedia’s overview of residential plumbing .

What If You Don’t Want to Plum In Your Fridge?

Good news: Some American-style fridge freezers offer non-plumbed alternatives:

• Water tank models: Brands like Samsung and LG offer select French door fridges with removable internal water reservoirs (typically 2–3 liters capacity). You refill manually every 1–2 weeks.
• Ice maker add-ons: A few brands sell accessory ice trays that mimic automatic production (though output is limited).
• Disable the ice maker: If your fridge is plumbed but you don’t use it, simply turn off the ice maker via settings—no water needed.

However, keep in mind: non-plumbed models usually produce less ice and lack the convenience of chilled, filtered water at the door.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation

• Skipping the filter: Always install the manufacturer-recommended water filter to prevent scale buildup and improve taste.
• Using cheap plastic tubing: It can kink or crack—opt for braided stainless steel for durability.
• Ignoring shut-off valves: Always install an inline shut-off valve behind the fridge for easy maintenance.
• Forgetting to level the fridge: An unlevel unit can cause the ice maker to malfunction—even with perfect plumbing.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use my American fridge freezer without plumbing it in?

A: Yes—but only if it doesn’t have an ice maker or water dispenser, or if those features can be disabled. Some models with internal water tanks don’t require plumbing.

Q2: How much does it cost to plumb in a fridge freezer in the U.S.?

A: Professional installation typically costs $100–$300, depending on distance from the water source and whether new lines are needed. DIY kits cost $20–$50.

Q3: Do all side-by-side fridges need plumbing?

A: Most do—especially if they include a water dispenser. However, a few rare models offer optional non-plumbed operation (check the manual or specs before buying).

Q4: What happens if I don’t connect the water line but leave the ice maker on?

A: The ice maker will run but produce no ice, potentially causing motor strain or error codes. Always turn off the ice maker in settings if not plumbed.

Q5: Can I add plumbing later if I change my mind?

A: Yes! As long as there’s access to a cold water line nearby. Retrofitting may require drilling through cabinets or flooring, so plan ahead.

Q6: Does plumbing affect energy efficiency?

A: Not directly—but a well-installed, plumbed fridge with a functioning ice maker can reduce trips to the freezer, indirectly supporting efficiency through consistent door closure.

Final Thoughts

So, do American fridge freezers need to be plumbed in? The answer hinges on your model and lifestyle. If you love the convenience of chilled water and automatic ice, plumbing is well worth it. But if you prefer simplicity or rent a home where modifications aren’t allowed, non-plumbed or tank-based models are excellent alternatives.

Before you buy, always check the product specifications—look for phrases like “requires water line connection” or “includes internal water reservoir.” And when in doubt, consult an appliance specialist or plumber.

💬 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s shopping for a new fridge! Whether they’re a DIY enthusiast or a first-time homeowner, this info could save them time, money, and a soggy kitchen floor.

Stay cool, stay informed—and enjoy that perfect glass of ice water!