If it’s time for refrigerator repair or replacement, you need to find the refrigerator water line shut-off valve. There’s no need to shut off the water to the entire kitchen, which can be an inconvenience for you and the family. Instead, control the flow to the fridge by shutting off the water at the site prior to a repair or the installation of a new replacement fridge.
When Do You Need to Shut Off the Refrigerator Water Line?
These are the common scenarios where a homeowner will need to find and shut off the refrigerator water line:
- Refrigerator repair
- Refrigerator removal or installation
- Icemaker or water dispenser repair
If you notice a leak around your refrigerator, you likely want to shut off the water supply as quickly as possible to avoid water damage. Get more information on why your refrigerator may be leaking water to find a solution.
Being able to shut off the water line that connects directly to the fridge, rather than the water supply to your entire kitchen or home, will allow you to perform repair or installation tasks without disrupting all other home activities. This means you can get your refrigerator back in order while people continue to use the sink, bathroom and even run the dishwasher.
Where to Find the Refrigerator Water Line Shut-off Valve
While the location of the water shut-off valve varies from fridge model to fridge model, and home to home, there are a few specific places you are likely to find it:
- Hidden in a box or metal guard at the water source
- Located near the cold water supply at the bottom of the kitchen sink
- In the basement
- In a crawl space
- In the cabinet next to the refrigerator
Still struggling to locate the shut-off valve? Pull out the refrigerator and follow the water supply line from the fridge to the source. You should find the shut-off valve when you arrive at the source.
Once you locate the refrigerator water line shut-off valve, pause. Prior to shutting off the valve, it’s a good idea to turn off the icemaker because otherwise, it will continue to cycle on, which can damage the valve. When you’re ready to shut off the valve, simply turn it in a clockwise direction until it stops.
Keep in mind, the team at Mr. Rooter® Plumbing is always available to help you with any of your kitchen appliance plumbing repair needs, including locating the refrigerator water line shut-off valve. Call your local Mr. Rooter at 855-591-0128, or request an estimate today.
If you suspect your refrigerator is the source of the problem, we recommend Mr. Appliance for quality refrigerator repair and replacement. Just like Mr. Rooter, Mr. Appliance is part of Neighborly’s community of home service professionals. You can count on them for all your home appliance repair needs.