Refrigerator Water Hose

lenny644 · Sep 29, 2009

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 (5â€™ 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 Â¼â€ 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

SteveW · Sep 29, 2009

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.

Sponsor · 2022-01-29T12:20:58-0800

Jadnashua · Sep 30, 2009

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 · Sep 30, 2009

Why not use PEX? It's flexible and will not kink as easy as copper.

John

Jadnashua · Oct 1, 2009

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 · Oct 1, 2009

Are you still there, Lenny???

Agu · Oct 1, 2009

SteveW said:
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 · Oct 2, 2009

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 Â¼” Pex tube.

Cass · Oct 2, 2009

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 · Oct 2, 2009

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 · Oct 2, 2009

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.

lenny644 · Oct 3, 2009

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.

Refrigerator Water Hose

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