Introduction
If you’ve noticed a decrease in water pressure from your refrigerator’s water line, then it may be time to give it a good cleaning. Not only can dirt and debris build up inside the line, but calcium deposits can also form if the water is hard. Fortunately, cleaning your refrigerator water line is relatively easy and can help restore proper flow. Here, we’ll explain how to clean your refrigerator water line step-by-step.
Use a Cleaning Brush to Scrub the Line
The first step in cleaning your refrigerator water line is to use a cleaning brush to scrub the interior of the line. This will help remove any built-up dirt and debris that could be blocking the flow of water. You’ll need the following supplies:
- Cleaning brush
- Mild detergent
- Hot water
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator.
- Mix a mild detergent and hot water in a bucket.
- Dip the cleaning brush into the mixture and begin scrubbing the interior of the line.
- Continue scrubbing until all dirt and debris have been removed.
- Rinse the line with clean water and reconnect it to the refrigerator.
Flush the Line with Vinegar and Hot Water
The next step is to flush the line with vinegar and hot water. This will help dissolve any calcium deposits that may have formed due to hard water. You’ll need the following supplies:
- White vinegar
- Hot water
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator.
- Pour 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of hot water into a bucket.
- Dip the end of the water line into the mixture and allow it to sit for 15 minutes.
- Remove the water line from the mixture and rinse it with clean water.
- Reconnect the water line to the refrigerator.
Replace the Filter Regularly
It’s important to replace your refrigerator’s water filter regularly in order to ensure proper flow. Most filters should be replaced every 6 months or when the flow of water begins to slow down. You’ll need the following supplies:
- New water filter
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Locate the water filter in your refrigerator.
- Remove the old filter and discard it.
- Insert the new filter into the housing and twist it into place.
- Run the water line for several minutes to flush out any air bubbles.
Check for Blockages in the Line
The next step is to check for blockages in the line. This can easily be done by running a wire through the line. You’ll need the following supplies:
- Wire
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator.
- Insert the wire into the end of the water line.
- Push the wire through the line until it reaches the other end.
- Pull the wire out of the line and inspect it for any signs of blockage.
- If there are blockages, use a cleaning brush to remove them.
- Reconnect the water line to the refrigerator.
Disconnect and Clean the Exterior of the Line
It’s also important to disconnect and clean the exterior of the line. This will help prevent any buildup of dirt and debris, which could potentially clog the line. You’ll need the following supplies:
- Cleaning brush
- Mild detergent
- Hot water
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator.
- Mix a mild detergent and hot water in a bucket.
- Dip the cleaning brush into the mixture and begin scrubbing the exterior of the line.
- Continue scrubbing until all dirt and debris have been removed.
- Rinse the line with clean water and reconnect it to the refrigerator.
Use a Specialized Refrigerator Line Cleaner
Finally, you may want to consider using a specialized refrigerator line cleaner. These products are designed to quickly and effectively remove calcium deposits and other buildup. You’ll need the following supplies:
- Specialized refrigerator line cleaner
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the water line from the refrigerator.
- Follow the instructions on the package to mix the product with water.
- Dip the end of the water line into the mixture and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time.
- Remove the water line from the mixture and rinse it with clean water.
- Reconnect the water line to the refrigerator.
Ensure Proper Flow by Testing the Pressure of the Line
The last step is to test the pressure of the line to ensure that proper flow has been restored. You’ll need the following supplies:
- Water pressure gauge
Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Connect the water pressure gauge to the end of the water line.
- Turn on the water and allow it to run for several minutes.
- Check the pressure gauge to see if it’s within the normal range.
Conclusion
Cleaning your refrigerator water line is a simple process that can help restore proper flow. To do this, you’ll need to use a cleaning brush to scrub the interior of the line, flush the line with vinegar and hot water, replace the filter regularly, check for blockages in the line, disconnect and clean the exterior of the line, use a specialized refrigerator line cleaner, and ensure proper flow by testing the pressure of the line. Following these steps will help keep your refrigerator’s water line in top condition.
