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View Full Version : Icemaker supply tube freezing


peterparch
10-12-2008, 04:57 PM
I have a problem with water freezing in the refill tube that passes through the back wall into the freezer compartment. I was able to thaw the blockage and get the icemaker working ok, but it became frozen again within a few days. When this happens, pressure builds up in the water supply line causing the line to burst apart at the joint where the supply line joins the tube that passes through the back of the freezer compartment. The tubes are held together with a spring clamp at this point.
When the supply line come apart, water spills onto the floor whenever the icemaker calls for water. The first time that this happened it was not detected for several days.By that time many gallons of spilled water had leaked under the adjoining hardwood floor resulting in extensive damage.
Needless to say I do not want that to happen again and would appreciate suggestions for:
-preventing the supply tube from freezing in the first place and
-preventing the supply line from busting apart if it does. The water supply comes from the household water system which is regulated at 45 psi.

DIY Guy
10-14-2008, 09:58 PM
Generally, this is caused by a leaking water inlet valve. No water should be in the tube where it intersects the freezer. When there is water, it is usually because the water inlet valve is not sealing completely. Like a leaky faucet, a few drips are getting through and the slow moving water is freezing.
Replacement of the inlet valve should take care of it.

Also, you can turn down the pressure on the supply line as you don't need that much water pressure to fill an ice cube tray.