Installing 1/4'' water valve/ self tapping or saddle valve. For Icemaker?

Question

I need to install a 1/4 inch output water valve to supply my icemaker. The only close water supply is from a 3/4 inch polybutelene pipe or what appears to be a 1 inch galvinized pipe. Most kits come with a self tapping or pirceing valve that is made to tap into water supply. Can I use this valve for the polybutelene pipe? Should I, or can I drill a small hole in the galvinized pipe, then tap it? Is there a valve that will tap polybutelene safley?  And if so can i get from local hardware store like Home Depot? It would be much eaiser for me to tap the polybutelene being that it is much closer to the fridge. Can you please tell me if this is possible and how?

Jeff J · Accepted Answer

You can drill the galvanized pipe with the water turned off. Then use the saddle valve. Teflon tape can fix a drip but it should seal jusy fine.

I used plastic line for my ice maker lines for 10 years. 

Mount it to the back of the fridge with tape so it doesn't get ran over when you slide the refer back.

It's best to get a three way valve and go from the cold supply under the sink and then behind the cabinets or in the back of them to the refer. But I have used tons of saddle valves and saddle patches for leaks. They work just fine.

? · Answer

Yes you can use a self tapping saddle valve on plastic but do not over tighten it or it will leak if possible it would be better to drill a hole in the pipe and use a saddle connector then put a regular valve in the connection

Perry G · Answer

Check with village for a proper installation to meet code. Plastic and saddle valves won't meet code I most places.  Do it right the first time and bite the bullet.

donnyv · Answer

stay copper due to the plastic not being able take  jolts and pressure and chemical build up

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Installing 1/4'' water valve/ self tapping or saddle valve. For Icemaker?

4 Answers