Dishwasher and ice maker line failures are more subtle to detect because they are hidden from view. Water, water everywhere is NOT a good thing when a water line fails. So, the “when to replace it” answer is every 5 years.
As refrigerators age, the components within them, including the water line, may begin to wear out or degrade, increasing the likelihood of malfunctions or failures. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for identifying potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or replacements.
To prevent unexpected water damage, follow these recommended replacement intervals: Braided Stainless Steel: Replace every 10 years. PVC: Replace every 5-8 years. Copper: While these can last up to 50 years, inspect regularly and replace if any signs of corrosion or damage are present.
How Often Should You Replace Your Refrigerator Water Line? There's no set time frame for replacing your refrigerator water line, but it's generally a good idea to have it checked every few years. However, if you notice any of the signs listed above, it's a good idea to have the water line inspected as soon as possible.
If you've previously had a refrigerator with an ice maker or water dispenser in the same location and the water line connection is still in working condition, you're in luck. All you need to do is reconnect to your new model using the existing supply tubing.
Refrigerator water line repair costs $140 to $200 on average for replacing the water dispenser and ice-maker tubing. If the fridge isn't near a sink, then replacing the water supply line costs $275 to $550 depending on if the pipes are plastic or copper.
Like other systems in the home, water lines are not meant to last forever and will need to be replaced. To ensure that your plumbing lasts as long as possible, you can schedule regular plumbing inspections and ensure that you get timely repairs as soon as you notice any issues.
Main water line replacement costs an average of $1,713 but ranges from $646 to $2,824, depending on the length and depth of the line, materials, and method. A plumber can assess your project.
Ice maker: You can't make ice without water! The water line feeds tap water into your freezer directly so that its ice maker can work. Water dispenser: You also get chilled water through the water line as processed by your refrigerator. Defrosting: Some refrigerators use the water line to defrost them as well.
If installation and connection to the water line was included in the purchase, then you normally would hire a plumber to make the connection to the water line.
Research says that you should do some intense maintenance every six to 12 months on your water line. If you don't, this can cause a buildup of bacteria. Sometimes even a gradual buildup of calcium in your water dispenser. This can slow down the flow of water and make it less cooling.
Experts claim that you should also replace your refrigerator water line hose at least every three to five years. That's because, over time, your hose can slowly fill with bacteria and calcium, leading not only to sanitary issues, but also to blockages and — you guessed it — burst pipes.
Ice machines have quickly become a staple in both homes and businesses alike. While it can be convenient to have available ice at the touch of a button, the truth is that these machines simply don't last forever. The average lifespan of an ice maker is 5 years.
The job of a water line connection is similar in an ice machine and other appliances, such as a refrigerator. The line connects to the wall and the plumbing system beyond, and every batch of ice cubes starts with the water your tubing will pull into the ice machine.
The general rule of thumb is to replace all your supply line hoses every 5 years as a preventative measure to protect your home against any potential leaks. But since braided supply lines have a rubber core, we recommend that they can be replaced every 10 years.
The Lifespan of a Water Line
Typically, main water line pipes last decades. Some experts estimate that they last around 70 years, though this can vary from development to development. If your home is considerably dated–if it was built in or before the 1950s or even the 1980s–you should have its water line inspected.
Perhaps the water pressure in your house isn't great or your water supply isn't healthy. If you find yourself in either of these situations, know that it is possible to replace a water main – the main pipe that supplies your water – entirely by yourself. You can also save yourself a lot of money in the process.
While it's estimated that PVC pipes will last about 100 years (!), various factors – such as what they're exposed to and how they're installed – will determine exactly how long they can survive. Luckily though, there are things you can do to help prevent deterioration and prolong their lifespan.
Water pump lifespan
A properly installed water pump has an average lifespan of 10 to 20 years. However, it's not uncommon for professionals to deal with pumps over 30 years old. Different factors affect the pump's longevity, such as usage, motor type, installation quality, and maintenance levels.
Copper and plastic are two of the most common materials when it comes to ice maker water lines. Copper lines are durable and can withstand all of the pressure from the water. They also last much longer and are resistant to corrosion and can be easily managed.
Control Board. The control board is one of the most expensive refrigerator parts to fix, at between $80 and $800, because no part of the appliance can function without it.
Fixing your ice maker line costs $100 to $200.