How much does refrigerator water line installation cost?
How much does refrigerator water line installation cost?
$150 – $200 average cost (parts + labor)
Average cost to install a water line for a refrigerator
Refrigerator water line installation costs $150 to $200 on average, depending on the water line material, local plumbing labor rates, and the distance from the fridge to the nearest water pipe. Costs are higher if the project requires running the water line a long distance or through a complex home layout.
Many refrigerators have a built-in ice maker, water dispenser, or both. To take advantage of these features, you must connect a water line to the refrigerator.
| National Average Cost | $175 |
| Minimum Cost | $75 |
| Maximum Cost | $400 |
| Average Range | $150 to $200 |
What affects the cost to install a fridge water line?
Several factors affect the cost of refrigerator water line installation:
Distance from plumbing lines
The distance from the refrigerator to the nearest water supply pipe is one of the biggest factors impacting the total cost, as the plumber will need to tap into a water pipe to run a new line to the refrigerator.
Labor and material costs are higher if there is no water pipe in a convenient location near the fridge or if the plumber must cut through the floor, walls, or cabinets to run the new water line.
Materials
The water line material also affects the cost. There are three different piping materials commonly used for refrigerator water lines:
Plastic / PEX: Plastic water lines are the most budget-friendly but also the least durable. Plastic can also leave an odd taste in the water, especially over time.
Braided stainless steel: Braided stainless steel water lines cost more than plastic but are the most durable and reliable option. Steel also does not cause an unusual taste in the water.
Copper: Copper tubing costs the most and is durable, but copper lines can kink.
In addition to the water line, the project also requires connectors and other fittings. Some lines come with connectors pre-installed on each end, while others require separate connectors made of plastic, steel, or copper.
Labor
Plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour on average to run a water line to a refrigerator, depending on their experience level and your location. However, even if the job only takes one hour, most plumbers charge a service call fee or minimum fee of $150 to $200.
FAQs about refrigerator water lines
What size is a refrigerator water line?
Most refrigerator water lines are 1/4" in diameter and connect with 1/4" x 1/4" compression fittings. In rare cases, a very large refrigerator may use a 3/8" diameter line. Check your refrigerator user manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm the correct water line size for your specific model.
Do refrigerators need a water line?
No, not all refrigerators need a water line. However, if the refrigerator has an ice maker or water dispenser, it requires a water line for those features to work. A fridge can't make ice without a water line to deliver a continuous supply of water.
Getting quotes for refrigerator water line installation
Follow these tips when hiring a plumber near you to install a water line for your refrigerator:
Get multiple estimates to compare prices and materials.
Check out reviews of plumbers on HomeGuide and Google.
Select a licensed, insured company that has been in business for 5+ years.
Get a full breakdown of the labor and material costs involved.
Avoid selecting the cheapest quote, as it may indicate low-quality work.
Ask for a written warranty on the parts and labor.
Questions to ask plumbers
When evaluating plumbers, ask these questions to ensure you hire the best pro for the job:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured?
Which water line material do you recommend for my refrigerator?
Can you provide a written contract showing labor and material costs?
How long will the job take?
Are there any unexpected issues that could come up that would increase the cost?
Will this project require a permit?
Do you offer a warranty? If so, what does it cover?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.