Refrigerators are one of the best modern conveniences of our time. It significantly increases the shelf-life of perishable foods, allowing us to store more and spend our time doing things besides daily trips to the market. Without even thinking about it, we have filtered water and ice on-demand 24/7. However, not thinking about it can cause us to ignore warning signs this modern convenience is about to be very inconvenient. When was the last time you examined your water supply line?
- Look for Signs of Leakage
In case the refrigerator supply line fails, you will see visual cues. These include a small puddle under the fridge and a malfunctioning cooling system. While most people might neglect the minor water damage by simply wiping off the floor every time, little do they know that this can lead to cracked paint, swelling along the baseboard, water stains, and most importantly promoting mildew and mold growth.
- Turn Off Water Supply and Unplug the Refrigerator
Once the leakage is confirmed, it is time to move to step two “locate the source of the water damage and unplug the refrigerator.” Start by turning off the valve that supplies water to the refrigerator. Typically, you can find the valve behind the refrigerator or under the sink. While doing so, make sure to unplug the refrigerator from the electric socket so that water and electricity don’t mix.
- Remove the Damaged Refrigerator Supply Line
The valve that supplies water to the refrigerator is usually secured by a supply line and a compression nut. Therefore, to remove the failed refrigerator supply lines, all you need to do is use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nut and pull out the pipe. Once the supply line is disconnected inspect it for any breaks or tears and jump to the next step.
- Invest in Braided Lines
In order to determine the correct length, measure the failed refrigerator supply line. Now go to a reliable hardware store and purchase a braided supply line. Manufactured using stainless steel, braided lines are a very durable, flexible, and attractive-looking option as they won’t break easily and prevent the supply line from kinking.
- Check Regularly
Make sure to keep an eye out for water damage signs such as droplets and puddles. In case there’s still a leak, get it inspected by an expert as soon as possible. On the flip side, if the floor is completely dry, give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.
Reach Out to a Professional
When installing a new refrigerator supply line, it is essential to make sure that the job is done properly. This is primarily because improper installation is one of the most prominent causes of leaking refrigerator supply lines. Even though the internet is filled with DIYs that make water damage restoration seem like a piece of cake,. we highly recommend contacting the professionals at STOP Restoration of Spokane to do the job for you. With over four decades of experience in the industry, they're trained to fix it all. So, no matter how easy it might seem, call a professional for help before the occasional puddle under the fridge leads to mold and water damage.
