Q: Why does my fridge water line freeze even in Texas?
A: Even mild Texas winters can drop attic temperatures below freezing. Copper lines conduct cold, especially when routed through uninsulated attic spaces. The long copper run from your tee under the sink or laundry area up and across the attic is exposed to these temperatures, which leads to freezing.
Q: Can switching to PEX help prevent freezing?
A: Yes. PEX tubing flexes and handles freezing temperatures better than copper. It’s a great upgrade for attics or exposed spaces. PEX also expands slightly if water inside freezes, reducing the chance of bursting.
Q: What’s the best way to reroute the line using PEX?
A: Your plan is solid. You can sweat in a copper tee fitting in your laundry area and transition to PEX using a threaded or push-fit adapter. Run the PEX up the wall, across the attic, and down the wall behind your fridge into a recessed outlet box with a quarter-turn shut-off valve. From there, connect a flexible braided line to your refrigerator.
Q: What fittings and tools do I need for this project?
A: Homeowners typically use the clamp-ring (crimp) style PEX system. You’ll need:
- PEX-A or PEX-B tubing rated for potable water
- Crimp or clamp rings with a ratcheting crimp tool
- Transition fittings from copper to PEX (sweat or threaded type)
- PEX tee fittings and elbows for your route
- A refrigerator outlet box with an integrated shut-off valve
Q: Should I insulate the new PEX line?
A: Absolutely. Even though PEX resists freezing, insulation adds protection. Use foam sleeves or wrap the PEX with attic-rated insulation to prevent future freeze-ups.
Q: Could I connect from the garage water heater instead?
A: You could, but your first idea is cleaner. Connecting near the laundry area keeps your plumbing shorter and more direct, reducing both installation time and freeze risk.
For more DIY guides and plumbing tips, visit Plumbing 101. It’s your go-to resource for homeowner plumbing projects and upgrades.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.
