View Full Version : Refrigerator Water Hose
lenny644
09-29-2009, 11:19 AM
Can someone recommend a good refrigerator water hose that will not give my water and ice a bad taste? I have tried one from Whirlpool (7' Industrial Grade Refrigerator Water Hose, Part #8212490RC) and one from FlowMaster (5’ Length Lead Free Flexible PVC Water Line, #IPN05). My wife says both cause the water to taste bad.
I do not want to use the ¼” copper or plastic tubing hook-up method. I have searched forums and found conflicting recommendations on milky white colored polyethylene, clear, stainless steel, neoprene rubber, clear plastic, braided small rigid plastic.
Please help. Lenny
:confused:
SteveW
09-29-2009, 08:34 PM
And why don't you want to use copper?
Plastic lines may/will eventually crack. Copper is the "gold standard" for ice maker hookups and not particularly difficult to use. No taste effects either.
jadnashua
09-30-2009, 07:19 PM
Seems the key to using copper is a BIG loop behind the frig - maybe an extra 15' or more in a big loop. Then, when you pull the frig out (or push it back initially), it acts like a big spring with no tension on the fittings. Try to do this with a short piece, and you might end up kinking it or putting enough torque on things to damage it or the (sometimes) plastic fittings on the frig.
johnjh2o1
09-30-2009, 07:25 PM
Why not use PEX? It's flexible and will not kink as easy as copper.
John
http://www.terrylove.com/images/icemaker_box_pex.jpg
jadnashua
10-01-2009, 10:55 AM
Suppose you could, but the line is already pretty small, and the ID of pex is smaller than the equivalent copper. Copper isn't affected by UV, pex is, and it has been said mice like to chew on pex. WIth it exposed in a hidden, warm environment, I think copper is better.
SteveW
10-01-2009, 04:03 PM
Are you still there, Lenny???
Are you still there, Lenny???
Install an inline carbon filter or replace the wife. The carbon filter may be cheaper in the short term but if this is a chronic problem replacing the Mrs may be cheaper in the long run.
;)
lenny644
10-02-2009, 06:37 AM
I saw a Whirlpool hose advertised online that was the predecessor to their newest 7' Industrial Grade Refrigerator Water Hose, Part #8212490RC. This pervious version stainless steel braided type says, “Special inner lining will not alter ice or water quality.” I guess I’ll try that or the ¼” Pex tube.
Install a braided stainless steel icemaker line with a carbon inline filter and all will be well...
I would also check the water pressure while your at it...it has nothing to do with the taste but is a good thing to check...Just P/M for your home...
Low*s has an inexpensive inline filter that should last 2-3 years as it is supposed to last 5...I wouldn't leave it on for 5...
lenny644
10-02-2009, 12:11 PM
OK. I’ll put the stainless steel hose on first. If it’s still not satisfactory, I’ll insert the inline filter from Lowe’s.
Thanks
SteveW
10-02-2009, 05:50 PM
Lenny,
You realize that a "stainless steel hose" actually has a rubber or plastic interior which is what actually holds the water, right? The braided stainless steel exterior is designed to protect the flexible rubber or plastic tube inside.
http://www.terrylove.com/images/icemaker_box.jpg
lenny644
10-03-2009, 07:47 AM
Yes. The Whirlpool hose I purchased on **** is the predecessor to Whirlpool's newest 7' Industrial Grade Refrigerator Water Hose. This earlier model that I purchased says on the package, “Special inner lining will not alter ice or water quality.” I hope they're right. If not, I will install the inline filter that lasts 5 years.