How to Up-Keep Your Own Older Appliances

3 Tips To Prevent Your Icemaker From Leaking

If your refrigerator came with an ice maker built-in, you probably love the convenience of being able to have ice whenever you want it. However, you should know that ice maker leaks can cause serious problems. If your ice maker leaks, it can cause a lot of water to run out near your refrigerator, which can cause damage to your walls, your floors, your cabinets and any other surrounding materials. It can also cause mold and mildew to grow in your home if you aren't careful and can leave a musty odor.

These potential problems don't mean that you have to give up on using your ice maker, however. Instead, you simply have to take steps to prevent ice maker leaks. Follow these tips, and you should be able to use your ice maker with no problems.

1. Use Copper Tubing

In many homes, a small plastic tube runs from the ice maker to the home water line. Although many people use plastic tubes with no problems, they can be more susceptible to small leaks. Therefore, it's generally best to opt for a stronger, more resilient tube that is less likely to develop holes. One better option is to use copper tubing, which is still soft and flexible but is less likely to leak. You can purchase a new tube from any store that sells appliance-related accessories, or you can have an appliance repair professional like those at Appliance Doctor install it for you.

2. Install a Flood Alarm

Did you know that you can purchase a flood alarm from any home improvement store? This flood alarm can be installed and positioned near the back of your refrigerator, close to the water line. If the alarm detects any moisture from your ice maker's water line, it will sound an alarm to alert you to the problem. This will allow you to call an appliance repair professional as soon as possible so that you can take care of the problem before the leak causes any serious property damage.

3. Install a Shut-Off Valve

If there isn't already one in place, it's a good idea to install a shut-off valve that will allow you to quickly and easily shut off the water supply to your ice maker's water line. Then, if there is a leak, you can shut off the water without having to find a way to cover up the leak.

As you can see, there are a few steps that you can take to prevent your ice maker from leaking. Follow these tips, and you can use your ice maker without any added worries about water-related property damage.


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