How to Repair the Plastic Hose on an Ice Maker
- 1). Measure the outside diameter of the plastic hose with a tape measure to determine the size of the compression fitting needed. Purchase a compression fitting based on this measurement.
- 2). Turn off the water supply to the ice maker using the cut-off valve located at the water source, typically beneath your kitchen sink.
- 3). Remove the plastic hose from the refrigerator with an adjustable wrench. Place your thumb over the opening in one side of the hose, and then fill the hose with water. Watch for the escape of water from the side of the hose to determine the location of the break in the hose that is causing the leak. Mark this break with an oil pencil, and then empty the water from the hose.
- 4). Use a utility knife to cut the hose surrounding the broken area. Make the cut directly across the hose, leaving the end of each piece straight and level.
- 5). Place a brass insert from the compression fitting into each end of the hose. Push the insert into the hose as far as possible, until the plastic sleeve on the end of the insert overlaps the outside of the hose and the end of the hose rests on the sleeve base.
- 6). Lower a nut from each end of the fitting over each end of the plastic hose, sliding it down the hose past the sleeve and insert.
- 7). Place each end of the plastic hose into opposite ends of the compression fitting so that the threads of the fitting slide over the sleeve, creating a seal. Push the nuts up to the base of the threads, and tighten them into place using the wrench. This will make the seal over the hose even more effective.
- 8). Place a strip of Teflon tape around the threads of the plastic hose connector to prevent leaks from the connection point. Wrap the tape around the threads for three revolutions, and mold it tightly in place so that the threads are still useable though sealed. Reinstall the plastic hose into the ice maker. Restore the water flow and use the ice maker normally. Watch for any further signs of leakage. If leakage continues, replace the hose.
